We don't have to tell you it's hot this weekend! Summer isn't over, and that means pool season is still going strong. Plus, it's always a good idea to close late and open early to avoid costly issues.
We still have plenty of time to enjoy our pools, and as the heat continues to rise, it's crucial to take care of your swimming pool. We've got some pool care tips to keep you going through August and September. First, though, let's look at why it's so important to take care of your pool when it's hot.
Hot Weather Pool Care
You know it's important to take care of your pool all the time, but it's crucial when it's hot!
When the weather is hot, the sunlight is strong. Plus, you may be swimming more to keep cool. All these things combined together can cause issues.
You may want to adjust the way you take care of your pool to keep it crystal clear, clean, and healthy for swimming. This way, you avoid algae, health issues, cloudy water, and other problems.
Here are the five things you want to pay attention to:
- Evaporation
- Water Balance
- Algae
- Keeping your pool cool
- Protecting your equipment
#1: Watch Out for Evaporation
Did you know that even in average temperature weather, your pool loses about a quarter of an inch of water to evaporation every day?
Yet, when the temperatures head into the high 90s and 100s, you can lose about half an inch of water every day.
You'll find when you test your water that you may end up with water that is out of balance, and you may even damage your pump.
The best thing you can do during hot spells is monitor your water levels and refill your pool as necessary.
Don't forget that when you add water, you need to test your water again and add chemicals as necessary.
#2: Test Your Water More Often
We recommend water tests at least every week, and when it's hot and/or you have heavy bather loads, two to three times per week.
Regular water testing is the best way to keep your pool water balanced. When it's hot, water is evaporating. And the UV from the sun's rays breaks down chlorine quickly.
You know your pool needs chlorine to stay healthy and kill algae and bacteria. So, to keep your pool clean, you must maintain the proper chlorine levels. If you run low, you end up with algae and harmful organisms.
In addition, you want to shock your pool once a week when it's hot. Do this at night for more efficiency.
#3: Keep Algae Out of Your Pool
Algae can take over any time of the year, but the risk is higher when it's hot outside. Algae love warm water, but you don't!
There are several steps you can take to keep algae out of your pool:
- Brush and vacuum your pool regularly. This means taking care of the floor and the walls.
- Skim your pool to remove debris.
- Use an automatic pool cleaner/pool robot to do much of the heavy lifting for you.
- Run your pump more often to keep your pool clean and crystal clear.
- Make sure your water is balanced by keeping your pH, total alkalinity, and calcium levels in the right place. Don't forget to maintain your water's pH level, too.
#4: Help Your Pool Stay Cool
The last thing you want to do on a super hot day is jump into a hot pool.
There are a few ways you can help keep your pool water cooler so it's nice and refreshing.
- Use a pool fountain.
- Turn on your water features, such as fountains and waterfalls.
- Use a cool/heat pump to work on cooling your pool.
#5: Don't Forget Your Pool Equipment
Sometimes, the heat and rays of the sun can cause issues with your pool equipment.
So, you want to check over your pool equipment on a regular basis. Repair and replace it as necessary. This includes your pump, filter, and heater.
You Can Enjoy Your Pool in the Heat
With these five steps, you are well on your way to enjoying your pool through the heat of summer and into the fall.
If you need help or want us to take care of your weekly maintenance, contact us today! We'd love to answer your questions and provide service if you need it.
