Pool Maintenance For New Pool Owners

Swimming pools are an amazing investment. They bring your family joy, entertainment, relaxation, healthy exercise, a place to cool down in the hot Texas summers, but there is no denying that they do require a bit of maintenance. Often new pool owners become slightly overwhelmed by the required maintenance their pool needs and aren’t sure how to get started. The good news is that once you get the hang of it and swing into a proper routine, taking care of your pool won’t be as much of a hassle. The first place you should start is by getting a basic understanding of how to keep your pool clean, its chemical levels balanced, and its circulation running.  

Keeping up good pool circulation

If your pool is well designed, it will have a natural vortex-type of feature that will naturally encourage dirt, debris, and particles to be pulled into the filtration system. Pools that have good circulation are easier to take care of and have less problems with buildup of dirt, algae growth, and murky water.

Keeping your pump and filter system running properly each day will help ensure healthy pool water circulation. While it is ideal to keep your pool’s pump running 24/7, that isn’t the most affordable option for every pool owner. It is suggested to have your pool pump running at least 10 to 12 hours a day.

Another way to promote healthy pool circulation is by backwashing your filter regularly. Backwashing one’s filter means reversing the flow of the water through the filter system and disposing of the dirty water and build up. How to do this is dependent upon your type of filter, which you will need to identify specifically.

Keeping your pool clean

Keeping your pool clean is not only important for aesthetic reasons, but it is vitally important for health reasons. A dirty pool can cause skin irritations such as rashes, and even illness. Although you cannot see it with the human eye, there is a ton of little bacteria that will build up in your pool without proper cleaning. From the weather elements bringing in leaves, mold and algae spores, and swimmers bringing in sweat, perfume, hair products, makeup etc., there are multiple contaminates that your pool is constantly exposed to.

If you have gotten down the circulation part of your pool, then you are already a huge step ahead in keeping it clean. You will need a few basic tools, which include a net skimmer, a pool vacuum, and a pool brush.

You should skim, brush, and vacuum your pool at a minimum of once each week. To help keep your pool clean and cut back on the amount of time you are spending doing so, you may want to consider investing in an automatic pool cleaner. While you will still need to engage in skimming and brushing, it will still make your job a lot easier.

Keeping your chemical levels balanced

Pool chemistry is often one of the scariest parts to new pool owners, but don’t worry, once you get the hang of it it’s not difficult. As for tools, you will need to start with a water testing kit. To understand balancing your pool’s water, you must understand the chemicals it consists of.

The basics of your pool’s water chemistry are:

  • The pH Levels – pH levels refer to the acidity of your water. High pH levels mean acidic while low levels mean basic. You will want to keep your pH levels at about 7.4 to 7.6.
  • The Alkalinity – The alkalinity helps to keep the pH balanced, and the range should be about 100 to 150 pars per million (ppm).
  • The Sanitizer Levels – The sanitizer levels basically are in reference to any other chemicals that help to keep your pool sanitized, in simple terms, your chlorine.

Knowing your water chemistry levels, means you can start to understand balancing them out. It is important to take your time when starting out, follow all the directions closely, and ensure all the levels are balanced before letting people swim in the pool.

Aside of regular chemical balancing, you will also need to shock your pool every now and then. This is especially important after a big storm, as the weather elements such as the rain will have disturbed the balance of your pool. Simply follow the instructions that will come with the shock. You should shock your pool in the evening or at night when the sun has gone down as the UV rays can affect the shocking process.

Keeping a healthy pool first starts with building a well-designed one. If you are looking for a trusted pool builder in Hurst, here at Mid City Custom Pools we can help. Our highly recommended team can give you the pool of your dreams. Contact us today.

How to Winterize Your Pool?

Now that colder weather is here in Texas, good chances are that you are going to be closing your outdoor pool in Trophy Club down for the season. To keep your pool protected this winter from the freezing temperatures, you will need to winterize it. Winterizing your pool protects it from water freezing and bursting pipes and equipment as well as helps to keep it clean for the season in which you won’t be using it. Winterizing your pool properly will save you a lot of effort when the weather warms up and it is time to hop in again. Follow these steps to get your pool ready for winter hibernation.

