A well-maintained pool not only looks spotless, but Protect your investment and ensure the safety of bathers . This technical protocol explains how to perform proper maintenance, from chemical balancing to brushing.
1. Review of Chemical Parameters (Key to Healthy Water)
A. Basic Chemical Equilibrium
The three parameters NON-NEGOTIABLE in every pool are:
| Parameter | Ideal Range | What happens if it's out of range? | How to adjust it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free Chlorine | 1.0 – 3.0 ppm | <1 ppm: Algae and bacteria grow. >3 ppm: Irritates skin/eyes. | Add liquid chlorine or tablets to skimmer. |
| pH | 7.2 – 7.6 | <7.2: Corrodes metals and stings eyes. >7.6: Reduces the effectiveness of chlorine. | Wear pH reducer (muriatic acid) or increaser (sodium carbonate). |
| Alkalinity | 80 – 120 ppm | <80: Unstable pH. >120: Cloudy water and calcium scale. | Adjust with baking soda (upload) or acid (lower). |
Measurement frequency:
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Chlorine and pH: 2-3 times per week (during season).
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Alkalinity and calcium hardness: Once a month.
Recommended tools:
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Digital photometer (precision superior to test strips).
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Taylor Technologies Test Kit (professional standard).
2. Brushing: Removal of Biofilm and Algae
Why brush?
Even if the water looks clean, the walls and floors accumulate biofilm (an invisible layer of bacteria and algae) that reduces the effectiveness of chlorine.
Correct protocol:
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Frequency: 1-2 times per week.
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Technique:
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Use a brush nylon bristles (for liner or fiber) or metallic (for concrete).
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Rub in circles, focusing on:
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Waterline (where oils accumulate).
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Corners and behind stairs.
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Post-brushing:
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Leave the pump running for 6-8 hours to filter out debris.
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Common mistake: Use the same brush for Venetian mosaic pools (it can loosen chips if it is too aggressive).
3. Correct Use of Chlorine: Myths and Truths
Types of Chlorine and When to Use Them
| Guy | Concentration | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liquid chlorine | 10-12% | Acts quickly. Ideal for shocks. | Loses power in 48 hours. |
| Tablets (trichloro) | 90% | Slow release (3-7 days). | Acidifies water. Do not use in plastic skimmers. |
| Granulated chlorine | 56-62% | Stabilizer-free (ideal for water with high CYA). | More expensive. |
Golden rule:
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Never mix chlorine with other chemicals (e.g. muriatic acid = toxic gases).
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Weekly "Shock": Apply 5-10 ppm of granular chlorine after intensive use.
4. pH and Alkalinity Adjustment: The Basis of Perfect Water
Professional procedure:
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Adjust alkalinity first (it is the pH "cushion").
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If low (<80 ppm): Add baking soda (1.5 kg/50 m³ increases ~10 ppm).
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If high (>120 ppm): Use muriatic acid (dilute in water and pour into the deep end).
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Correct the pH 24 hours later.
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To lower pH: Muriatic acid (250 ml/50 m³ reduces ~0.2 points).
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To raise pH: Sodium carbonate (same dose as the acid).
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Technical data: High pH (>7.8) inactivates up to 50% of free chlorine.
5. Preventive Maintenance: Weekly Checklist
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Physical cleaning:
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Skimmer and pump basket (every 2 days in summer).
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Background with manual or robot vacuum cleaner.
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Equipment Review:
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Filter pressure (>10 psi = backwash).
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Water level (should cover 2/3 of the skimmer).
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Additional protection:
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Solar cover to reduce evaporation and pollutants.
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A maintenance consistent and data-driven Avoid repair costs and prolong the life of your pool. In VIP Pools we recommend professional water analysis every 3 months to detect hidden problems (such as elevated CYA or dissolved metals).
📌 Do you need a personalized guide for your type of pool? [Contact us for a free evaluation].
Note: This protocol applies to conventional built-in pools. If you have alternative systems (ozone, saline, etc.), specific adjustments are required.