Maintaining your pool can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be! With a few simple steps, you can keep your pool clean and healthy all season long. All you have to do is follow the 3 C’s of Pool Care -
1. Circulation
2. Cleaning
3. Chemistry
In this blog, we will take a look at the first C of Pool Care Treatment - Circulation. This pool care cheat sheet on pool water circulation will tell you how to maintain your pool pump, optimize skimming and implement the proper filtration processes.
Understand the Pool Circulation System:
The pool circulation system plays a major role in maintaining the cleanliness and health of your pool. It consists of the pump, filter and skimmer. The pump circulates water from the main drain to the filter, and from there, it goes to the return port, bringing clean water back into circulation through out-flow jets. Skimming also helps remove debris from the surface of the pool by carrying dirt particles up and into the skimmer basket before they reach the filter. For this, you can also use the cloudy pool clarifier - Sparkle Maxx.
For a comprehensive guide to pool clarifier and flocculant, click here to read more.
Proper water circulation is one of the most important aspects of pool maintenance. It not only keeps the water clear and clean, but it also helps distribute chemicals evenly throughout the pool. Here are some tips for maintaining proper water circulation in your pool:
1. Skimmer Basket Care:
Clean your pool's skimmer basket regularly. It will prevent debris from clogging the skimmer and blocking water flow. Automatic skimmers can help reduce the amount of debris entering your pool, preventing the need for more frequent manual cleaning. Plus, they provide additional water circulation in the pool to help reduce the buildup of algae and other contaminants. Install an automatic skimmer (or two) near the surface of your pool to help keep contaminants from entering and starting to form a biofilm.
Also, keep the water level at the midpoint of the skimmer opening. If the water level is too low, the skimmer won't be able to function properly and remove debris from the water's surface. If the water level is too high, the skimmer won't be able to function at all.
2. Adjust The Return Jets:
Return jets are water outlets located at the perimeter of a swimming pool. They are responsible for returning clean and filtered water to be recycled in the swimming pool through a circulation system. The return jets help circulate water around the pool, clearing out dirt and debris while keeping the temperature of the pool optimized. They also aid in ensuring proper chemical levels throughout the swimming pool.
Adjusting the return jets of your pool is essential for ensuring optimal skimming efficiency. Position them so that they are aimed downwards and pointing in the same direction. Doing this will push all debris to the surface of your pool skimmer, as well as promote the even distribution of all cleaning products used in your water.
3. Check Pump Impeller Regularly:
Check that your pump is the correct size for your pool. If your pump is too small, it won't be able to circulate the water effectively. If it's too large, it will waste energy and may even damage your pool equipment. Have your pump impeller and motor checked regularly to make sure it is working as needed. The impeller can degrade over time, resulting in reduced water flow and inadequate circulation which will cause bacteria, algae and other debris to remain in the pool. Also, inspect the pump head, lid and o-ring for any debris or wear and tear. Make sure all screws are tight & all hose connections are properly attached before turning on the pump.
Run the pump for at least 8-12 hours a day, depending on the size of your pool. The longer you run the pump, the better the circulation will be. During the hot summer months, you may need to run the pump for even longer. For the cool & cold climate, the pump should be running for 4-6 hours a day.
4. Monitor The Pool Filters:
The best way to monitor your swimming pool filter pressure is to check the pressure gauge on the filter regularly. The pool filter pressure is usually 10-20 PSI*. While for backwashing or cleaning, it should be above 10 PSI*. It will enable you to determine when it’s time to backwash or clean the filter and ensure that there are no clogs in the system. Additionally, it’s important to check for signs of visible debris or wear on the filter and make sure it is properly maintained.
Most importantly, backwash your filter regularly. A dirty filter can reduce water circulation and make it harder to keep the pool clean.
By following these tips, you can ensure proper water circulation in your pool, which will help keep it clean and clear all season long.
For pool cleaning and balancing the water chemistry, head to the other blogs of this series here.
Need help or further assistance?
Contact our Pool Maxx Pool Care Assistant.