One of the questions we are asked most often by our clients is this: what should I actually do when I have a swimming pool? What does regular maintenance really involve? When should I use chemical products? What kind of water should I use to fill it?
These are completely normal doubts, especially for anyone approaching the world of swimming pools for the first time. Let’s go through it step by step and see the key operations you need to know.
Checking pH and Chlorine
Shock Chlorination
At the start of the summer season and then every 2, 3, or 4 weeks—depending on how often the pool is used, the number of people, and the water temperature—it is necessary to perform a shock chlorination.
Before adding chlorine, it is essential to check the pH level and adjust it if necessary. Only after this can the correct amount of chlorine be added to effectively reduce bacterial contamination in the water.
pH and Chlorine Levels
At least once a week, you should check pH and chlorine using the appropriate test kit, correcting the values if they are outside the ideal range.
Automatic Control System
An automatic control system can save time because it manages pH and chlorine levels automatically.
However, it’s important to remember that at the end of the season, the system must be winterized: the probes should be removed, cleaned, and stored safely, and the various components should be cleaned. Even with an automatic system, shock chlorination must still be performed according to the recommended schedule.
Filter Cleaning
Filter Media
At least once a week, the filter—usually made of sand—should be cleaned using the backwash procedure.
If using alternative filter media, such as glass, cleaning can be done every 3–4 weeks.
Pump Pre-Filter
The pump is equipped with a pre-filter that traps larger debris in a basket. When the basket is dirty, it can be easily removed by unscrewing the transparent cover (with the pump turned off) and cleaned manually.
Water Replacement and Which Water to Use
At the start of the season, it is recommended to replace at least half of the pool’s water. This significantly reduces chemical buildup over time.
The cost of replacement water is usually lower than the cost of chemicals needed to maintain old water. Starting with fresh water also reduces maintenance issues during the season.
The best water to use is tap water or water of similar quality, already treated and free from harmful bacteria. Well water, on the other hand, often contains nitrates, nitrites, and limescale, making it difficult to treat and bring to safe chemical levels even with chemicals.
For example, filling a 10 x 5-meter pool costs around 120 euros, assuming an average price of 2 euros per cubic meter. Using tap water is therefore more convenient than well water, which would require higher chemical costs for disinfection.
Even during the season, small top-ups with tap water, for example once a month, benefit the pool.
Note: for public pools, it is mandatory to replace 2.5% of the water daily or 20 liters per user.
Replacing the Filter Media
The condition of the filter media—sand or glass—should be checked at least once a year. When necessary, the media should be topped up.
Complete replacement depends on the type of material used. For sand, replacement is usually required every 3–4 years.
Waterline Cleaning
(only for skimmer pools)
At least once a week, and whenever needed, it is important to clean the waterline where greasy residues can accumulate, forming a dark line around the pool perimeter.
Using a specific product, scrub the area with a soft sponge and rinse immediately with pool water. If the product dries, removal becomes much more difficult.
Failing to clean the waterline can cause permanent stains on the PVC lining. It is essential not to use non-specific products or tools and always consult your trusted supplier.
This operation is especially important. Failing to clean the waterline regularly can cause irreparable damage. We have had clients who were not properly informed and ended up with a waterline that could no longer be restored.
Manual waterline cleaning is therefore essential. This is not necessary for infinity pools, which have this as an advantage.
General Pool Cleaning
The pool should be kept clean based on needs and environmental conditions. Cleaning can be done in two ways.
Manual cleaning is done using a pool vacuum, which is passed over the entire pool surface. It is a lightweight and easy-to-handle tool, suitable even for young users.
Alternatively, an automatic pool cleaner can be used, which cleans the bottom and walls autonomously. However, it does not clean the stairs, which must be done manually, nor the waterline, which must always be cleaned by hand. Despite what some manuals claim, the robot does not perform this function effectively.
Pool Opening and Closing Operations
During seasonal pool opening and closing, some technical operations are required.
Clients can choose to rely on professionals or carry them out themselves, as these are generally simple procedures.
Dedicated Support for Our Clients
When delivering the pool, Professione Piscina provides clients with a clear and simple manual, explaining all these operations in detail. A skilled technician also supports the client in the first steps, including practical exercises, until they feel completely confident.
We also offer our clients the option to subscribe to weekly or monthly maintenance contracts, as well as seasonal opening and closing services.
