How to Keep a Freshwater Swimming Pool Clean

Circulation

• Water circulation is one of the most basic yet essential factors to maintaining a clean swimming pool. Every large pool is equipped with a pump, which relies on a series of pipes to direct the pool's water into an external filter system. When functioning properly, the pump and filter work in tandem to remove the buildup of any dirt or debris within your pool. It is important to note the pump does not run automatically or constantly, so it is up to you to control the run time. This time varies based on many different variables, including the pool size, its location, and the size of the pump itself.

Filtering

• The pool filter takes over as soon as the water completes its journey through the tunnels and tubes of the pumping system. A total of three primary filters exist on the consumer market today, each of which relies on different materials to separate dirt and debris from the pool water. Sand filters use fine, gritty granules of sand to effectively clear the water of any dirt. Cartridge filters absorb debris through an interchangeable cartridge, but these cartridges require more maintenance than other filters. The third type of pool filter is a diatomaceous earth filter, also known as a DE filter. This filter relies on a naturally formed sedimentary rock to maintain a clean swimming environment.

Water Testing and pH Balancing

• The pH and alkalinity levels of your swimming pool need to be tested two to three times per week, depending on the size of your freshwater pool, in order to maintain peak cleanliness. Test strips can be purchased in major retail stores, as well as specialty pool and spa stores. The tests let you determine these levels within 30 seconds. Other levels, such as the amount of calcium and chlorine, also can be detected through a professional test strip. An appropriate pH level falls within the range of 7.2 to 7.6, while your pool's total alkalinity should be no more than 120 to 150 parts per million.

Care and Maintenance

• Ongoing care and maintenance also helps maintain a clean and sanitary freshwater swimming pool. Use a handheld pool skimmer to remove any large pieces of debris before they reach your filter to ensure the longevity of the pool's pump and filter systems. Protecting your pool's water with a canvas cover when the pool is not in use is another technique, and it can be done in a matter of minutes with the right-size canvas.