While the celebration was probably lots of fun, it is crucial to understand the process of cleaning your pool after a party. The five steps below are essential to follow so that your pool remains in good shape and lasts as long as possible.
1. Test Chemical Levels Carefully
Testing the chemical levels in your pool will ensure that you do not overwhelm the water with unnecessary doses of algaecide, stain removers, and clarifiers. This overload of chemicals will make the pool appear cloudy due to oversaturation. With this considered, four main measurements should be monitored carefully during this first step to clean your pool: pH level, total alkalinity, cyanuric acid, and calcium hardness.
For a good rule of thumb, each of these measurements should be between specific amounts before moving forward with other cleaning steps. When measuring, pH should have a value between 7.2 and 7.6. The total alkalinity can vary between 80-120 ppm, and cyanuric acid should be between 25 to 50 ppm. Lastly, calcium hardness should have a value between 200 and 400 ppm.
2. Execute a Pool Shock Treatment
With the help of a pool shock treatment, your pool is clear of all bacteria. To be most effective, add enough treatment until the chlorine level in your pool reaches ten ppm! This step of the cleaning process might work best if done right before going to bed so that the treatment has time to work its magic throughout the night. After the treatment has been in your pool throughout the night, it is vital to test chemical levels again to ensure they are at the correct ranges before continuing.
3. Skim, Brush, & Vacuum the Pool’s Surface
Skimming, brushing, and vacuuming are essential when cleaning your pool after a party. This step will assist with water clarity and remove debris that might have made its way into the pool during the party: dirt, sand, leaves, and insects. Skimming will remove any debris floating on top of the water’s surface. Brushing, specifically the walls and stairs, will direct all other dirt and debris to the bottom of the pool. Lastly, vacuuming will suck up those various sediments that have settled to the bottom of your pool.
4. Add a Clarifier to the Pool
Adding a clarifier to your pool after a large gathering will ensure that your pool filter traps small particles that the skimming, brushing, and vacuuming may not have caught. The clarifier will ensure that your water appears spotless and shiny. To do this step, read the product’s instructions carefully since many need to be in specific water conditions to work effectively.
5. Run Circulation & Filtration System
Running the circulation and filtration system is the last step in cleaning your pool. While it may sound simple, ensuring that you let your pool equipment run for 24-48 hours is essential. This process is just another safe step to guarantee cloud-free water.
Cleaning your pool after a party can be a breeze if you implement these five steps into your routine. Diligently doing this routine will ensure the pool is consistently sanitary and clear.