Pool Maintenance Tips for Homeowners 

There are few better feelings than jumping into a pool on a hot summer day. For many homeowners, having an in-ground pool in their backyard is more than just a luxury—it’s a dream come true. 

Of course, that dream comes with some responsibility. Taking care of your pool is essential for protecting your investment, keeping swimmers safe, and maintaining your home’s value. 

Whether you’re a first-time pool owner or have been doing this for years, this guide will walk you through the fundamentals. You’ll learn the basics of pool maintenance, how to keep your water clean and clear, when it might be time to upgrade your pool cleaner, and how pool care fits into your overall home maintenance routine. 

Why Pool Maintenance Matters 

Owning a pool is more than just weekend cannonballs and relaxing floats. Regular pool maintenance keeps your water clean and safe, helps your equipment run smoothly, and prevents costly repairs. It also enables you to protect the overall value of your home. 

A sparkling pool can be a major asset for many homeowners. Experts estimate that a 14×28-foot concrete in-ground pool adds between 5% and 8% to the real estate value of your home, depending on its location, condition, and other market factors. That extra value is great if you’re considering refinancing or selling, but only if your pool is well-maintained. 

Pool Cleaning Basics Every Homeowner Should Know 

The secret to a clean pool isn’t just adding chemicals. A consistent cleaning routine makes a big difference. 

Here are a few basics: 

1. Skim the surface daily: Use a skimmer net to remove leaves, bugs, and debris and keep the water clean. 

2. Vacuum the floor weekly: Whether you use a manual vacuum or an automatic pool cleaner, getting the dirt off the bottom keeps water quality high. 

3. Brush the walls and tiles: This prevents algae buildup and helps your filtration system work more efficiently. You can easily clean your pool tiles with baking soda, a scrubbing pad, and a little bit of elbow grease. 

4. Empty the skimmer baskets: These catch debris before it gets into your filter, so keeping them clear helps your system run better. Emptying your skimmer baskets regularly will keep your pool water flowing to the filter. 

Doing these tasks regularly saves you time and trouble later. 

Manual vs. Automatic: Choosing the Right Pool Cleaner 

The type of pool cleaner you use greatly impacts the time and effort you will need to spend maintaining your pool. 

Manual cleaning tools include leaf skimmers, brushes, and handheld vacuums. While they are usually more cost-effective and give you more control, they do still require a person to do the work. You may consider going with manual cleaning tools if you own a smaller pool. 

Automatic pool cleaners can be a game changer if you don’t have much spare time to invest in cleaning your pool or if you own a larger home. There are three common types of automatic cleaners: 

• Suction-side cleaners that attach to your pool’s existing filtration system. 

• Pressure-side cleaners that use water pressure to move around and collect debris. 

• Robotic pool cleaners that work independently and often come with high-tech features. 

The right pool cleaner for you depends on your pool’s size and how much time you are willing to dedicate to cleaning it. 

Pool Maintenance Tips Before You Go on Vacation 

If you plan to take a trip away from home while your pool is in use, your pool still needs some attention while you’re away. Without proper planning, you could return to cloudy water, algae growth, or even equipment issues.  

Here are a few simple steps to keep your pool in good condition while you’re gone: 

• Clean and balance the water before you leave: Give your pool a full cleaning. Skim the surface, brush the walls, and vacuum the bottom. Then, test your water and make sure the chlorine, pH, and alkalinity levels are properly balanced to help prevent problems while you’re away. 

• Cover your pool: If the pool won’t be used during your trip, a well-fitted cover helps keep out leaves, insects, and debris. It also slows down evaporation and helps maintain chemical levels. 

• Set your pump on a timer: Running your pump and filter automatically for 6 to 8 hours daily keeps the water circulating and helps prevent algae and bacteria buildup. 

• Shock the water: Adding a chlorine shock before you leave gives your pool a boost in sanitation. This extra protection is beneficial for trips longer than a few days. 

• Arrange for a pool check-in: If you’ll be away for over a week, ask a friend or hire a pool professional to stop by. They can empty skimmer baskets, check the water chemistry, and ensure your equipment is working correctly. 

Taking care of these steps before vacation gives you peace of mind and helps ensure your pool is clean and ready for use when you return. 

Seasonal Pool Maintenance Tips 

Even though you might only use your pool during the summer, your pool needs different care throughout the year.  

Here’s a quick look at what to focus on each season: 

1. Spring and Summer: Start the season by checking all equipment and balancing chemicals. During the hot months, monitor chlorine levels and skim regularly as usage increases. 

2. Fall: Watch for falling leaves and clean them out promptly. It’s also a good time to inspect and clean your filter. 

3. Winter: If you live in a colder climate, winterizing your pool correctly is key. Lower the water level, add winter chemicals, and cover your pool securely to avoid freeze damage. 

Keeping up with seasonal maintenance extends the life of your pool and avoids off-season surprises. 

Pro Tips for Long-Term Pool Care 

In addition to regular cleaning, here are some expert tips for long-term success: 

• Test your water weekly and balance pH, chlorine, and alkalinity levels. 

• Run your pump daily to ensure proper circulation. 

• Monitor wear and tear for filters, seals, and pool liners. 

• Create a simple weekly checklist to stay on top of tasks. 

• Hire a professional when something seems off or if you want seasonal service. 

A little time each week can prevent big problems later on. 

How Pool Maintenance Ties Into Homeownership Costs 

Pool upkeep is an essential part of overall home maintenance. Budgeting for regular cleaning, equipment upgrades, and occasional repairs helps you avoid financial surprises. 

If you’re considering refinancing your mortgage or tapping into home equity, your pool might even come into play. A well-maintained pool can boost your home’s value, while a neglected one can become a costly liability. Lenders often look at the condition of major home features when assessing value, so don’t overlook your pool when thinking about the bigger picture. 

Having a pool at your house can be a tremendous asset, but only if it’s cared for properly. With a regular cleaning schedule, the right tools, and seasonal maintenance, you can keep your pool in top shape and enjoy it for years to come. 

Are you looking to make home improvements or explore financing options to upgrade your pool? Get started with one of our many expert loan officers today to learn how we can help you make the most of your investment and support all your home maintenance goals.