Pool maintenance supplies

The basic equipment depends on the type and size of the pool, but it is generally advisable to have a leaf skimmer, brush, pool vacuum and a system for testing the water.

In addition, the pool needs a properly sized filtration system and the products required to keep the water parameters within the recommended values. With these items, you can carry out both physical cleaning and routine water testing.

There is no single frequency that applies to all pools. Temperature, number of swimmers, surroundings, water volume and treatment system all have a direct influence.

During the swimming season, it is advisable to remove leaves and debris frequently, check the water parameters regularly, and clean the bottom and walls when necessary. The filter, skimmer baskets and pump pre-filter should be inspected according to their level of dirt and the manufacturer's instructions.

The filter should be selected mainly according to the system flow rate, pool volume and pump characteristics. The pump and filter must be correctly sized to work together.

Sand filters are widely used because they are easy to maintain; cartridge filters are common in small and above-ground pools; and other systems are available for installations with specific requirements.

Do not choose a filter solely based on its diameter or price: always check its nominal flow rate and compatibility with the rest of the filtration system.

Treatment depends on the characteristics of the water and the system used. In addition to disinfectant, it is essential to measure and adjust the pH when necessary.

Products such as algaecides, clarifiers or flocculants can be used to resolve or prevent certain problems, but they do not necessarily need to be used permanently.

Before using a flocculant, pay particular attention to its compatibility with the type of filter and the manufacturer's instructions.

An automatic pool vacuum can considerably reduce cleaning work, especially in larger pools or pools that frequently accumulate dirt.

Electric robotic cleaners have their own suction and filtration system, so they collect dirt without relying directly on the pool's main filter. Depending on the model, they can clean the bottom, walls and waterline.

To make the right choice, check the pool dimensions, type of lining, shape of the pool and the cleaning areas covered by the equipment.

The maintenance principles are similar, but the equipment must be adapted to the volume, dimensions and lining of the above-ground pool.

Compact filtration systems, brushes and pool vacuums suitable for liners, and dosing systems appropriate for small volumes are commonly used. Avoid using accessories that may have sharp edges or surfaces capable of damaging the lining.

It is also particularly important to follow the doses for chemical products, since a pool with a small volume of water requires smaller quantities.

pH affects the effectiveness of certain disinfectants, swimmer comfort and the preservation of the system's components.

A value outside the recommended range can promote irritation, scaling, corrosion or reduce treatment effectiveness. In chlorine-treated pools, the usual working range is approximately pH 7.2–7.6, although the specific instructions for the product and installed system must be followed.

Therefore, having a reliable pH and disinfectant testing system is a fundamental part of maintenance.

Routine maintenance aims to keep the water balanced through filtration, physical cleaning, testing and dosing of the appropriate treatment.

Shock treatment is carried out in response to certain issues, such as a significant loss of water quality or a specific need for oxidation/disinfection. There is no universal dose: it depends on the product used, the water volume and the problem to be solved.

Before carrying it out, test the water and always follow the manufacturer's doses and instructions.

A salt chlorinator generates disinfectant from the salt present in the water, but it does not replace pool filtration or cleaning.

You will still need accessories such as a leaf skimmer, brush or pool vacuum, and you will have to monitor the water parameters. pH deserves particular attention, and some systems include automatic regulation to make this process easier.

It is also necessary to inspect and maintain the chlorinator cell according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Maintaining proper water circulation is essential. Clean the skimmer baskets and pump pre-filter, check the condition of the filter, and carry out backwashing or cleaning when required according to the type of equipment.

Prevent the pump from running without water and periodically check that there are no blockages or reductions in flow. During winter, follow the recommended winterization procedure to protect the system, especially in areas at risk of frost.

Regular maintenance helps preserve the performance of the pump and filtration system and makes it possible to detect minor problems before they cause breakdowns.