Your pool pump is an unsung hero. It circulates the water to keep it fresh, inviting, and pristine. Running your pool pump daily isn’t just a recommendation but a cornerstone of proper pool care. Especially in the mid-summer heat where stagnation can lead to algae before you blink, operating your pool pump daily is absolutely essential.

Aim to circulate the water for about 8–10 hours a day during peak usage and in the summer (4–6 should be fine for cooler temperatures and lower usage). If you have a variable-speed pump, you should aim to circulate the water as much as 18 hrs in the heat of the summer or up to 12-14 hours in hot climates. Your pump will help remove debris as water passes through the filter and will help ensure chemicals are evenly distributed. With routine pool pump usage, your pool will always be crystal clear and ready for a splash whenever family and friends need some relief from the sun.

Pro pool tip: If you are concerned about the electric bill, consider investing in a variable-speed pump. By reducing the RPMs of the pump when you don’t need it, you can save 75 percent or more on your electric bill.

Keep Your Pool Chemicals Balanced

Balancing your pool’s chemicals can be a challenge, but with some attention, precision, and care, you can get the science down. Here are some ideal levels to keep your pool water safe and sparkling:

• pH: 7.4–7.6
• Alkalinity: 100–150 ppm (parts per million)
• Chlorine: 1–3 ppm

You’ll want to test your water at least once a week to stay ahead of any imbalances that could turn your pool into a breeding ground for bacteria or an irritant for the skin and eyes. Adjusting levels gradually and keeping a close eye on the effect of your tweaks will ensure your pool remains a haven of relaxation all season long.

Maintain a Pool Cleaning Schedule

A consistent, regular cleaning schedule is essential for your pool’s health. You’ll want to make sure you set aside to skim, brush, and vacuum your pool every single week.

• Skimming removes leaves and other debris that collect and that may not filter well.
• Brushing prevents algae buildup and other residues from accumulating on walls and tiles.
• Vacuuming captures dirt that has settled at the bottom of the pool and that won’t be easily filtered out.

Checking and cleaning your filter system regularly ensures that it continues to work efficiently and helps you minimize the amount of manual labor needed to maintain your pool. Regular cleaning and maintenance keep your pool looking great and save you costly repairs down the line!

Pick the Right Pool Heater & Filter

Selecting the right pool heater and filter for your pool is crucial for ensuring comfort, cleanliness, and safety. The heater you choose should align with your usage and budget.

• Gas heaters have a lot of heating power but can prove costly to operate.
• Electric heat pumps are efficient and have lower operating costs but heat the pool more slowly.
• Solar heaters require upfront investment but can over savings over time.

For filters, the three most common types are sand, cartridge, and diatomaceous earth (DE).

• Sand filters are low maintenance but least effective in trapping small particles.
• Cartridge filters capture more debris and are easier to maintain than DE filters.
• Diatomaceous earth (DE) filters are more difficult to maintain but also provide the best filtration.

Like the chemicals, it’s all something to balance: weigh your needs and budget against your desired outcome and choose the heater and filter that’s right for your situation. Remember, though, that a pool isn’t just an outdoor feature but a backyard oasis that will help you and your loved ones make cherished memories for years to come.