Mike Sterling
While most of the country is buried under two feet of snow, Phoenix residents are thinking about putting on bathing suits and jumping into their pools.
With our short desert winter only a memory, it’s time to prepare your pool for the swim season. Most of us want to check only the pool temperature before sliding in for a swim. However, there are many other crucial checks to be made before family fun time begins.
A crucial area most people do not think about when getting their pools ready is the area around their pool. We recommend cleaning up plant debris in the area around your pool deck. Pruning overgrown trees and hedges, which may be hanging over your pool, also is important. Virtually any yard debris, with the potential to fall into your pool, should be eliminated.
Now that the yard debris is cleaned up, you will need to check your pool’s filtration system. It is a good idea to run your filter system in an effort to ensure the equipment is functioning properly and the pressure is within the manufacturer’s specified range. Depending on the type of filter system you have, it may need to be cleaned or backwashed. Don’t forget to add Diatomaceous Earth, or DE, per the manufacturer’s recommendations, on those types of filters.
Arizona is known for having hard water. So, you will want to check the chemical balance of your pool water. The mineral build up in your water will prevent the chemicals from doing their job. If you are a do-it-yourself pool maintenance person, in order to check your pool water’s total dissolved solids (TDS), simply purchase a kit at your local pool supply store. If your pool water tests with a high level of TDS, it can appear cloudy and throw the pH balance off. It will be necessary to drain all or part of the water and refill. If TDS levels are within range, check the pH balance, chlorine and salt levels in the water. Consult your pool manual to ensure proper pH, chlorine and salt levels.
Of course, safety in and around your pool is the primary priority. When children are around, always make sure an adult stays close and is always alert to what is happening. Teach children to swim, or at least to float on their backs. In addition, it is a good idea to review pool rules with children at the beginning of each swim season, such as staying away from pool drains and other places where they could become caught. Also, don’t forget lots of sunscreen, which should be applied frequently.
For more information, or to schedule a free pool inspection, please contact Mike Sterling, owner of Sterling Pools, at (480) 241-4206.