Step #1 Check your pool’s levels
You will need to ensure that the chemistry of your pool’s water is balanced and leveled. Check the pool’s pH, total alkalinity, as well as the calcium hardness. It is important to ensure your chemicals are leveled to protect the pool from staining, etc. Add a winterized chemical kit to your pool to help keep it clean and clear during the winter season.

Step #2 Prepare your skimmer
During the winter time, if your pool isn’t properly winterized the freezing water can cause major damage to your pool’s filter system and plumbing. Lower the water level to below the opening of your skimmers, this is one of the places that you don’t want water to freeze. You can also consider purchasing a skimmer-protection device to help keep it safe this winter.

Step #3 Clear out the plumbing
You will want to clear out the plumbing of your pool by blowing water out of the lines. You can use a shop vac to complete this part of the process. After the water is removed from a line make sure to plug it at the pool end. Ensure that you use a plug that creates for a proper seal, either a threaded plug or rubber freeze plug should do the trick.

Step #4 Drain the filter
The next step is to drain the filter. There should be a plug at the bottom that you can undo to drain it. Make sure that you open the air relief valve at the top if there is one. You will then want to set the multiport valve to “closed” and remove the pressure gauge. You can then proceed to drain the pump. After you drain the pump you will want to quickly turn it on for just a second to ensure all the last bits of water are out. Make sure to not leave it on for more than just one second or two. You also want to ensure that you leave no chemicals in the feeder over the winter period.

Step #5 Drain out remaining equipment
The next pieces of equipment that you will need to drain are the chemical feeder, the automatic cleaner pump, the heater, as well as any other equipment with remaining water in it. An extra tip is to store your pressure gauge at room temperature to prevent freeze damage during the winter.

Step #6 Cover your pool
The final step is covering your pool. You will want to make sure that you have a good quality cover to protect your pool from any harsh winter weather. It is up to you as to whether or not you choose a mesh cover or a solid-surface cover, both are great, and it is up to your preference in which you want to use to keep your pool clean and protect this season.

Your pool is an investment and a commitment, and it is important to take proper care of it to ensure you keep it in good health. While winter can sometimes be a time in which you don’t use your pool very much, it is also a great time to consider upgrades and renovations. If you are looking for a trusted pool builder in Trophy Club, turn to our experts here at Mid City Custom Pools. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, contact us today.

How To Keep Your Pool Leaf Free This Fall

It is Fall here in Texas, and that means cooler weather, tea by the fire, the leaves changing colors, and unfortunately, those leaves falling into your pool. Your pool is a big investment and a beautiful addition to your backyard, that means, you want to keep it that way, clean, clear, and beautiful.

When it comes to pool maintenance in Southlake, we understand Texas can cause difficulty with its weather and quick changing of seasons. Unfortunately, pools attract all of the falling leaves during the autumn months and keeping your pool clean can require a lot of maintenance. As a pool owner, you know that keeping your pool clean is a direct determination of your pool’s health, in terms of its filters, pumps, drains, etc. So, the question is, now that it is that time of the year that the leaves are falling, how can you keep those leaves from falling into your pool?

Use a Pool cover

There are certain covers that are designed especially for keeping those pesky leaves out of your beautiful pool. Usually these pool covers are made out mesh or net material to catch the leaves and debris. You will need to take the leaf cover off once or twice a week and empty the leaves that have been caught and gathered onto its surface. While leaves and debris can stain a “normal” pool cover, or winter pool cover, you can even use this special leaf cover on top of those for easy cleaning.

Address it from the source (trim your trees)

If you have an immense amount of leaves falling into your pool, you may want to consider addressing it from the source, the trees that is. If you have trees in your backyard, and especially over your pool, you may want to consider trimming back the branches to help prevent so much leaf fall.

Install a pool fence

A fence is a great way to keep leaves and other debris from blowing into your pool from the fall wind. If you don’t wanting to put a pool fence directly around your pool, you may want to consider the type of fence in your backyard. If you have a solid wood fence or retaining walls, then you won’t have as much of an issue with outside debris making its way in.

