How to Maintain an in-Ground Home Pool Year-Round

Pool owners living in non-seasonal climates have the opportunity to keep their pools open all year-round. To do so, it doesn't take any special circumstances or change in routine. Regular pool maintenance stays the same, regardless of the time of year. The only difference in keeping the pool open year-round is the need to stay disciplined enough to consistently add chlorine, run your filter and adjust the water chemistry as needed. It will cost more money to keep a pool open year-round.

Testing strips

Instructions

- 1
  Test your water with testing strips at least twice per week. Testing strips will measure chlorine, pH, alkalinity and chlorine stabilizer readings. Knowing what's needed in your pool will keep it clean. Add chemicals only as needed as per the specific chemical's instructions. Chlorine will be the most frequently-used chemical. Dosages will vary based on pool size.
- 2
  Empty skimmer baskets once per week, and vacuum when you see dirt and debris settling on the pool bottom. You can never vacuum the pool too much. This dirt that settles to the ground contributes to cloudy pool water.
- 3
  Backwash your pool filter when the pressure gauges rises 8 to 10 pounds per square inch above its normal operating range. Backwashing methods will vary based on filter type and normal operating ranges vary based on filter sizes.
- 4
  Skim the top of the pool with a skimmer net. Do this every few days or as needed. Shock your pool once per month by adding 1 gallon of liquid chlorine for every 10,000 gallons of water.

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