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There are all sorts of myths circulating out there about pool maintenance. Let’s set the record straight about five of the most common myths we’ve heard about pool maintenance:
MYTH: Pools Cost Too Much to Maintain
It is true that pools used to be much more costly to maintain. When you factor in equipment repairs and upgrades, water/heat/hydro usage, and expenses for chemicals and cleaning materials, it adds up. But with energy efficient pool pumps and filters these days, pools use far less power and water than they used to. For example, a cartridge filter compared to a traditional sand filter saves water, heat, and chemicals. A variable speed pump instead of a traditional single speed pump can cut your pool’s energy usage by as much as 90%.
MYTH: Saltwater Pools Are Maintenance-Free
Yes, saltwater systems convert salt into a naturally occurring form of chlorine. However, you still need to continue with a regular treatment regimen to balance the pH, total alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels of the pool. You must still shock your pool, and of course keep up with regular skimming and vacuuming as required. If you do want a maintenance-free solution, you can hire a Purewater pool professional to take care of it all.
MYTH: The More Frequent Backwashing, the Better
Backwashing is a method of using your pool water to rinse dirt and debris from your sand filter. If you want to stay on top of your maintenance, you might presume that frequent backwashing helps keep things clean. On the contrary, excessive backwashing can stir up sand and push it back into the pool, creating a bigger problem. Plus, it’s a waste of water. Only backwash when the gauge indicates pressure of 8-10 psi.
MYTH: You Can Clean Your Pool with Household Products
If you’re feeling thrifty, you might be tempted to use common household products like baking soda, bleach, or borax to treat or shock your pool. Don’t! If you don’t know what you’re doing and just try to guess dosages and combinations, you could cause a lot of damage to your pool system. Only use professional pool chemicals in your pool, for their intended use and according to the specific instructions. This is not an area to cut corners.
Have you heard other myths about pool maintenance and you aren’t sure if they are true or not? Give us a call, send us an email or visit us at the Purewater store. We’re here to set the record straight.