Try a Leaf Gulper or Robotic Skimmer

There are various gadgets that are designed to help you clean your pool. Two great ones for leaves are a leaf gulper and robotic skimmer. The leaf gulper works by utilizing the power of water (you hook it up to your garden hose) and circulates and sucks the leaves into a bag. The robotic skimmer is a more expensive option but works by sending out signals to specify the location of leaves and sucks them up.

Keeping your backyard beautiful means having a clean and clear pool. If you are interested in utilizing the cooler months to install a pool or renovate your pool, here at Mid City Custom Pools, we can help. As a highly trusted and recommended pool builder in Southlake, we want to make your backyard dreams a reality. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, contact us today.

How To Remove Swimming Pool Stains

Pools here in Texas are quite common, as we have to find a way to escape the Texas summer heat. A pool is a great way to keep cool, spend time with your friends and family, keep your kids entertained, add major aesthetic appeal to your backyard, and add investment value to your home. To keep your pool in swimmable condition and looking beautiful requires maintenance. A pool that is dirty or contains stains can become unsafe to swim in and is not nice to look at.

It is natural for pool stains to appear over time. Regular maintenance and proper cleaning can help keep these stains at bay, however sometimes they are just inevitable. Certain pool stains are pretty simple to get rid of while others can prove to be quite difficult. Knowing what the stains are, where they came from, and how they got there will help you with the removal of those stains. Often these stains on the walls or floor of your swimming pool can be caused by either metal in the water or certain materials left in the pool such as leaves and dirt. Your first indicator of a stain will likely be its color. Follow these steps to diagnose and remove pool stains:

Step #1 Identify the color of the stain in order to categorize the cause

Identifying the color of the stain in your pool will help you classify the cause of the stain. There are two main categories of pool stains, being metal stains and organically-caused stains. There are a few color combinations to look out for: greenish-brown, reddish-blue, blue-green-black, greenish-brown-red, pinkish-red, brown-black-purple. Look at the stain closely to try and categorize the color combination.

Step #2 Checking if your pool stains are organically-caused

Pool stains that are organically caused are usually a result of dirt and debris like leaves, algae, worms, berries, dead animals, etc. Removing this type of debris right away will prevent these stains. However, if the debris isn’t removed from the top it will sink to the bottom causing these stains. Organic stains are usually greenish, brownish, or bluish-purple. If you still see the debris on the bottom of the floor this may be a clear sign.

To remove the organic stain:

  • You will want to first make sure your pool is clear of all debris. Next, you will want to try taking a small amount of chlorine and applying it directly onto the stain. Take a soft brush and lightly scrub the stain. Usually organic stains will resolve easily from this action and metal ones will not.
  • If the stains seem more permanent, you may want to try acid washing your pool. Only engage in acid washing your pool about every five years or you could cause permanent damage to the plaster of your pool.
  • You can also try an enzyme shock treatment along with a hard-bristled scrub brush to remove organic stains. This is best for when the stain is around the waterline of the pool.
  • Try shocking your pool with chlorine. Another way to remove organic stains is by shocking your pool. After the shocking process, use a brush to scrub the stains. You should only try this with plaster pools. If you aren’t sure of the material of your pool, you may want to ask your pool builder in Hurst.
  • Try muriatic acid and scrub brush. Pour the acid onto a piece of PVC pipe and then onto the stain and scrub gently. Afterwards you will want to shock your pool. 

Step #3 Checking if the stain is metal-based or caused by some other inorganic substance

Corrosion is natural over time with any metal substances involved. Various metals that can lead to metal stains are rust, manganese, copper, and iron. The most common metal substances that cause pool stains are iron, copper, and manganese. The smallest amount of copper can become oxidized in your pool and leave behind difficult stains. Pipes and ladders and other exposed metals can lead to these types of stains. Poor pool maintenance can also contribute to the formation of metal stains as well.

