Servicing your pool and spa is more important than most people realize - especially if they've never owned a pool before. So when selecting a pool or spa company, consider the level of service they will offer later.
Try to fill your plaster pool as quickly as possible. If you stop filling and then resume later, the water will leave a ring in the plaster where you stopped.
Never completely drain your fiberglass swimming pool, especially if it is flaking or peeling in places. The pressure from the water on the walls of the pool keeps the fiberglass in place until a contractor can get there to repair it!
Always rinse your water testing materials in the water you are about to test. Using soap or tap water can leave a residue that may interfere with the test.
Always use fresh test strips when Ph testing your water, and take water samples at least 18 inches below the surface.
If you do need to add chemicals, wait to see whether they have the desired effect. Wait 15 minutes for liquid chlorine to circulate (with the pump running) and about 12 hours for the Ph to adjust.
When vacuuming your pool, move at a slow, steady pace. If you move too quickly, the current created by the vacuum head will stir up any dirt on the bottom of the pool.
Write the normal operating pressure directly on the filter with a waterproof marker, so you will never have to second-guess that number.
Leave the pool on the first sound of thunder, and wait 20 minutes after the last sound of thunder to let people back in the pool.
Never completely drain your fiberglass swimming pool, especially if it is flaking or peeling in places. The pressure from the water on the walls of the pool keeps the fiberglass in place until a contractor can get there to repair it!
