Bioguards 5 Keys to routine Swimming Pool Maintenance

6. Routine maintenance Routine maintenance is the best way to maintain your pool. And with one of BioGuard's easy-to- use 3-step pool care programs, it's as easy as 1-2-3! We even have a non-chlorine system-our SoftSwim® Program-if you prefer pool care that doesn't use chlorine to sanitize!

Thoroughly cleaning your pool on a weekly basis during the swimming season will ensure clean and safe swimming water. Skim Off Leaves and Debris   Use a long-handled leaf skimmer to gather up leaves, insects, and any other debris floating on the surface of the pool. Try to remove debris before it sinks to the bottom of your pool where it becomes difficult to remove and may create stains. Brush Use a brush to remove dirt that has collected on the sides and bottom of your pool. Brush sediment toward the main drain so it can be easily vacuumed. Vacuum Submerge your vacuum head and hose, before hooking up the vacuum to the filter. Clean Skimmer(s) You should also clean out your skimmer(s) weekly or more often if necessary. Removing debris allows the skimmer to operate at maximum efficiency. Check Water Circulation Your pool's circulation system includes the skimmer, pump, pump strainer, drains, and filter. The system helps chemicals work effectively and ensures that water is properly filtered. Run your pump long enough each day to make sure the water is properly filtered and keep each item clean and in good condition. Check Filter The three most popular types of filters - sand, cartridge, and vertical grid DE - screen out debris and particles from your pool water. You should clean and maintain your filter according to the manufacturer's directions. Shock Test your pool water frequently (daily or weekly depending on use) and add chemicals if necessary, following manufacturers' directions. A regular shock treatment cleanses the water of algae, bacteria, dirt, and any other organic matter that may have entered the pool. Follow manufacturer's directions for shock treatments.

Vacation preparation While on vacation, debris and bacteria can collect in your pool and upset the water balance. Consider a "vacation plan" to prevent problems so you can come home to a clear pool and not a messy surprise. Contact Water Works for a vacation maintenance plan. (Your Water works Rep can give you instructions based on your specific BioGuard Program.) Clean your pool thoroughly, brushing and vacuuming walls and floors. Test pool water and make sure it's properly balanced. Anything that's out of balance-total alkalinity, pH, calcium hardness-will likely get worse when left unattended. Run your pump at least eight hours a day to help prevent algae and bacteria growth. (Either set your timer or ask a neighbor to turn it on and off.) Upon returning, have your Water Works Rep perform a water analysis to ensure that your pool is properly balanced and ready for swimming.