Periodically
applying a fresh coat of finish will prevent deterioration
from pool water and improve appearance.
Over
time, waterline tile can become marred by mineral
deposit buildup. Once every year or two, lower the
waterline to expose the tile and use a tile‑cleaning
block made of pumice to restore the appearance.
Loose tile should be removed and resecured. Discolored
or grungy grout can be restored by removing the
outermost layer of grout and regrouting the tile.
The
interior of a pool can take a real beating over
time, especially if the water isn’t properly balanced.
A
plaster liner can become stained or so rough that
it can damage swimmers’ feet. A commercial cleaning
can often deal with appearance or staining issues,
but a rough surface will generally require
resurfacing the interior with a fresh coat of plaster,
fiberglass or other decorative finish such as pebbles
or tile.
Pool
equipment–pumps, filters and cleaning equipment–are
the central nervous system of your pool. Keeping
them in tiptop working order will give you the most
attractive swim environment and the least offensive
utility bill.
Basket
strainers, surfaces skimmers and pump pots should
be checked and emptied regularly to prevent straining
motors. Replace cracked or damaged baskets to prevent
large material (leaves, needles, and so on) from
making their way into the filter. Keep an eye on
the pressure gauge at the filter.
Excessive
pressure is a sure sign that the filter needs to
be cleaned or replaced. A dirty filter uses more
energy and does a poor job of keeping your pool
clean.
If
your pool has an automatic cleaner, check it from
time to time to make sure it is doing its job.
Replace
worn or torn collection bags. Tune‑up kits,
available for most automatic pool cleaners, will
extend the life of the equipment for many useful
years.
Make
sure diving boards, slides and other equipment are
in good shape, free of peeling paint and securely
anchored to decking. The fiberglass used to construct
most boards and slides can be restored with good‑quality
fiberglass cleaner and polish. It will make going
down the slide a whole lot easier (and more fun).
We
don’t know many people who like a cold pool. Consequently,
solar‑heating equipment and solar covers have
become increasingly popular. Periodically check
solar panels and piping for leaks to ensure maximum
efficiency and minimize water loss.
Beyond
heating the water, a solar blanket will prevent
debris from making its way into the pool
water and cut the time needed to run the filter
and pool cleaner. And that equals less energy and
a lower utility bill.
One
of the most effective means of lowering your utility
costs is by installing a multi‑speed pool
pump. A multi‑speed pool pump will use only
about half as much electricity as an old single‑speed
pump.
There
are other benefits. Your pump will run much more
quietly; it will run cooler, potentially extending
its useful life; most filters will work more efficiently
and your pool water will circulate through the filter
for more hours per day. Many utility companies offer
rebates for an energy‑saving multi‑speed
pool pump. Running pool equipment during off‑peak
hours, such as during the night, can mean even greater
utility savings.
