Having your own pool is a great source of recreation for the whole family, especially during the oppressive summer months, but performing regular maintenance is key. We’ve heard some interesting pool maintenance myths over the last three decades. Here are the most common pool maintenance myths in Tucson, AZ, and our professional advice to counteract them:
- Pools cost a lot of money to maintain: This is partly true—pools do cost money in that they require time, energy, water and special cleaners to maintain. However, there are plenty of energy-efficient pumps and cleaners that will cut down on your operating costs. You can also work with your pool contractor to ensure that the pool is constructed to be as environmentally friendly as possible.
- You can clean your pool with household cleaners: You should never use household cleaners to clean your pool—they can throw off the delicate balance in your pool water and damage the sides, floors and equipment. Only use the proper pool cleaning chemicals recommended by your contractor or manufacturer.
- Saltwater pools are maintenance free: Saltwater pools are lower maintenance than traditional pools, but they still require some care. You’ll need to balance the pH levels, keep debris skimmed and more.
- You don’t have to run your pump that long: No, you can’t just run your pump a few hours per day and trust that your pool will be clean enough. Most pumps need to run at least eight to 10 hours per day to filter your entire pool. Otherwise, you’re setting yourself up for a green, hazardous pool that will cost more time and money to cure.
- You can just stick some chlorine tabs in the skimmer: You need to use a chlorinator for your pool. They can be installed near your pump or you can use a floating chlorinator, but never put your chlorine tablets in the skimmer or pump. That results in highly acidic water that will harm the machinery.
- A chemical smell means your pool is clean: The chlorine smell we associate with public pools is a result of the chemicals coming into contact with contaminants. A properly cleaned and disinfected pool does not smell like chemicals.
- The bigger the pump, the better: The size of your pump depends on your home’s plumbing capacity and how big of a pump your pool can handle. If you buy a bigger pump than you need, you’ll generally see higher energy bills without any noticeable cleaning or pumping benefits. Bigger-than-necessary pumps tend to break down or burn out faster, too.
- You can use Vaseline to lubricate your O-rings: Never use petroleum-based jelly on rubber, as it will cause the rubber to break down. Instead, use silicone or Teflon-based lubricants, as recommended by your pool contractor.
When you need additional pool maintenance advice in Tucson, AZ, get in touch with Arizona Pool & Pond Company. We’re the area’s premier pool and pond specialists, and can help with your maintenance needs. We look forward to hearing from you soon!