While knowing the exact metal that caused the stain is necessary for removal, these types of stains most often require the professional assistance. You will likely need to take a water sample in or have someone come to you. A special additive will need to be prescribed in order to move the metal stains.

To remove the metal stain:

  • Buy a metal removal product for your skimmer basket. This product will sit in your skimmer for up to a month.
  • Try removing metal stains with ascorbic acid. You can add the acid evenly to the pool water (about a ½ pound per 10,000 gallons in the pool). Set your filter to circulate and turn on. Leave it for half an hour and then check to see if your stains are gone. Try again for another half hour if you still see stains.
  • Make sure you have a healthy chemical balance in your pool. This is very important to ensure that your pool doesn’t stain permanently. Making sure all the chemicals are balanced will help in the relief of stains.

One way to ensure your pool doesn’t suffer from stains is by engaging in regular pool maintenance. Mid City Custom Pools is a highly recommended and trusted pool company and swimming pool builder in Hurst. If you have any questions or are interested in building the pool of your dreams, contact us today.

The Ultimate Guide To Shocking Your Pool

In order to preserve your pool’s beauty as well as its safety, it is important to maintain it.  Part of maintaining it means keeping the water clean, clear, and healthy and the chemicals in check. A normal addition and a very important part of pool care is occasionally shocking your swimming pool. It is a must to have the knowledge on how to do this properly in order to keep your water healthy, clear, and free from algae. While you can hire someone to do this, why not save your money by learning how to do it yourself. As a swimming pool builder in Trophy Club, take our word for it and use this guide to help you along in the process of self-shocking your pool.

What exactly is shocking your pool?

Shocking your pool simply put means intensively chlorinating it for an extended amount of time to make sure any bacteria or algae is evacuated.

Why do I need to shock my pool?

There are certain germs that can only be removed by shocking your pool. These organisms can be harmful to your pool water unless eradicated. Normal chlorine input isn’t enough to get the job done as the sun breaks down chlorine over time, swimmers bring in germs, and rain can dilute your pool water.

When should I shock my pool?

Many pool owners don’t shock their pools often enough. Don’t wait until your pool becomes cloudy to do this, rather shock your pool according to the following times:

  • Before you hop into your pool for the summer season
  • Before you prepare your pool for the winter season
  • After any heavy storms
  • After heavy usage and increased swimming/swimmers
  • Any time you spot algae

How do I shock my pool?

Follow these easy steps to shock your pool:

#1 The first step in shocking your pool is to make sure that you are protected. Pool shock is an intense chemical and can be harmful to your skin and ruin your clothing. Make sure that you are protected by wearing gloves and protective eyewear, as well as a pair of old clothes that you don’t mind possibly ruining.

#2 Read the instructions that came with your pool shock kit and prepare the chemicals accordingly. Some types of shock need to be prepared and dissolved in the water beforehand while others can be applied straight to the pool. Determine the size of your pool and adjust the levels of shock accordingly.

#3 Next, you will begin to shock your pool. Follow the instructions that came with your kit to then pour the shock solution into the pool. The instructions may vary according to the type of shock you are using so just make sure to read them carefully and follow them accordingly.

#4 The next step is simply to let it be. Make sure to identify from the instructions when the pool is safe for swimming again, as there will be an allocated amount of time. Often it is recommended to just leave the pool overnight.

#5 After you have let your pool sit with the shock for the allocated amount of time you will need to test the pool’s chlorine levels. It is important to ensure that the levels have returned to normal before letting anyone get into the water.

Mid City Custom Pools is a trusted custom pool company and pool builder in Trophy Club. If you have any questions about designing, building, or renovating your pool, we would be happy to help. Call us today and let’s get started on the pool of your dreams.

How Often Should a Pool be Serviced?

Having a swimming pool is an amazing luxury and great financial investment for your home, however, to keep it that way it must be properly cared for. It is summer here in Texas and that means spending a lot of time in your backyard and in your pool to try and keep cool in this harsh summer heat. With all the time, you are going to be spending in your backyard and in your pool, it is necessary that it is properly cleaned and serviced, for aesthetic purposes as well as safety purposes. Cleaning and serving your pool should be a priority as a pool owner, for the following reasons:

Keeping your pool and loved ones healthy

Keeping your pool regularly cleaned and making sure that your chemicals are in check is dire for the health of your pool and those who are swimming in it.

