Spring to cleaning the pool

I’M going to level with you – there is a running joke in my family about the state of our pool.

So much so, that we have nicknamed it “Rio” (after the Olympic diving pool fiasco).

While it’s not quite green (yet), the pool has had little-tono TLC since we moved onto our property a month ago.

As the mercury rises and the old ‘spring cleaning’ phrase gets tossed about, I thought it was the perfect time to compile a list of must-do items before you start bomb-diving into the deep end.

According to Swimart, a good starting point is a water health check to check the pH levels.

“Water analysis is an important regular part of maintaining a healthy pool or spa,” the pool expert’s state.

“Swimart stores offer a free water analysis service but pool or spa owners who are short on time can have a technician visit their home.

“They analyse the water and recommend any chemicals that are needed.”

To prevent algae, dose your pool regularly with correct amount of chlorine, clean the filter and pump system, and cut back overhanging trees to decrease the number of leaves falling into the pool.

Next for some elbow grease - it’s time to brush the pool walls and vacuum the loosened algae (if your pool is in bad shape like mine).

“Pool water needs to be filtered, and will not clear up very quickly if you have a filter that doesn’t work properly.

“It doesn’t matter how much shock you put in the pool if you have a poor filter.”

If you have filter sand, remember that it needs to be replaced every four to five years, and the skimmer box is sure to need a good clean out too.

Finally, put your testing kit to good use and check all the chlorine, alkaline and pH levels are right before dipping in.

If all else fails, maybe just use your neighbour’s pool on a hot day.