Swimming pools in Florida see a lot of use – our warm, sunny climate allows us to chill by the pool almost year-round. Since our pools tend to be used so often, keeping them clean is essential. Here are some tips for pool maintenance Florida homeowners should keep in mind to keep their pools in tip-top shape.
How To Keep Pools In Florida Clean
Florida pools can be used most of the year, which is why regular pool care is key. As top Miami pool builders, many of our clients employ pool cleaning services for upkeep. If you decide to take care of your pool yourself, you need to do the following on a regular basis:
Daily cleaning
The surface needs to be skimmed daily to remove debris, and you should vacuum the pool every week to keep the water clear.
Monitor water levels
Even with a filter system, appropriate water levels need to be maintained. Keep an eye on the water level and add water when necessary to compensate for evaporation. The Florida heat can do a number on water levels, and Florida pools typically need to have more water added than in less humid climates.
Check the chemical balance
You should test the water chemistry at least twice a week and adjust chemicals to maintain the correct balance. If the chemical balance is off, algae can grow and pose a hazard.
Inspect equipment
You should regularly inspect and clean the pool filters, as clogged or dirty filters can damage your pool. While you’re at it, you should also ensure that pumps are operating efficiently.
Keeping Your Miami Swimming Pool Clean During Hurricane Season
While it almost never gets cold enough to snow in Miami, swimming pools in Florida do require extra maintenance during hurricane season. After a storm or hurricane, here’s what you should do to keep your pool clean.
Skim debris
First, use a skimmer or leaf net to get rid of any floating debris from the pool surface and bottom. Get the larger debris out first; you’ll deal with the smaller particles later. Algae thrives on plant matter and pollen, and removing any debris blown into your pool by the storm promptly is essential to prevent staining.
Clean out pump strainer and skimmer baskets
Turn the system power off and thoroughly clean the skimmer baskets and the pump strainer. Storms often blow significant amounts of debris into these areas, potentially clogging the water flow.
Inspect electrical equipment and turn the power on
Before the pool equipment can be restarted, make sure to check for signs of water damage. If you see any water damage or anything that could be a safety concern, call an electrician – do NOT try to turn equipment back on yourself. Damaged equipment can not only damage your pool but also be a potential safety hazard.
Clean the pool filter
Storms often blow dirt, dust, and small particles into the pool water, and you’ll need to clean the filter thoroughly according to manufacturer guidelines. If you have a DE filter, replace the DE media. If you have cartridge filters, clean or replace the cartridges.
Adjust the water level
Heavy rains often cause pool water levels to rise, causing surface skimmers to malfunction. Use the discharge line at the equipment location to adjust water levels.
Clean pool walls and floor
Vacuum the pool thoroughly to waste to prevent the filter from clogging. Brush the floor and walls to get rid of debris until water clarity reaches appropriate levels.
Balance chemistry
Microscopic contaminants can live in even clear water. Elevate chlorine levels to 10.0 ppm to shock your pool, let it reduce to around 30 ppm, and then balance your water chemistry.
Run circulation and filtration systems
Continue running your circulation and filtration systems until the pool water clears. Monitor and clean the skimmer and pump baskets, keeping tabs on the filter pressure and cleaning as necessary.
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FAQs
How should I keep my pool clean in Florida?
Florida’s humid climate means pool owners need to be extra vigilant about checking water levels and maintaining their filters.
How should I clean my Florida pool after a storm?
- Skim debris promptly to prevent algae growth
- Clean pump strainer and skimmer baskets
- Inspect electrical equipment before turning on
- Adjust water level
- Clean pool walls and floor
- Balance chemistry
- Run circulation and filtration systems
How often should I check the chemical balance of my pool?
You should check the chemical balance at least once or twice a week to prevent algae growth.
