Focus Magazine of SWFL Swimsuit Heat Wave | Page 94

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For many homeowners, there is nothing better than inviting
friends over to cool off from the sun’s warm rays in the comfort of
their own backyard pool.
But as every pool owner knows, keeping their pool clean and
maintained for everyone to enjoy can take a bit of work. Here are
some ways to keep your investment in its best shape all season
long.
Keep up with shrubs
If your backyard pool sits near trees and bushes, be sure to keep
them trimmed throughout the season. This will help avoid additional debris from flying into your pool, which can create extra
cleaning work for you. If possible, consider replacing these plants
with those that create less of a mess.
Clean the surface often
Get rid of unattractive stains at the waterline with a quality surface cleaner. For best results, use the cleaner with a pool brush
and rub from the top of the waterline to a few inches below the
mark.
Check levels regularly
Be sure to monitor your pool’s chlorine and pH levels at least
twice a week. The best time to do this is in the evening and
several hours after the last swimmer has left the pool. If a rain or
wind storm has occurred, wait about eight hours before testing.

Reduce maintenance duties
Besides providing increased comfort to swimmers, more homeowners are choosing saltwater chlorinated pools for ease of use
and reduced maintenance. If you’re looking to spend less time
keeping your pool maintained, consider installing a saltwater chlorination system, which eliminates the need for buying, storing and
handling chemical chlorine. Saltwater chlorinated pool owners also
enjoy the benefits of less irritated skin and eyes, as well as a significant cost savings verses their chemical chlorine counterparts.
Run filtration system daily
Water in constant movement is less likely to collect debris, such
as dust, body oils and bacteria. Be sure to run your filtration system as much as possible throughout the summer to keep water as
clean and clear as possible.
Keep equipment tidy
Pool skimmers are used to pick up yard debris, insects and other
undesirable items that can fall into the water. While skimming the
pool is typically needed before every swim, you should also clean
the skimmers on a weekly basis, or as needed.
A clean, maintained pool will help you get most from those carefree days of summer.

www.swimincomfort.com
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