Owning an inground pool is like having your own little retreat just steps from your back door—weekend swims, poolside lounging, and memories made with friends and family. But let’s be honest: behind every picture-perfect pool day is some good old-fashioned maintenance.
If you're a new pool owner or just want to keep things running smoothly this summer, here’s a simple breakdown of what it takes to keep that water sparkling and swim-ready.
Start with the Basics: Test and Balance Your Water
Think of your pool water like a science experiment. It needs the right mix of elements to stay clean and safe.
Test often – Aim for once a week using test strips or a test kit. You’ll want to keep an eye on pH, chlorine, and alkalinity.
Target that perfect pH – Somewhere between 7.2 and 7.8 keeps the water comfy and your pool equipment happy.
Keep it sanitized – Make sure chlorine stays between 1-3 ppm to keep bacteria out and the water clear.
Stay on Top of Cleaning
A few minutes a day can save you hours later.
Skim daily – Leaves, bugs, and other debris are easier to remove before they sink.
Brush and vacuum weekly – Don’t let algae settle in. A robotic pool vacuum can be a game-changer.
Empty the skimmer basket – A clogged basket slows down filtration and water flow.
Check Your Equipment Often
Your pump, filter, and accessories do the heavy lifting. Make sure they’re in good shape.
Run the pump 8–12 hours a day – It keeps the water circulating and filtered.
Clean or change the filter as needed – A dirty filter = cloudy water.
Inspect ladders and rails – Safety first! Look for rust or loose parts.
Backwash when necessary – For sand or DE filters, backwash every few weeks to keep things flowing smoothly.
Winterize Like a Pro
If you're in a colder region, don't skip this step when pool season winds down.
Balance the water before closing – Adjust pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness.
Clean and cover – A tight-fitting, durable cover helps keep your pool clean over the winter.
Drain equipment – This prevents freezing and expensive damage.
Book a Yearly Pro Inspection
Even if you’ve got everything running like clockwork, a second set of eyes never hurts.
Annual service checks – A certified technician can spot problems early and save you money.
Suspect a leak? – If your water levels drop suddenly, don’t wait get it checked out ASAP.
Make It Yours
Once everything’s running smooth, it’s time to add your personal touch. Upgrade your landscaping, hang some string lights, or bring in cozy lounge chairs. Your pool should feel like an extension of your home so make it a space you genuinely enjoy.
💬 Have Poolside Dreams and Real Estate Goals? Ty Can Help.
Whether you’re upgrading to a home with a pool or selling your current place for something new, Ty knows how to navigate the market and get results. Let’s chat about your next move and maybe swap pool care tips while we’re at it. 😉
