POOL CARE BASICS                      

Get the most out of your pool by following the five essential steps to basic pool maintenance.

• CIRCULATION

The more your water is in motion, the harder it is for bacteria and algae to take hold.  Maximize
your sanitizer's efficiency by circulating your pool water - preferably during the day, for 10 hours
or more.  Debris will also be captured by your filter more easily.

• FILTRATION

An essential piece of equipment, your filter removes both visible debris and most microscopic matter.
Check the manufacture's guidelines on backwashing - a process that removes material trapped on or
in the filter media.  A regular chemical cleaning is necessary since backwashing will not remove oils
and deeply embedded debris.

• CLEANING

Algae and bacteria can begin to grow in areas that have little or no circulation.  At least once a week,
brush and vacuum the walls and floor of your swimming pool.  Brushing is a must, even if you use
an automatic pool cleaner or retain a weekly service.

• TESTING

Certain pool elements must be regularly measured and adjusted, including free available chlorine,
TA and CH among others.  Most important are pH and the level of active sanitizer - both should be
tested weekly. 

• OPENING YOUR POOL

Avoid a summer filled with headaches by opening your pool the right way  With a well-ordered system,
you can prevent future problems and lay the groundwork for a pool care plan that's easy to maintain.
We 've outlined six important steps to help ensure a smooth, carefree opening for your pool.

1. Remove the pool cover: If you use a solid cover, drain off the water - but not into the pool.  Sweep
   the cover and clean it with BioGuard Stow Away to prevent sticking and unpleasant odors.  Store
   it in a dry place that's free of debris and protected from the sun and weather.
2. Fill the pool: Your pool must be filled to the middle of the skimmer opening to properly circulate.
3. Check your pump, skimmer basket and filter:  Make sure all equipment is clean and in working order.
   Start the circulation system and remove debris from the pool.  If the filter is dirty or wasn't cleaned
   before your pool was closed, remove grease and oil with BioGuard Strip Kwik.  For scale build up,
   use BioGuard Kleen it.
4. Bring in a water sample for testing: Circulate the water 24 to 48 hours before taking a water sample.
   Using a clean plastic container, scoop about a quart of water at elbow-depth from the pool.  Seal the
   container and take it to Albertville or Monticello Twin Cities Showroom locations for testing and analysis. 
5. Test sanitizer and pH levels: Use one of the BioGuard Test Kits or Test Strips to check the sanitizer
   residual and pH levels.  
6. Routine Maintenance:  Follow your recommended maintenance program.

• VACATION MAINTENANCE

While you're away, your unattended pool collects debris and bacteria that can upset water balance.
Before you pack your bags, contact us for an vacation maintenance plan.  After you return, just bring
in a water sample to make sure your pool is properly balanced and ready for swimming.

• CLOSING YOUR POOL

Winterizing is the most important thing you can do to make your spring pool opening as easy as possible.
There are enormous benefits to correctly closing your pool, including:

1. Protecting your pool surfaces and equipment
2. Keeping water looking its best all winter long
3. Protecting equipment from freeze damage
4. Saving money on extra maintenance when you open your pool

Whether you completely cover your pool or just reduce maintenance, BioGuard can make winterizing painless.