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Above Ground Pool Care

For More Enjoyment

Above ground pool care does not have to be something you dread doing everyday.  There are a few simple things you can do to make your pool ownership a pleasure, not a pain.  With the right chemicals, the right filter and the right cleaning equipment it should all be easy.

The filter is the key to a healthy pool.  You need the right size for your pool.  You also need to run it enough hours a day and keep it cleaned out. The smaller the unit the more hours it needs to run and the more often you need to clean the filter elements, either a cartridge, sand or the DE type.

The chemicals you use in your pool are also important.  There are many ways to sanitize a pool.  I use chlorine tablets in a floating chlorinator and granular chlorine for a quick boost when I need it.  I also use vinyl pool shock every two weeks. I only use chemicals made for vinyl pools.

If at any time you see your water clarity change in any way run the filter non stop until the water clears.  This is the one thing few people do and it will save you so much headache in the long run.  If you need to shock the pool or have your water tested that's fine.  Just let the filter run, even if it takes a few days.

above ground pool cleaner
Automatic pool cleaners are a real blessing when used correctly.  They can also chew up your pool liner if left unattended.  Make sure your pool cleaner is set up to stay in motion most of the time and then use it only when you need to keep the pool clean.  It should not be used every time the filter runs, that is too much wear and tear on the liner.

If you need to hand vacuum on occasion keep the vacuum head away from the edge of the pool.  The vacuum head against the pool wall will create small pinholes all around the pool, right at the base, where the wall meets the cove.

It is extremely important for owners of above ground pools to always keep water in your pool.  Vinyl lined pools should never be emptied except for changing the liner.  Everything else should be done with water in the pool.

And speaking of above ground pool care and automatic cleaners, this one is still my favorite.

Above Ground Pool Cleaner

Day by Day Pool Care

A monthly schedule can make pool care easier.

 Daily
- Skim off leaves, bugs, and debris
- Check that the pump and filter are running properly
- Make sure the water level is high enough for the skimmer to work
- If the pool gets heavy use, do a quick chlorine and pH check

2–3 times per week
- Test the water
- Adjust chlorine, pH, and alkalinity as needed
- Empty skimmer and pump baskets
- Check for signs of cloudy water or algae starting

Weekly
- Brush the pool walls and floor
- Vacuum the pool
- Clean the waterline if you see buildup
- Clean or rinse the filter if needed
- Shock the pool if it’s had heavy use, lots of rain, or the water looks dull

Monthly
- Inspect hoses, clamps, pump, and filter connections
- Do a more thorough filter cleaning
- Check the pool ladder, liner, and frame for wear or damage
- Review chemical use to make sure levels are staying stable

 

AGP Pool Help - Everything on this site about Above Ground Pools

 

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My name is Dennis Gourley and I am located in Mesa Arizona. I cover the entire state of Arizona with quality above ground pool installations and vinyl liner installations. Reach out to me at 480-935-2848 or use my contact form.