5 Hot Weather Pool Care Secrets from the Front Lines

The extremely hot weather arrived approximately one week early this year—the average date of our first 100-degree day is July 1^st, but this year it arrived on June 23^rd. History says that our two hottest months are July and August—we average 1.6 days of at least 100 degrees in June, 7.4 days in July, 9.7 days in August, and only 1.4 in September.

As you can imagine, this hot weather can create problems for swimming pools if the pool is not properly maintained. We take care of many pools on a weekly basis, and although we don’t always succeed at keeping them all clear and beautiful, we feel that we can offer some sage advice.  Following are 5 hot weather pool care secrets from the front lines—the professional Maintenance Technicians:

1. Circulation—If your main pump is a single-speed pump, be sure that it is operating at least 8-12 hours per day. If your main pump is a variable-speed pump operating at a lower speed, 8-12 hours is likely not enough. The operating time of your main pump will vary depending on the pool, but the pump must operate in order for the pool water to remain clear. If you have a salt system, you might have to run the pump for even longer periods, as the salt system does not operate unless the pump is in operation.
2. Filtration—Filtration refers to the skimmer baskets, pump basket, and the filter—all need to be kept clean and free of debris. In addition, make sure that your filter is operating properly and be sure to keep your filter backwashed (or cleaned).
3. Brushing—It is of particular importance to brush the walls and floor of the pool in order to prevent algae and bacteria from growing, especially in the low circulation areas of the pool (steps, benches, corners, etc.).
4. Proper Water Chemistry—Pool water should be tested and treated at least once per week in order to keep it free from bacteria and algae. In addition, we suggest bringing a pint of pool water to our Retail Store at least once per month or so and we will perform a complete water analysis for you. Once the tests have been performed, add the chemicals that are needed. It is also a good idea to use a preventative algaecide in this hot weather.
   1. Test at least weekly during this hot weather
      chlorine –  2.0 to 4.0ppm
      pH – 7.2 to 7.6
      cyanuric acid – 30 to 50ppm
      salt level in a salt pool –2700 to 3500 ppm
   2. Test monthly or as needed
      total alkalinity – 80 to 100 for calcium hypochlorite, salt pools, & liquid chlorine pools 100 to 120 for dichlor and trichlor pools
      calcium hardness – 200 to 400 ppm
5. The Two Most Important Tips:
   1. Professional Maintenance Technicians all know that maintaining the chlorine level in the 2-4ppm range (or even higher) is extremely important. Not having a chlorine residual in the pool will often result in cloudy water, a green pool, or algae.
   2. Something that is often overlooked is the importance of keeping the pH in the proper range. Chlorine (including salt pools) is much more effective when the pH is at 7.2 than it is at 7.6, so try to keep your pH in the lower half of the range (7.2 to 7.4).

As you enjoy your swimming pool this summer, be sure to be aware of the importance of a regular maintenance program in order to avoid problems.

We hope that you have an enjoyable summer and please let us know if you need help with your pool.