Vinyl pools are a great addition to your home, but like anything else, they need continuous maintenance. They are inexpensive to install, but if they aren’t properly cared for, they won’t last very long. Luckily, there are some simple steps and routines you can take to prolong your vinyl pool’s life. Once you get into a habit, the maintenance will be minimal to keep the pool in top shape.

Keep Your Pool Clean

No one wants to take a swim and be surrounded by dead bugs and soggy leaves. Instead of having to pick each one out individually, there are easy ways of preventing it from happening in the first place, as well as tools for cleaning that will save you time. Invest in a vinyl pool liner vacuum and use it regularly on the bottom of the pool. This will keep debris, mold, and algae from building up.

You should also use a pool cover. Make it fits your pool securely, so no foreign particles or bugs can get in from the top, or the sides of the pool. The pool cover performs many functions. First, it keeps water from evaporating, saving you money on water costs. Second, tarps or pool covers can help keep the water at the perfect temperature. Third, you will spend less time cleaning the water, and it will prevent staining on the liner from dirt or leaves.

Vinyl liner is sensitive to rips and tears. Invest in a soft nylon pool brush that is specifically made for vinyl pools, and gently scrub the pool’s sides. Keep the deck and surrounding areas clean too. Leaf skimmers will get rid of those mushy leaves and keep your pool’s surface clear. There are professional cleaning solutions that you can buy when using these tools as well. It is highly recommended to get your pool cleaned by professionals at least once a year, to lengthen your pool’s lifespan. 

Correct Chemicals Levels

Having the proper pH levels allows chlorine to kill threats, such as algae and bacteria. Your pool needs proper water balance in order to maximize its life and appearance. If the pool is frequently used, the water should be tested twice daily with a DPD kit, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The pH level should be between 7.4-7.8. This will effectively kill germs, prevent the liner from wrinkling, and won’t irritate swimmers’ skin. Free chlorine should be between 1.5 and 2.5 ppm to stop algae and bacteria from growing; however, if it is higher than this, the liner will get wrinkled. When mixing in chemicals, do one at a time and wait until it dissolves before adding the second one.

Your Pool Should Always Have Water

Water keeps the vinyl liner from wrinkling, rising, shrinking, or bubbling. It’s never a good idea to drain the water because your pool might lose its shape. Water provides pressure that keeps your pool intact. There is no need to get rid of the water if you perform regular maintenance. If you need to drain some of the water for whatever reason, contact DMG Pools to get professional advice before you take action.

DMG Pools is Here to Help

Our team has been in the vinyl pool industry for 35 years. We have encountered all sorts of maintenance situations and have the expertise to guide you towards the right practices. DMG Pools will provide you with all the information to maximize your pool’s life. Apart from suggesting the best cleaning supplies and tips, you can also schedule yearly professional cleaning with DMG Pools as soon as you get the pool installed. Give us a call today, to learn about our services and ways to keep your pool durable and strong.