Maintaining Your Inground Swimming Pool: Tips and Tricks

backyard of home with inground swimming pool surrounded by garden

Imagine stepping out into your backyard on a hot summer day and being greeted by the sparkling blue water of your inground swimming pool. It’s the ultimate oasis, offering both relaxation and fun. 

But to keep that dream alive, regular pool maintenance is essential. A well-maintained pool not only looks beautiful but also ensures the safety and enjoyment of everyone who dives in.

Use this guide to learn simple yet effective tips for keeping your inground swimming pool in top shape. Whether you’re a new pool owner or someone looking to refine your pool care routine, you’re in the right place!

Why Pool Maintenance Is a Must

Owning an inground swimming pool can be one of the most fun investments you make for your home. Yet, without proper maintenance, it can quickly become more of a headache than a haven. 

Regular maintenance ensures that your pool remains clean, safe, and inviting. It prevents the buildup of harmful bacteria and algae, protects pool equipment from damage, and saves you money in the long run by helping you avoid costly repairs.

When you neglect pool maintenance, you risk damaging your pool’s structure and systems. Water chemistry can easily become unbalanced, leading to issues like scale buildup, corrosion, and unsightly stains. Regular attention to your pool’s needs keeps these issues at bay and ensures you enjoy a pristine swimming experience.

Additionally, maintaining your pool is about more than just cleanliness. It extends the lifespan of your pool and its components, making your investment last for years to come. A well-maintained pool enhances the aesthetic appeal of your backyard, boosting the overall value of your property.

Tips for Proper Inground Swimming Pool Maintenance

As inground swimming pool designers, we’ve seen a lot of pools in our time. From neglected, green water-filled pits to sparkling, well-cared-for oases, we know what it takes to keep your pool in top shape. Here are some tips for maintaining your inground swimming pool:

1. Keep the Water Clean and Clear

One of the most important aspects of pool maintenance is keeping the water sparkling clean. A clean pool is a welcoming pool! To achieve this, regularly skim the surface to remove leaves and debris.

Invest in a quality pool vacuum or a robotic cleaner to tackle dirt and grime that settles on the pool floor. By doing this routinely, you prevent the buildup of algae and bacteria which can cloud your water.

In addition to physical cleaning, maintaining the right chemical balance is crucial. Regularly test your pool water to ensure the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels are within the recommended range. Use this breakdown to determine the ideal levels for your pool:

  • pH: 7.4 – 7.6
  • Total Alkalinity: 80 – 120 ppm (parts per million)
  • Calcium Hardness: 200 – 400 ppm
  • Chlorine: 2 – 4 ppm

Balanced water chemistry not only protects swimmers but also prolongs the life of your pool and its equipment.

Don’t forget to backwash your pool filter regularly. Whether you have a sand, cartridge, or diatomaceous earth (DE) filter, keeping it clean ensures optimal performance. A clean filter helps maintain water clarity and reduces strain on your pool pump.

2. Control the Growth of Algae

Algae growth can turn your beautiful pool into a green nightmare. To keep algae at bay, it’s essential to maintain proper sanitizer levels. Chlorine is the most common sanitizer, but other options like bromine or saltwater systems can be effective too. Make sure to shock your pool regularly, especially after heavy use or rainstorms, to kill any lingering algae spores.

Brush the walls and floor of your pool weekly to remove algae and prevent it from gaining a foothold. Pay special attention to corners and crevices where algae can hide. Algaecides are another tool in your arsenal, providing an extra layer of protection against stubborn algae blooms.

If you notice algae starting to form, act quickly. The sooner you address the issue, the easier it will be to eliminate. Regular monitoring and maintenance can save you from the hassle and cost of a full-blown algae infestation.

3. Check and Maintain Pool Equipment

Your pool’s equipment plays a vital role in keeping everything running smoothly. Regularly inspect your pool pump, filter, heater, and other components for signs of wear or malfunction. Catching problems early can prevent more significant issues and costly repairs down the line.

Make sure to clean out your skimmer and pump baskets weekly to ensure proper water circulation. Clogged baskets can reduce the efficiency of your pump and lead to unnecessary wear and tear. Additionally, inspect pool lights and other electrical components to ensure they are functioning correctly and safely.

Schedule annual professional maintenance to have a trained technician examine all aspects of your pool system. They can identify potential problems that might not be visible to the untrained eye, ensuring your pool remains in excellent condition year-round.

Make Your Life Easier—Start With a Quality Pool Build

A well-designed and constructed pool is the foundation of easy maintenance. The materials used, the design of the pool, and the installation techniques all play a role in the pool’s ease of maintenance and longevity.

Choosing high-quality materials for your pool’s construction can make a significant difference. Durable materials like fiberglass, vinyl, and high-grade concrete are less prone to cracking and staining, reducing the need for frequent repairs.

Additionally, a well-constructed pool with efficient water circulation systems minimizes the risk of algae growth and chemical imbalances.

The design of your pool also impacts maintenance. Features like automated covers can help keep debris out and reduce evaporation. Efficient filtration systems and strategically placed returns promote optimal water circulation, preventing the buildup of stagnant water where algae can thrive.

Your Dream Pool Awaits With Zuniga

If you’re ready to take the plunge and invest in a high-quality inground swimming pool, you can trust Zuniga Pool Construction to get the job done right. Our team is dedicated to creating stunning, durable pools that make maintenance easy. 

With a focus on craftsmanship and customer satisfaction, Zuniga ensures your pool is not only a beautiful addition to your home but also a breeze to maintain.

Don’t wait any longer to transform your backyard into a personal paradise. Visit Zuniga Pools today for a free quote and start designing.