DIY Pool Care

HOW TO LOOK AFTER YOUR POOL

Cleaning your pool, to getting your chemical balance correct.

At Ipswich Pool and Spa Centre, we pride ourselves on maintaining a traditional approach to water testing, which we believe offers a level of precision and customisation that modern methods may not always provide.

Our commitment to using chemical testing methods stems from our understanding that each pool is unique, and the specific requirements can vary significantly based on several factors.

Even if you’re managing your own pool, bring your water sample to us for our professional water testing services.

When we conduct water testing, we utilize a range of chemical reagents that allow us to analyze the water’s chemical composition in detail. This hands-on approach enables us to assess critical parameters such as pH levels, chlorine concentration, alkalinity, and hardness. By doing so, we can ensure that the water is not only safe for swimming but also balanced for the type of pool you have.

One of the key advantages of our method is the ability to tailor the results to the individual specifications of your pool. For instance, the materials used in the construction of your pool—whether it is concrete, tiled, or fibreglass—can significantly influence the water chemistry. Each type of pool has its own set of requirements for optimal water balance. Concrete pools may require different levels of acidity and alkalinity compared to fibreglass pools, which can be more sensitive to chemical imbalances. By understanding these nuances, we can make precise adjustments to the water chemistry that are specifically suited to your pool type.

Additionally, we take into account the local climate of Ipswich, which can affect water quality and chemical stability. Factors such as temperature, humidity, and rainfall can all play a role in how quickly chemicals dissipate or how contaminants enter the pool. For example, during the hotter months, pools may require more frequent testing and adjustments to maintain proper chlorine levels, while heavy rainfall can dilute chemicals and alter pH levels.

By considering these environmental factors, we can provide recommendations that are not only effective but also practical for maintaining your pool throughout the year.

This is something that computing systems are not calibrated to do – they offer a generic result that may not be suitable for your swimming pool. 

Call the team at Ipswich Pool and Spa for expert advice on all your pool and spa needs.

WHAT YOU NEED TO CLEAN POOLS

New to pool maintenance or have one a newly installed swimming pool?

Maintaining a clean pool is essential for safety and enjoyment. Here’s an overview of the tools you’ll need for DIY pool cleaning which are all available in store.

  1. Pool Skimmer Net
    Removes debris like leaves and bugs from the surface.
    Frequency: Daily or every few days.

  2. Pool Brush
    Scrubs walls, steps, and tiles to prevent algae buildup.
    Frequency: Weekly.

  3. Manual or Automatic Vacuum
    Removes dirt and debris from the bottom of the pool.
    Frequency: Weekly to biweekly.

  4. Water Test Kit or Strips
    Measures pH, chlorine, and other chemical levels.
    Frequency: 2–3 times a week.

  5. Telescopic Pole
    Attaches to various tools (brush, skimmer, vacuum) for easy reach.

  6. Leaf Bagger or Rake
    Cleans large debris from the bottom of the pool.
    Frequency: As needed, especially after storms.

Too busy to keep up with pool maintenance?
Let us handle it for you!
Call our team today to schedule a monthly pool service and enjoy a sparkling clean pool year-round.

HOW OFTER SHOULD I RUN MY POOL PUMP & FILTERS?

Get the balance right to keep your pool crystal clear

The frequency at which you run your pool filter varies depending on the season due to differences in temperature, pool usage, and the rate at which debris and algae accumulate.

Summer

Duration: 8–12 hours per day.

Reason: Warmer temperatures and higher usage increase the demand for filtration to prevent algae growth and maintain water clarity. Intense sunlight also accelerates chlorine degradation, making consistent filtration more crucial.

Tip: Run the filter during the day, especially in peak sunlight hours, when the pool is most used, and algae are more likely to develop.

Winter

Duration: 4–6 hours per day.

Reason: Cooler temperatures reduce algae growth, chlorine usage, and evaporation. If the pool is covered or not frequently used, less filtration is required to keep the water clean.

Tip: Adjust the runtime to align with reduced chemical needs, but ensure regular circulation to prevent water stagnation.

© 2024 Created by Trondez