Keeping the Pool Clean

• To maintain a safe and enjoyable swimming experience for yourself and your family you will need to maintain the proper mix of chemicals. Chlorine is essential for any pool, as it will oxidize the contaminants that would otherwise inhibit the safety and fun of your pool. If everything is working properly, the chlorine will burn off the dirt and other contaminants, and you should not notice a strong chlorine odor when you approach the pool. If you do notice a marked chlorine odor, that is a sign your pool needs to have a shock treatment applied. Be sure to keep a supply of shock treatment and chlorine on hand so you can adjust the water chemistry of your pool as needed.
  
  

Changing the pH

• No matter what type of swimming pool you have, it is important to maintain the proper pH level. The ideal pH level for a swimming pool is between 7.2 and 7.6, so it is important to test the pool water before adding any additional chemicals. By keeping the pH level of the pool water slightly on the alkaline side, you will help the chemicals you do add do a more effective job. Water chemistry varies quite a bit according to location, so do not assume that the pH level of your neighbor's pool will be reflected in your own. Before adding any additional chemical treatments, it is important to test the pH level of your own pool water and adjust it as needed.
  
  

Keeping Algae at Bay

• The combination of bright sunlight and fresh water is the perfect medium for the growth of algae, so it is important for pool owners to have a supply of algae-destroying chemicals on hand. Pool owners can help keep algae problems at bay by keeping their pools covered when not in use, but this is not always a practical solution. By keeping a supply of algae destroyers on hand, pool owners can quickly deal with an algae problem and start enjoying their pools again. It is always a good idea to look at the pool each day; this will allow you to spot any budding algae problems before they become too serious.