4 Above-Ground Pool Maintenance Tips

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A Guide to Owning an Above-Ground Pool

As beautiful as inground pools may seem, it is not always possible to install them in the backyard, either because of the cost, the available space, or the type of soil in the back. However, an above-ground pool can be an option to enjoy the water during the warmer months.

Above-ground pools range from budget models to more luxurious (and expensive) styles. Many can be enjoyed year-round and some use saltwater systems, which are popular with built-in models. Above-ground pools also have options for roofs and energy-efficient solar heating systems.

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Rub It In

Contemporary models may have improved features often seen on land-based models, including advanced filtration systems and pumps to keep them clean. However, even above-ground pools that have built-in systems need a little hands-on work on a regular basis to keep them clean and in good working order.

Follow a Maintenance Checklist

It's tempting to put off above-ground pool maintenance, but you'll pay for it later through water or pool liner issues, which are costly to fix. To ensure that you are taking proper care of your pool, follow a daily and weekly maintenance checklist.

Complete these tasks daily:

Test the pH level to ensure it's between 7.4 and 7.6.
Test the chlorine level, which should be between 2.0 and 4.0 ppm.
Run the pool filter for 12 to 18 hours.
Check the water level, which should be around mid-skimmer.
Empty the skimmer and pump baskets.
Check filter pressure and pump operation.

Once a week, complete these tasks:

Test total alkalinity to make sure it's between 80 and 120 ppm.
Skim the surface, vacuum, and brush the pool.
Properly dose with algaecide, clarifier, and metal control.
Clean the pool deck and surrounding area.
Add chlorine tablets.
If the pressure gauge rises 7 to 9 psi, backwash or clean the filter.

Ensure Water Circulation

Above-ground pools have problems with water circulation, which can allow algae to breed. This is particularly evident in pool dead spots, which generally have poor circulation, including behind stairs, around steps, under the skimmer, and in crevices, crevices or crevices.

The pool pump circulates the water, but sometimes it does not work well in these dead spots. You can improve the situation by installing return jets that are multi-directional but keep a pool brush available to manually circulate the water.

Don't Forget About the Walls

Pool walls need as much care as the water inside them. Avoid leaving guests sitting on the edge of the pool or on the top railing, which can cause damage and wrinkles or cracks on the sides.

Other hazards that can hit pool walls include falling tree limbs and children throwing objects or riding bikes in the pool.

Winterizing the Pool

If you don't use the pool year-round, you should winterize it at the end of each swimming season. That includes:

Thoroughly clean the pool and add a winter chemical kit to the water.
Remove chemicals, cleaning supplies, and pool ladder to store in a safe, dry area.
Run the filter for one hour before disconnecting the motor and pump, it should also be stored in a safe and dry place.
Lowering the water level below the return and skimmer. Do not drain the pool completely as it can be damaged by hydrostatic pressure.
Add pool antifreeze, not car antifreeze, to the plumbing and install threaded winter plugs to keep water out of the pipes.
Covering the pool with a winter cover.