Are you interested in getting a swimming pool for your backyard, but you're unsure about what kind of maintenance is involved? If so, it will help to know a few basic things that you'll need to do on a regular basis. 

Skim Debris From The Water

You will need to take a few steps to clean the pool on a regular basis. It starts by simply scooping debris out of the pool so that it doesn't break down in the water. This can be done with a pool skimmer net that goes on a long extension handle. It is common for pools to have a skimmer, which sucks the top layer of water into the skimmer to remove leaves, insects, and other debris. The skimmer basket needs to be emptied regularly as well.

Brush The Pool Walls And Vacuum The Floor

You'll also want to brush the walls of the pool weekly to help get the algae that sticks to the sides. Work your way from the top to the bottom of the pool so that it all falls on the pool floor. You can then use a pool vacuum to remove the algae on the bottom of the pool. There are robotic pool vacuums that will do the work for you, or you can purchase a handheld vacuum that you move on your own.

Clean And Replace The Filter

The pool filter will eventually need to be cleaned when it gets dirty and can no longer do its job efficiently. The frequency that you have to clean the filter will depend on how much your pool is used, how often you run the filter, and even the temperature outside. That's because warmer weather can cause algae to easily grow in the water. When the filter is beyond the point where it can be easily cleaned, you'll need to replace the filter with a new one.

Adjust The Chemistry Of The Water

Keeping your pool clean involves a lot of work with regularly testing the water and adjusting the chemistry. A water testing kit will help inform you about what kind of chemicals you need to add. This is done by dipping a test strip in the water, which will turn the strip a shade of color that can be paired to a scale. This informs you if certain chemicals are low or high, and what you need to add to keep the water clean and swimmable. 

For more information, contact a pool maintenance service near you.