Matt Gohlke

Although summer officially begins Saturday, for most of us it started when the kids got out of school.

There is nothing in adulthood that can compare with the feeling of freedom that kids have when walking (or running) out of school on the last day.

There are so many things to look forward to as summer begins: spending time with family and friends, summer camps, visits to Six Flags, Rangers baseball, not having to wake up early, the list goes on and on.

Another thing that many kids and adults look forward to in the summer is spending time in a swimming pool.

One of the keys of having the time to enjoy a swimming pool is having a preventative maintenance plan in place that allows you to swim in clean, clear, safe water.

There are five keys to pool care that, if followed, can make you successful in the quest for a beautiful pool this summer.

Circulation

Make sure that your pump is circulating at least 8 hours per day during the swim season.

The longer the pool water is in motion, the harder it is for bacteria and algae to take hold and grow.

If you have a saltwater chlorination system, it might possibly take more than 8 hours of pump operation to maintain your pool at the proper chlorine levels.

Filtration

The skimmer baskets, pump basket and the filter need to be kept clean and free of debris.

In addition, make sure that your filter is operating properly and clean the filter when needed.

If you do not know when your filter needs to be cleaned, a local pool professional would be glad to discuss filter maintenance with you.

Cleaning

Cleaning is critical and must be done.

It is of particular importance to brush the walls and floor of the pool in order to prevent algae and bacteria from growing.

Most pools have automatic pool cleaners, but remember that they are there to help you keep the pool clean and most times are not capable of cleaning areas such as steps, benches or other problem areas.

Testing

It would probably be a good idea to test the water at least once each week.

In addition, have your local pool supply store perform a complete water analysis for you at least every 3 months. Doing so can truly take the look of your pool water to a higher level.

Proper water balance

Once the tests have been performed, add the chemicals that are needed. Be sure you know the capacity in gallons for your pool.

If you are unsure about the capacity in gallons for your pool, a pool professional will be glad to help you figure it.

Chemically treating the improper number of gallons can cause problems with your pool water.

It is also a good idea to use an algaecide to help prevent the growth of algae.

Matt Gohlke, certified building professional, is the owner of Gohlke Pools and a member of the National Spa & Pool Institute, Aquatech (a society of pool building professionals), Better Business Bureau and an authorized dealer of Bioguard and Baquacil. His firm has received many national awards, certifications and recognitions in the swimming pool industry. Mr. Gohlke may be reached 940-387-7521.