Owning a pool comes with countless benefits — relaxation, recreation, and quality time with family and friends. But to enjoy crystal-clear water all season long, weekly maintenance is essential. Whether you handle upkeep yourself or hire a professional, following a consistent routine prevents algae growth, equipment problems, and costly repairs.
Here’s a simple weekly checklist to help keep your pool in top condition.
1. Skim the Surface
Use a skimmer net to remove leaves, bugs, and other floating debris. This not only improves water clarity but also reduces the load on your filtration system.
2. Brush Walls, Steps, and Floor
Algae and dirt can cling to pool surfaces, especially in corners and around fixtures. Use a pool brush to scrub the walls, steps, and floor thoroughly to prevent buildup.
3. Vacuum the Pool
Vacuuming once a week removes debris that brushing and skimming miss. You can use a manual vacuum or an automatic pool cleaner, depending on your preference.
4. Empty Skimmer and Pump Baskets
Clean out the skimmer and pump baskets to maintain proper circulation and reduce strain on your pump and filter.
5. Check Water Level
Water should be at the midpoint of your skimmer opening. If it’s too low, the pump could run dry. If it’s too high, surface debris may not be pulled into the skimmer properly.
6. Test and Balance Water Chemistry
Use test strips or a liquid test kit to monitor your water's chemical levels. Adjust as needed to maintain the following ranges:
Proper chemical balance helps prevent cloudy water, corrosion, and algae growth.
7. Shock the Pool (As Needed)
Shocking the pool involves adding a high dose of chlorine to destroy organic contaminants. This is especially helpful after heavy pool use, storms, or if the water appears cloudy or smells strong.
8. Inspect Pool Equipment
Check your pump, filter, heater, and other equipment for any signs of wear or leaks. Listen for unusual sounds and make sure everything is operating smoothly.
Bonus Tips:
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Store floats, toys, and accessories when not in use to reduce contamination.
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Use an algaecide or clarifier as part of your weekly treatment if algae is a recurring problem.
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Keep a log of maintenance tasks and chemical levels to track trends and catch issues early.
Consistent Care Pays Off
Regular weekly maintenance helps extend the life of your pool and its equipment while keeping the water safe and inviting. If you’d rather leave it to the pros, our team offers reliable weekly service plans tailored to your pool's needs.
At All American Recreation, we have the most knowledgeable and experienced team ready to help with all your pool chemical care needs. Whether you’re balancing your pool water for the first time or troubleshooting ongoing issues, our experts provide trusted guidance every step of the way.
We offer a full selection of pool chemicals, water testing kits, chlorine, algaecides, and more—everything you need to keep your pool safe, clean, and crystal clear throughout the swimming season.
Visit us in-store or call us today for personalized pool care advice from your local Minnesota pool experts!