As a homeowner, you most likely understand the importance of cleaning and repairs. From replacing shingles on your roof to mowing your lawn, these tasks are necessary for your home's value, appeal, and function. Unfortunately, you may not be placing enough time and energy into your pool. Considering a pool can offer a return on investment of 15 to 25 percent when you sell, ensuring it is clean and in good condition is essential for maximizing your profit. Of course, hiring professionals to maintain your home can become expensive. Using this guide on DIY pool cleaning, you can clean and protect your in-ground swimming pool.

Water Quality

Owning a pool requires a great deal of maintenance that can be overwhelming, but ensuring the quality of your water is safe and clean is imperative for your health and wellness. Be sure to have a water testing kit on hand at all times to test the chlorine levels.

While chlorine is necessary for keeping your pool water clean and safe, excessive levels can irritate your skin and eyes while also causing issues with your respiratory system. Be sure your pool water's chlorine levels range between 1.5 and 2.5.

To ensure your pool water is clean and safe, consider using salt-generated chlorine. This safer chlorine does not produce toxic chloramines, which create unappealing odors and harmful gases. However, salt-generated chlorine effectively kills bacteria inside your pool water.

Construction

Your swimming pool requires a detailed inspection on its interior and exterior construction, as well. Minor cracks and imperfections in the pool's interior or surrounding tile, concrete, or stone can be signs of a serious water leak. If left unrepaired, you will have an increase in your water bills and may even require expensive repairs from water damage.

Each week, inspect the interior and exterior construction of your pool. If you notice the following issues, you may have an underlying water leak:

• Cracks and Other Imperfections – Cracked concrete, loose tiles, or broken stones are signs of a foundation issue under your pool. This may be due to unavoidable settling, but it can also be a sign of a severe leak. Consulting the professionals is smart to determine the cause and receive an immediate repair.
• Soft/Moist Soil – If the landscaping around your pool is soft or excessively moist, you may have a water leak in the pool's plumbing.
• Poor Water Quality – A water leak will prevent a healthy balance in your water quality levels. If your tests show abnormal results periodically, you may have an underlying issue. In addition, the presence of algae on your water's surface is a good indicator of improper levels.  

Protection

You most likely want to use your pool daily in the warmer months, so you may not cover your pool during these times. However, protecting your pool with a cover is essential for preventing the buildup of debris and algae in your water.

Pool covers are also beneficial for conserving energy. Since pools lose energy through evaporation, a cover can help the loss of heat. The simple act of covering your pool when it is not in use can help reduce heating costs 50 to 70 percent.  

Thankfully, there are many types of pool covers available. Simple sheets of plastic, a durable vinyl cover, or a solar pool cover are all great options for protecting your pool, preventing buildup of dirt, debris, and bacteria, and conserving energy.

From relaxing and entertaining friends to exercising and having fun, your pool is a worthwhile investment. However, proper care is essential for protecting its function and value. Using these tips, your pool will be a safe and valuable addition to your home. For more information, contact a local swimming pool service.