If you have decided to install a pool in your yard, then the in ground fibreglass option is probably your safest bet.
These pools are the most popular choice when it comes to residential purposes because their maintenance requirements are lower than those of vinyl and concrete pools.
Also, they are easy to install since these pools come ready to be put into the ground in a fibreglass shell-like structure.
Here are some tips and tricks to help you maintain your fibreglass pool.
Regularly remove debris
Whether your pool is close to a tree or not, you are very likely to find leaves, bugs and other debris accumulating in your pool.
The chances of this are even higher if you have a lush garden with plenty of trees, shrubs and flowers. Dirty pools are not attractive and they are very unhygienic so it’s a good idea to have a regular cleaning schedule.
Moreover, the cleaning tools for removing debris are quite inexpensive which makes the whole process much easier.
You will need a skimming net and a telescopic pole and you will be able to reach and scoop the dirt anywhere in your pool.
Additionally, in order to remove all the leaves and dirt from the bottom, you can rely on good old leaf vacuum.
Be careful with cleaning products
Harsh cleaners can damage fibreglass and that can require expensive repairs, so make sure to steer away from those.
Harsh cleaners will also alter the chemical balance in your pool. In order to avoid such inconveniences you should only use products that are formulated for fibreglass pools.
Also, never use brushes with stiff bristles because this will scratch your pool and its walls.
Watch out for stains
No pool should have stains, because they make it less attractive and indicate that there is something wrong with the water. Stains usually occur due to higher levels of metal in water.
In order to know how to solve the problem you should know which metals leave which stains.
For example, higher amounts of copper leave bluish-green stains. Iron causes reddish-brown ones, while magnesium results in grey stains.
If you wish to prevent stains from occurring in the first place, you should rely on regular application of metal chelating agents.
However, if the stains are already present, you should consult an expert about their removal.
Filters and chemical balance
Contemporary fibreglass swimming pools need quality filters to keep the water clean and safe for use.
Ideally, you should turn on the pool filter and leave it to run for six to eight hours a day.
The best time for filtering is right after each use of the pool. This way you will collect any dirt and debris that has been left.
Additionally, by leaving the filter to run for those several hours, you will manage to maintain a proper chemical balance in the pool.
Well-balanced chemicals are of great importance for the water quality in your pool. You should check the balance every day and preserve the pH level between 7.2 and 7.6.
Alkalinity value should be between 100 and 150 parts per million and chlorine below 3.0 per million.
Keep the required chemicals at hand and whenever it’s needed add the ones that are lacking in order to preserve the best quality of the water.
Pool covers
Your pool will need maintenance even when you’re not using it.
Whether you’re not at home or it’s just not hot enough to enjoy in the pool, you will need to prevent the water from getting contaminated.
The best and most obvious solution is using a pool cover that will protect the pool and water from dirt and debris.
This will also lower the maintenance needed when you decide to use the pool again. Additionally, if you opt for solar covers you will manage to preserve an optimal temperature of the water.
Even though fibreglass pools require less maintenance than the vinyl and concrete ones, you still have to put some effort in it.
Therefore, if you stick to your cleaning schedule and pay attention to the chemical balance, your pool should always be clean and ready to use.
Author Bio:
If one thing is true about Lillian Connors, her mind is utterly curious. That’s why she can’t resist the urge to embark on a myriad of green living/home improvement projects and spread the word about them. She cherishes the notion that sustainable housing and gardening will not only make us far less dependent on others regarding the dwellings we inhabit, but also contribute to our planet being a better place to live on. You can check her out on LinkedIn.
