Above Ground Pools: Keeping Them Clean And Clear

Above ground pools mean easy and convenient relaxation, whenever you wish, but it also comes with the price of maintenance. Algae, broken drain filters and unbalanced chemicals can all cause pool water to appear cloudy. Thankfully, it's not at all difficult to avoid the mess. Making an effort to check your water on a regular basis will help you keep your pool fresh and clean throughout the summer swimming months. In this article, we will offer up a few helpful tips to help with your maintenance. 
Step 1: 
Purchase yourself a leaf net from your local pool supply shop and clean out any leaves and debris that happens to make its way into the water each and every day. If you're into an easier route, you can always purchase an electric pool skimmer to float along the surface and clean the water for you. 
Step 2: 
Add to that a pool vacuum and clean out any algae and dirt buildup on the pool bottom daily. 
Step 3: 
While you're at it, grab yourself a water testing kit to monitor the level of chemicals in your water. Figure out whether the TA and pH levels are appropriate based on the recommended levels for your type of pool. In most cases, the hydrogen level should be around 7 and the alkaline level should be between 170 and 125 per million. These levels should be tested at least once a week to ensure optimum performance. 
Step 4: 
You'll need to maintain your chemical balance by adding additional chemicals to your water when needed. If you find that your pH level is lower than needed, you should add a pH increaser. If your pH levels are higher than they should be, a pH decreaser should be added. In order to keep the TA levels balanced, TA decreasers and increasers should be used in the same way. 
Step 5: 
Test strips can be utilized to find out whether your calcium hardness levels meet the amount required for your pool. Ideally, you'll want these levels to stay between 400 and 200 ppm (parts per million). If your levels are below 200, calcium chloride should be added. In cases where higher levels are found, some of the existing water should be replaced with fresh, clean water. Allow the water to sit for a period of 24 hours and test it again. Continue with this process until a lower level is obtained. Water should be tested once each week to ensure that the proper levels are maintained. 
Step 6: 
Add algaecide to the water to hinder algae growth. The amount and how frequently the algaecide is added will depend on the water amount found in the pool. Be sure to follow any directions provided on the bottle. 
Step 7: 
Shock your pool. The need for a shock treatment can be determined by using your water test kit. Shock the pool if your water tests 2 ppm higher than the kit level. Follow all directions and treat as often as needed.