Owning a swimming pool is a dream for many homeowners. There’s nothing better than stepping outside on a hot day, dipping into cool water, and having a backyard oasis. But if you’re considering a new pool, you might be wondering—are swimming pools easy to maintain?
The short answer is yes, provided you understand what’s required and stay consistent.
The Basics of Pool Maintenance
Most of the upkeep comes down to three simple areas:
- Water Balance – Keeping your water chemistry balanced is key. At the most basic level, this means making sure the pH, chlorine, and alkalinity stay within the proper ranges. A well-balanced pool not only has water that looks crystal clear, but also prevents algae, scaling, and equipment damage.
- No, you don’t need a chemistry degree to balance your pool water. Test kits are made that are easy to use. There are even effective test strips that are easier to use than the test kits for day-to-day water testing.
- Water testing kits require the user to take a water sample and add specific chemical reagents. The drops react with the water and give a reading. Using that information, you determine how much chemical to add.
- Test strips are easier to use because you simply dip them into the pool water, and they will show readings for about five different water measurements. Then, you use that information to add the needed pool chemicals.
- Most pool owners spend time getting the pool chemistry dialed in at the beginning of the season and then only check the chlorine regularly. It is still recommended to adjust all chemistry as needed based on the water testing you do regularly. It becomes very easy and requires very little time after the pool water is initially balanced.
- Cleaning – Skimming leaves, brushing down the walls, and vacuuming the floor are all routine tasks. Many pool owners use automatic or robotic cleaners to remove debris from the pool floor. Swimming pools with an automatic pool cover installed are easier to keep clean, as they keep much of the yard debris out of the water.
- Filtration and Circulation – Your pool’s pump and filter are the heart of the system. We set your pool filtration based on local rules of thumb, but each pool owner often adjusts the filtration time to suit their pool’s usage. When pool water is properly filtered, it helps the pool water remain beautiful, combined with proper water balance.
Is There a Type of Pool That is Easier to Maintain?
Fiberglass and in-ground vinyl pools are easier to maintain than a plaster pool, but all types of pools are relatively easy to maintain. The reason people often say that fiberglass pools and vinyl pools are easier to maintain is that they are non-porous, making it easier to completely remove algae if a pool ever gets unbalanced.
That being said, all pools require the same basic kinds of pool chemicals to maintain the correct balance. No matter the kind of pool you choose, you can maintain it on your own.
Professional Pool Maintenance is an Option
While many homeowners take care of their pools themselves, professional maintenance services are always an option. At Enhanced Pools, we work with clients who prefer professional pool maintenance. That way, you can spend more time enjoying your pool and less time worrying about it.
Some homeowners have a professional complete the pool “start-up” at the beginning of the swimming season and then maintain the pool themselves afterward. Others have a professional do all pool care, while some maintain the pool entirely on their own.
So, Is It Easy?
Like anything, a pool requires some attention. But with the right setup, the right equipment, and a consistent routine, pool care isn’t difficult. And when you weigh that little bit of effort against the joy of having your private retreat, most homeowners agree it’s more than worth it.