SALT POOL MAINTENANCE TIPS
Cleaning a salt water pool involves a regular maintenance routine to keep the water clean, clear, and safe for swimmers. There are many reasons Naples Fl residents may choose to have a salt pool vs. the more common chemical pool. One thing folks seem to really value is the quality of the salt infused water that can be much gentler on the skin than chlorine. These types of systems can be found all over Collier County from the depths of Golden Gate Estates all the way over to Lely. The following is a three-step process for cleaning salt water pools:
Step 1 Skimming and Brushing: Skimming the surface of the water with a skimmer net will remove any leaves, debris, or bugs that have fallen into the pool. This will contribute to water that is clear and clean looking. Brushing the walls and floor of the pool with a pool brush will loosen any dirt or algae that may have accumulated. This step will make it easier to filter and sanitize the water. The water at this stage may actually look a little bit grimier than it did before, but don't worry, the next two steps will get rid of any of the ick and hazing in the water.
Step 2 Balancing Chemicals: The next step is to balance the chemicals in the pool. Yes even salt pool systems contain a certain amount and type of chemical composition. This includes testing the pH level, alkalinity, and calcium hardness. The pH level should be adjusted to between 7.2 and 7.8 and alkalinity between 80 and 120 parts per million. The calcium hardness should be between 200 and 400 parts per million. Add any necessary chemicals to achieve these levels. Chlorine is necessary to keep the water sanitized, but salt water pools also require regular additions of stabilizer and calcium. In many ways there is more involved with maintaining a saltwater pool.
Step 3 Filtration: The final step is to run the pool filter and allow it to circulate the water. This will remove any remaining debris or contaminants in the water. A salt water generator will convert the salt into chlorine, which will keep the water sanitized. Monitor the water chemistry and adjust the chemicals as necessary to keep the water balanced.
To perform these steps, you will need some essential equipment, including a skimmer net, pool brush, pool test kit, chlorine stabilizer, calcium, and a salt water generator. Additionally, a pool vacuum, pool filter, and pool pump will also be necessary for a more thorough cleaning. Regularly performing this maintenance routine will help to ensure that your salt water pool remains clean, clear, and safe for swimming.
Step 1 Skimming and Brushing: Skimming the surface of the water with a skimmer net will remove any leaves, debris, or bugs that have fallen into the pool. This will contribute to water that is clear and clean looking. Brushing the walls and floor of the pool with a pool brush will loosen any dirt or algae that may have accumulated. This step will make it easier to filter and sanitize the water. The water at this stage may actually look a little bit grimier than it did before, but don't worry, the next two steps will get rid of any of the ick and hazing in the water.
Step 2 Balancing Chemicals: The next step is to balance the chemicals in the pool. Yes even salt pool systems contain a certain amount and type of chemical composition. This includes testing the pH level, alkalinity, and calcium hardness. The pH level should be adjusted to between 7.2 and 7.8 and alkalinity between 80 and 120 parts per million. The calcium hardness should be between 200 and 400 parts per million. Add any necessary chemicals to achieve these levels. Chlorine is necessary to keep the water sanitized, but salt water pools also require regular additions of stabilizer and calcium. In many ways there is more involved with maintaining a saltwater pool.
Step 3 Filtration: The final step is to run the pool filter and allow it to circulate the water. This will remove any remaining debris or contaminants in the water. A salt water generator will convert the salt into chlorine, which will keep the water sanitized. Monitor the water chemistry and adjust the chemicals as necessary to keep the water balanced.
To perform these steps, you will need some essential equipment, including a skimmer net, pool brush, pool test kit, chlorine stabilizer, calcium, and a salt water generator. Additionally, a pool vacuum, pool filter, and pool pump will also be necessary for a more thorough cleaning. Regularly performing this maintenance routine will help to ensure that your salt water pool remains clean, clear, and safe for swimming.
