Learn a few saltwater pool maintenance tips to keep your swimming pool in excellent shape during the summer.
A saltwater swimming pool remains one of the best ways to relax and cool off during the summer months. However, keeping your swimming pool well-maintained is especially important to staying safe and avoiding any major issues. Staying proactive with maintenance will also help your pool stay in excellent condition for a long time.
Here is an overview of saltwater pool maintenance tips that you will need to remember:
Testing the Water
Start with regular testing of your pool’s water. Saltwater pools need a salt level of around 2700 to 4500 parts per million (ppm). Aim for a free chlorine level of 1 to 3 ppm and a cyanuric acid level of 70 to 80 ppm.
Additionally, the water’s pH level should be kept between 7.2 and 7.8. To keep the pH levels under control, you can use sodium carbonate to increase the level or muriatic acid to decrease it. You should also keep the calcium hardness anywhere between 200 and 400 ppm to avoid corrosion.
It’s advisable to get test kits or test strips to help with this. Routine testing is a key part of saltwater pool maintenance.
Clean Your Pool
One of the most recommended ways to maintain a saltwater or freshwater pool is by cleaning it regularly. Make sure to remove any leaves, bugs, or debris by using a net or pool vacuum. You can even scrub the sides of the pool to prevent algae growth. A mild acid wash can also be applied to the walls of the pool to deal with long-term stains or discoloration.
Maintaining the Salt Chlorine Generator
The heart of a saltwater pool is its salt chlorine generator. This device converts the salt in your pool into chlorine, ensuring the water is clean and safe. It’s essential to clean the salt cell of the generator regularly.
Turn off the generator, remove the cells, and wash them gently with a high-pressure hose. If the cells are heavily scaled, soak them in a solution that includes one part muriatic acid to five parts water.
Maintain Salt Levels
The ideal salt level for a saltwater pool is between 2700 and 4500 ppm, but during the summer months, water evaporation can affect these levels. Regularly testing and adjusting the salt content is crucial to keeping the saltwater pool in optimal condition. You can add salt directly to the pool if the levels are below the recommended range.
Manage Your Pool’s Alkalinity
Balancing your pool’s pH level can be a tricky business, but it’s crucial for maintaining a healthy swimming environment. Alkalinity should be kept between 80 and 120 ppm to prevent rapid pH shifts. Using sodium bicarbonate can increase alkalinity, while muriatic acid can decrease it.
Saltwater Pool Maintenance Doesn’t End in the Summer
Ultimately, proper saltwater pool maintenance is a continuous process that does not end in the summer months. Spending the extra time on pool maintenance is well worth the effort to keep your pool working at an optimal level.
Don’t forget that regular maintenance will extend your pool’s lifespan, prevent unnecessary repairs, and keep the water healthy for your family and guests. A clean and well-maintained pool is always more enjoyable.
Reach Out to Larsen’s Pool & Spa to Learn More
At Larsen’s Pool & Spa, we are the premier custom pool builders in Tampa Bay, offering a range of services from new pool construction to swimming pool renovations and pool remodeling. We understand that pool maintenance might seem overwhelming, especially for new pool owners. That’s why our team is more than happy to answer any of your questions.
We also provide a range of swimming pool services, from construction to renovation and remodeling. You can always trust our pool builders with all of your swimming pool needs.
Contact Larsen’s Pool & Spa today to learn more about our services and pool financing options that can make your pool dreams a reality!