Monsoon Pool Maintenance
Summer is in full swing here in the Valley, which means it’s the busiest time for pool maintenance and pool issues. Summer storms can be a particular nuisance, so with that in mind, here are some of the pitfalls that a pool owner should be aware of and respond to as needed:
Debris
Leaves, branches, and even outdoor furniture can find its way into a pool after a storm, so these will have to be fished out as soon as possible. Don’t leave it up to the system, though: use a net regularly. Organic material such as leaves and grass quickly decompose and provide nourishment for bacteria and algae.
These, along with the heat, create the dreaded green pool, look in a short amount of time, which brings us to our next category.
Balanced pH
Besides the physical measures needed to keep your pool clean, chemicals are the next way pool owners can keep their pool in good shape. Testing and balancing should occur every other day during the monsoon season. After all, rain brings a ton of particulates, along with the flying dust from haboob winds. A pH and chlorine test will give you instant information on the condition of your pool and what it needs. It’s easy and will help a pool owner keep on top of monsoon damage.
A dirty pool plays host to several pathogens. e.Coli, athlete’s foot fungus, pseudomonas, Legionnaires Disease, and a host of other nasty diseases can live in an unbalanced pool.
Run the pool
During storms, a pool motor should be turned off. Gas lines should be off as well if you have them. Following a storm, the pump should be turned back on as soon as the more significant material has been fished from the pool with the net. Be sure to check the skimmer for stuff before turning on the pump.
Because the Sonoran Desert toad is driven out to mate during monsoons season, a pool owner will sometimes find one, living or dead, in the pool or skimmer. It should be noted that their skin secretes a toxin which is powerful enough to kill a family dog, so these should be handled carefully and removed from anywhere that pets might be able to find them.
Brush and vacuum
Brushing the dirt and vacuuming the pool should be the final step. If you have an automatic vacuum, this is the time to run it: brush any areas the vacuum won’t readily reach before turning the unit on.
If pool maintenance is beyond the scope of your time, we have several maintenance plans which will take varying degrees of the burden off your back. Now is a great time to start pool service, too, so you won’t miss any swimming days or waste time servicing your pool when you could be swimming in it. Give us a call to find out more. We’d love to hear from you!
If you need pool maintenance for your Phoenix, Arizona pool or spa, call us here at Serenity Pools. Our services include new installation set-up, professional maintenance of pools and spas, water features, and fountains. Call today! 480-370-0579.
