Summer will be here soon, bringing those refreshing dips in the backyard pool and soaking in the spa. “Before diving in, take the time now for a thorough pre-season inspection,” reminds James Vidito, owner of Central Coast Pool and Spa, “and get all the maintenance and repairs done before the first day of swim weather arrives.”
Keeping pools and spas in good repair in and near Paso Robles, Templeton, and Atascadero is a top priority for Central Coast Pool and Spa. Answering questions about inspections and maintenance is one way the company helps keep customers informed and their pools and spas in top working condition. Frequently asked questions include:
- What’s the first step to getting a pool ready for summer?
- What equipment needs inspection?
- How soon is the water ready for a swim?
Uncovering the pool is step one. But, before removing the cover, clean the cover by removing any debris on it. Also, inspect it for tears or other damage. Ideally, repair any damage before removing it. It’s already open and making repairs is much easier. Additionally, retracting the cover, or putting it away before repairs might cause further damage. Well-maintained good-quality pool covers last from five to ten years. It’s well worth the time to inspect and repair the cover.
Once the cover is removed, clean the pool. Skim off any floating debris and use the pool vacuum to remove settled dirt and sediment. Use a pool brush to scrub away grime or algae. A pool cleaning solution might be in order for a thorough cleaning.
What equipment needs inspection?
Inspect the pump, filter, and pool heater before running them. Not every pool owner has the confidence or time to inspect the equipment. Calling a professional pool and spa repair service in Paso Robles, Templeton, Atascadero, or nearby, makes sure the pool equipment gets the best professional attention.
An equipment inspection involves:
- Checking for leaks around the pump and connections.
- Cleaning the filter. The cleaning process differs depending on the filter type.
- Inspecting the pool heater for leaks or damage; if it’s a gas heater, be sure the gas lines are secure and functioning properly
How soon is the water ready for a swim?
The final step is making the water clear, clean, and inviting. Add water if necessary then check the water chemistry. Here are the key elements to test:
- pH: This measures the acidity or alkalinity of your water. Ideal pH levels for swimming pools are between 7.2 and 7.8. If your pH is outside this range, you’ll need to add a pH increaser or de-creaser to adjust it.
- Alkalinity: This acts as a buffer, preventing rapid changes in pH. Maintaining proper alkalinity levels helps keep your pH stable.
- Chlorine (or Sanitizer): This is crucial for killing bacteria and algae in your pool. For chlorine pools, ensure the free chlorine level falls within a healthy range (typically 1-3 ppm). For alternative sanitizers like bromine, consult the manufacturer’s recommended levels.
There’s more to balancing the water chemistry than just adding chemicals. Each chemical needs to be added in specific amounts and the water tested after each addition. The balance between pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer is sensitive. It can take more than one session to get the balance correct. Generally, wait about 10 minutes after adding chemicals before testing again.
The order of adding chemicals is important, and adding an algaecide also affects the chemical balance.
Central Coast Pool and Spa can simplify the process of balancing the water chemistry. The experience of servicing and maintaining hundreds of pools since 2013 is certainly a benefit for pool owners. What might seem like a chemistry pop quiz with trick questions to many pool owners is second nature for the pool and spa repair and maintenance company.
Not only can the team maintain and repair pools and spas in Paso Robles or nearby, but the technicians take the time to explain how to add chemicals and test for optimal balance.
Rely on Central Coast Pool and Spa to deliver top pool and spa repair service and maintenance in Atascadero, Templeton, Paso Robles, and other areas of North County. The company provides a full range of services that keep local pools, spas, and hot tubs maintained in peak condition.
Central Coast Pool and Spa
Paso Robles, CA 93446
(805) 610-6545