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POOL
CARE BASICS
Get the most out of your pool
by following the five essential steps to basic pool maintenance.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
- 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.
- Fill the pool:
Your pool must be filled to the middle of the skimmer opening to
properly circulate.
- 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.
- 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.
- Test sanitizer
and pH levels: Use one of the BioGuard Test Kits or Test Strips to
check the sanitizer
residual and pH levels.
- Routine
Maintenance: Follow your recommended maintenance program.
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.
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:
- Protecting your pool surfaces and
equipment
- Keeping water looking its best all
winter long
- Protecting equipment from freeze damage
- 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.
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