Saving yourself financially in the long run

By regularly maintaining, cleaning, and servicing your pool, you will end up saving money in the long run. If you don’t keep your pool healthy it will likely lead to big costs down the road such as premature pump repair or replacement and other clogs or damage that could have been prevented.

Keeping your pool clear and beautiful

With the thought, time, money, and effort you have put into your pool and backyard, keeping it beautiful and clean and looking bright should be a priority.

Your pool is an investment that has beneficial value for the future

Also, to be considered when it comes to looking into the future is that pools have major investment benefits, this is of course only if they are continuously looked after.

With these reasons in mind as to why it is so important to keep your pool within a regular cleaning and servicing schedule, you will also need to know how often this is necessary to maintain your pool’s health. The truth of it is that your pool will likely need some sort of looking after almost every day. This means emptying the skimmers and using the net to grab extra debris. However, it is, of course, dependent upon the season as to how much cleaning you will need to engage in.

Weekly

Pool service in Trophy Club should be engaged in once a week. You will want to have your pool’s pH levels checked weekly to ensure your pool keeps healthy. You also may need to shock the pool if it is necessary. With a pool vacuum, you will have to worry a little bit less when it comes to clearing the pool with a net and cleaning out the skimmers. However, you will also need to maintain the cleaning of the pool vacuum to ensure it can do its job properly.

Bi-weekly

Twice a week you will want to clear out your pool’s various filters. You may also need to clean the pool’s tiles or plaster twice a week as well. This will help to ensure that your pool keeps clear of unwanted bacteria, that the filters continue to run smoothly, and that there won’t be a growth of algae in the pool. 

When it comes to having a healthy and happy pool your best bet is turning to the professionals. If you have questions about building or updating a swimming pool in your backyard, call us today. Here at Mid City Custom Pools, our priority is your satisfaction. Don’t hesitate to contact us today.

Is your pool ready for the summer? 

It’s everybody’s favorite time of year again. If you have experienced a summer here in Texas, then you know that means BBQ’s, backyard parties, and a lot of time spent in the pool trying to cope with the intense heat. With the change of seasons, it is always important to make sure you prepare your pool for the weather conditions. Your swimming pool is an investment, so of course, you want to make sure you are doing your best when it comes to properly taking care of it. Let’s discuss a few ways to ensure that your pool is ready for the summer.

Step #1 Make sure you have all the necessary supplies

Before preparing your pool for the summer, you will want to make sure that you have all the necessary supplies. These generally include:

  • The necessary chemicals (chlorine, pH alkalinity, chlorine stabilizer, shock)
  • Testing kit or test strips
  • Telescopic pole
  • Skimmer head
  • Vacuum hose
  • Vacuum head
  • A pool brush
Step #2 Clean it up

Before taking off your pool cover, it is best to make sure that the surrounding area is clean so you don’t create even more of a mess for yourself. Use a leaf blower or rake to clear the deck and surrounding pool area, and make sure you get all the dirt and debris off the pool cover itself. You will also want the pool cover to be clean before storing it. During this cleanup time, you will also want to go ahead and clean out your baskets and filtration system.

Step #3 Start your filter and pump

Go ahead and get your filter and pump running. You may be surprised to find that your pool has slightly changed colors during the winter and spring months. It could appear cloudy or different colors of green; you must be prepared for the possibility that it won’t appear the way you left it. Keep your filter and pump running until the pool is back to crystal clear. After you have gotten your pool back to normal, you can run your filter system for about half of the day (10 – 12 hours).

Step #4 Check your water levels and balance your chemicals

If your pool has lost some of its water levels during the winter and spring months, you will want to refill. Next, you will want to use your test strips to check the chemical levels of your pool. You could either have a professional come do it, or you can take a sample of your pool water to a nearby pool supply store. When checking your pool’s levels, you will want to be sure to analyze the total and free chlorine (or sanitizer that you use), the pH and alkalinity, the calcium hardness, and the cyanuric acid or chlorine stabilizer.

