Investing in an inground pool is a significant commitment, both financially and in terms of time. A well-maintained pool can provide decades of enjoyment, increasing the value of your property and offering countless hours of relaxation and fun.

To ensure your pool stands the test of time, it’s essential to adopt best practices for maintenance and care. At John Pack Custom Pools, an award winning pool builder in Georgetown TX, we believe that a little proactive effort can go a long way in extending the life of your pool. Here’s how you can make your inground pool last longer.

1. Regular Cleaning: Keep Your Pool Pristine

One of the most fundamental aspects of pool care is keeping it clean. Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of debris, algae, and bacteria, which can deteriorate the pool’s surfaces and lead to costly repairs. Here’s a quick cleaning routine to follow:

• Skim Daily: Use a skimmer net to remove leaves, insects, and other debris from the pool’s surface.
• Brush Weekly: Brush the walls, steps, and floor of your pool to prevent algae buildup and to remove dirt.
• Vacuum Weekly: Invest in a pool vacuum or automatic cleaner to thoroughly clean the pool’s floor and hard-to-reach areas.
• Empty Skimmer and Pump Baskets: Regularly check and empty your skimmer and pump baskets to ensure proper water circulation.

By incorporating these simple tasks into your routine, you can keep your pool looking its best and prevent long-term damage.

2. Proper Chemical Balance: Protect Your Pool’s Integrity

Maintaining the correct chemical balance is crucial for preserving the integrity of your pool’s materials and ensuring safe swimming conditions. Imbalanced water can lead to various issues, including corrosion, staining, and algae growth. Here are the key chemical levels to monitor:

• pH Level: Aim for a pH between 7.2 and 7.8. A balanced pH protects your pool’s surfaces and equipment from corrosion or scale buildup.
• Chlorine: Maintain a chlorine level of 1.0 to 3.0 parts per million (ppm) to effectively sanitize your pool water and kill bacteria.
• Alkalinity: Keep total alkalinity between 80 and 120 ppm to stabilize the pH levels and prevent sudden fluctuations.
• Calcium Hardness: Aim for a calcium hardness level between 200 and 400 ppm to prevent plaster damage and water cloudiness.
• Cyanuric Acid: If you use a stabilized chlorine, maintain cyanuric acid levels between 30 and 50 ppm to protect chlorine from sunlight degradation.

Regularly test your pool water with a quality testing kit or take a sample to a pool professional for analysis. Adjust chemical levels as needed to keep your water balanced and your pool surfaces in optimal condition.

3. Proper Water Levels: Avoid Damage to Pool Equipment

Maintaining the correct water level is essential for the health of your pool’s equipment, such as the pump and filter. If the water level is too low, the pump may draw in air, causing it to overheat and potentially burn out. On the other hand, if the water level is too high, it can affect the skimmer’s efficiency in removing debris.

As a general rule, your pool’s water level should be at the midpoint of the skimmer opening. Regularly check the water level, especially after heavy rain or significant evaporation, and make adjustments as necessary.

4. Monitor and Maintain Pool Equipment: Keep Everything Running Smoothly

Your pool’s equipment, including the pump, filter, heater, and chlorinator, plays a vital role in maintaining water quality and extending the life of your pool. Regular maintenance of these components is essential to prevent breakdowns and ensure efficient operation. Here’s what to do:

• Inspect the Pump and Filter: Check for leaks, unusual noises, or reduced efficiency. Clean or backwash the filter as needed to maintain proper water flow.
• Service the Heater: If you have a pool heater, schedule annual maintenance to inspect and clean the unit, ensuring it operates efficiently and safely.
• Check for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect hoses, seals, and connections for signs of wear or damage. Replace any worn parts promptly to avoid more extensive repairs.

By staying on top of equipment maintenance, you can prevent costly repairs and keep your pool running smoothly for years to come.

5. Winterize Your Pool: Protect It During the Off-Season

If you live in an area with cold winters, proper winterization is crucial to extending the life of your inground pool. Failing to winterize your pool can lead to freeze damage, which can be expensive to repair. Here’s how to do it:

• Balance the Water: Before closing your pool, balance the water chemistry to prevent scale buildup and corrosion during the winter.
• Lower the Water Level: Drain the water to below the skimmer level to protect the plumbing from freezing.
• Drain and Store Equipment: Drain the pump, filter, heater, and any other equipment. Store movable parts in a dry, sheltered location.
• Cover the Pool: Invest in a high-quality pool cover to keep debris out and protect your pool from the elements.

Proper winterization can save you from significant headaches and expenses when it’s time to reopen your pool in the spring.

6. Invest in Professional Inspections: Catch Issues Early

Even with diligent care, some pool issues may go unnoticed until they become serious problems. That’s why it’s wise to schedule regular professional inspections. A trained pool technician can identify and address potential issues before they escalate, saving you time and money in the long run.

At John Pack Custom Pools, we offer comprehensive pool inspection services, ensuring your pool remains in top condition year after year.

Conclusion

Your inground pool is a valuable asset that can provide endless enjoyment, but it requires regular care and attention to maximize its lifespan. By following these maintenance tips—cleaning regularly, balancing chemicals, monitoring water levels, maintaining equipment, winterizing, and investing in professional inspections—you can ensure your pool remains a beautiful and functional part of your home for many years to come.

If you need help with pool resurfacing or have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to John Pack's team of pool builders in Georgetown, TX. We’re here to support you in every aspect of pool ownership, from pool installation to long-term care.