TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) -- Nearly nine million Americans have backyard swimming pools. But the summer fun can turn troublesome if the water becomes goes green.
In this Angie's List report, how to save time, trouble and expense maintaining your pool so the cannon balls keep coming all summer long.
Maintaining your chemical levels is the key to making sure your pool is ready when you are.
"Customers don't realize how important the PH is, your alkalinity, and your chlorine levels in your swimming pool for your sanitizers because chlorine will not work properly unless the PH is right between a 7-2 and 7-6," said pool cleaner Elden Foltz.
Homeowner John Willey maintains his own pool, but says it can be complicated - and costly - if you don't take the time to educate yourself.
"I would certainly recommend taking a class, making sure that you understand the functionality of not only the equipment, but more importantly the chemical and the chemical balance of the pool and how it should be maintained on a regular basis," said Willey.
Regular chores include skimming daily, vacuuming weekly and scrubbing down the walls as often as needed.
"It's very important to brush your swimming pool. It helps prevent any problems, especially algae that's growing on the walls. You can get it before it actually goes on there," said Foltz.
Covering your pool is also a great idea -- especially if you have small children or pets.
"Many people think about their pool cover as a safety issue, but it can actually help you maintain your pool better. By keeping your pool covered, it can keep your pool temperature from dropping at night. Additionally, it can reduce the evaporation from the pool, which can extend the life of the chemicals," said Angie Hicks, founder of Angie's List.
There are different types of pool covers, so research the options before you buy.
If you hire a pool service for regular maintenance, get a detailed list of services performed and chemicals added on each visit so you know exactly how it's being maintained.
Remember you can catch the latest Angie's List report every Tuesday morning on WTXL Sunrise.