Step #5 You may need to shock the pool

If you’d like to ensure your chlorine levels are good and your bacteria levels are low, you may want to consider shocking your pool as this helps raise chlorine levels and kill any remaining bacteria or old chlorine. Lastly, just sit back, relax, and enjoy your pool! If you have more questions about getting your swimming pool ready for the summer, don’t hesitate to contact us here at Mid City Custom Pools.

Post Rain Pool Tips

Spring has definitely sprung here in Texas, which means rain, and lots of it. While we certainly can’t predict the weather, it’s safe to say we will see our fair share of rain in the coming weeks. In some cases, you may have a little heads up from the local weather forecasters that a storm is on its way, but other times you may be caught off guard. If you own a pool, a heavy rain can create quite the challenge. Not only does rain often bring lots of foreign objects and debris, but it can completely throw off your pool’s pH balance. Rainwater and debris can impact your pool’s water chemistry, putting additional strain on your equipment.

In order to reduce any potential problems this spring and summer, it’s important you know what to do in the hours and days following a heavy rainfall. Not only will your pool likely be full of leaves, dirt, dust, and other plant matter, but you may also have extra water in the pool, which can dilute the chemistry. Keep in mind that a few light showers here and there shouldn’t send you into a panic, but if a big storm comes through and you don’t have time to put the cover on, take the following post-rain steps into consideration:

  • Clean the Pool – This first one is probably common sense, but always clean your pool thoroughly following a heavy rain. Depending on the nature of the storm, you may notice lots of leaves, dust, and other debris in the pool, as well as extra water. Start by skimming the pool’s surface and then vacuum the pool using an automatic pool cleaner. Once it’s cleaned up, you can analyze the water chemistry and make sure all levels are correct. 
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  • Test Your Water – The first thing you should do following a heavy rainfall is test your pool’s water. It is always a good idea to double check your pool water balance, stabilizer, and sanitizer levels. This can be done with an at-home kit, or one of the knowledgeable technicians from Mid City Custom Pools would be happy to advise you.
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  • Test Alkalinity and pH Levels – Once you test the water, check your pool’s pH and alkalinity. Heavy rain can cause the pool’s pH level to drop, which can also impact the alkalinity levels.
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  • Check the Level of Water – If it rains a lot, it will, of course, add a lot of extra water to your pool. If there is too much water, you can try using your pool’s “waste” setting in order to drain it. All you have to do is let the pool drain until it is back to its normal level – it’s as easy as that!
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  • Inspect Your Pool Equipment – Once you’ve checked all the levels and cleaned your pool, it’s time to inspect your pool equipment. When there is a big storm, there is a chance your equipment may become damaged. Make sure nothing is faulty and there are no damaged machines. In the event something is damaged, contact Mid City Custom Pools and chat with one of our representatives.

There’s no avoiding rain this Summer in Texas, so it’s important you know how to properly care for your pool this time of year. If you have any questions about the above or would like us to come out and take a look, please do not hesitate to contact our Southlake pool builders today.

Effect of Rain on Your Water Chemistry

With March well on its way and April just around the corner, it’s time to start talking about how the rain can affect your pool’s water chemistry. Many pool owners don’t think about this fact, but rain is very acidic, which means it can throw your pool’s entire pH balance out of whack. Why does this matter? Not only can it cause an uncomfortable swim session, but the water can actually become corrosive and damage various parts of your pool. While a little bit of rain won’t do much, when we get one of those big, heavy rains Texas is famous for, it is of the utmost importance that you recheck and rebalance the chemicals in your pool to the best of your ability. If your water chemistry is not in balance because of rain when temps are around 60-70 degrees, it can lead to serious algae problems.

Here at Mid City Custom Pools, we strive to provide you with all the information and knowledge you need to properly care for your pool. We know how intimidating and overwhelming this can be, especially for first-time pool owners, but if you want your pool to last without breaking the bank, you must stay on top of maintenance needs like this. If you ever have any questions or aren’t sure what to do, please do not hesitate to contact Mid City Custom Pools.

