Many online posts and articles focus on how to get your body ready for your bikini or baggies as summer approaches. But hardly anyone mentions the swimming pool where you’ll be throwing those cozzie-clad bodies! For that reason, this article concentrates on how to get your pool ready for its summer close-up.

The first and most important guideline is to never empty your pool, even if it has become green from neglect over the winter. In fact, an empty pool may rise out of the ground, particularly if you are in a region with a high water table.

Empty every basket in the filter and weir, then skim the surface for any leaves or other debris. Pick up any leaves that have fallen to the pool’s bottom.
Verify the chemical concentrations. One of the most crucial things you can do to ensure the best possible quality for your water is this.

• pH – The idea pH of your pool should be between 7.2 and 7.4. An incorrect pH will affect how much chlorine turns into Hypochlorous Acid.
• Alkalinity – this buffers the pH, and should be between 80 and 120.
• Calcium – if your water is too “hard” i.e. it contains too much calcium, it can actually damage the finish of your pool. It can also negatively affect the vinyl in above-ground pools.
• Chlorine – levels should be between 1 and 3 parts per million (ppm). Many home-owners prefer the round, disc-shaped chlorine tablets that dissolve slowly, dispensing an even amount of chemicals into the water. These tablets contain Cyanuric Acid, which limits the sun’s ability to burn off chlorine.

It may take up to a week for your pool to regain its former summer glory, but the wait will be worth it. Happy swimming!!

At Pool, Spa and Filtration Supplies, we stock a huge variety of swimming pool products to help you get the most out of your pool. We also offer economical heat pump solutions that can significantly extend the number of months you’ll be able to swim. Visit www.poolspa.co.za for more information, or call us on +27 11 793 1381/2/3 for expert advice.