What to Do After a Heavy Rainfall

As mentioned, rain can sometimes affect the water chemistry of your pool, namely because it is so acidic. After a heavy rain, it is not uncommon to have a lot of extra water in the pool, which can actually dilute the chemistry and throw the pH balance completely off. While a few light showers shouldn’t do much damage, we still encourage you to test the chemicals and pH balance to make sure all is as it should be. Following a heavy rainfall, you should do the following:

  • Collect a sample of the water for testing to bring into Mid City Custom Pools to have us test it
    • It is important to test the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels to ensure the pool is safe for you and your family
  • Clean the pool
    • After it rains, it is quite common for dirt, leaves, and other debris to make its way into your pool. This can also increase the nitrogen and phosphorus levels, which can lead to the growth of algae and bacteria.
    • Always clean your pool thoroughly after a heavy rainfall to avoid the above
  • Check pH and alkalinity levels
    • Acidic rain can cause your pH to drop, which is where alkalinity comes in. Alkalinity often takes the biggest hit following a big rain, which can be a good thing as this means they are working to balance out the pH drop

 
Rain is hard and can lead to serious damage not only to your pool water but to the materials around it. Always test the water and recheck levels following a heavy rain, or give Mid City Custom Pools a call and we will be happy to help.

How to Avoid Algae Build-Up

One of the biggest problems home pool owners face is algae build-up. Because algae are living marine creatures that can multiply at a rapid rate, they can be frustrating for pool owners. There are many reasons why algae may invade your pool, but one thing to keep in mind is that they need warm, sunny weather in order to thrive. Hello, Texas! Yes, because of the climate here in Texas, algae build-up is a much more common problem than in many other parts of the country. Algae spores can make their way into the pool through rain, wind, or even contaminated swimming suits and equipment. If your pool is not well-balanced, it may be ripe for an algae invasion. This is why it is so important you check your chlorine levels and make sure everything is balanced. If not, you are at a much higher risk of an algae build-up.

While algae won’t harm swimmers, it is unsightly and downright annoying. Furthermore, it can be a landing place for harmful pathogens like E-coli bacteria, which no one wants to go swimming with! To prevent algae from growing in your pool, we encourage you to stay on top of your pool maintenance and give Mid City Custom Pools a call if you have any questions. We are happy to answer any questions and come out to take a look at your pool if you have any specific concerns.

Preventing an Algae Build-Up

Good news for pool owners – there are many ways to prevent and eliminate algae before it becomes a real problem! In addition to checking your pool’s chlorine levels and making sure everything is balanced and in check, keep the following in mind:

  • Check the circulation system to make sure it is working properly – Similar to the chlorine levels, your pool’s circulation system is a crucial element in preventing algae growth. Check and clean the skimmer and pump strainer baskets regularly and routinely clean your cartridge filter when the pressure gauge reads 8-10 psi higher than your normal level.
  • Shock the pool on a weekly basis – Get in the habit of shocking your pool on a weekly basis in order to eliminate any algae spores your other cleaning may have missed.
  • Get in a routine of ‘brushing’ the walls, floors, and steps – Pool walls, floors, steps, and any other surrounding areas are hotspots for algae growth. If left untreated, algae has a higher chance of getting into the little nooks and crannies that you may miss with regular cleaning. This is why brushing is so important! Brush the pool and its surrounding areas at least once a week to prevent algae from growing and invading your backyard oasis.
  • Get rid of dirt and debris with a vacuum – In addition to brushing, scrubbing, and staying on top of your pool’s maintenance, we also recommend using a vacuum to get rid of dirt and debris. This will help you eliminate the majority of dirt, debris, and other contaminants that may find their way into your pool without you even realizing it.

Algae is an unwanted visitor that can wreak havoc on your pool. If you have any additional questions about how to prevent algae build-up or about chlorine levels, please do not hesitate to contact Mid City Custom Pools today.