Keeping your swimming pool crystal clear isn’t just about adding chemicals and hoping for the best. It requires the right tools and supplies to maintain cleanliness, balance water chemistry, and prevent algae and bacteria buildup.
Knowing which essential cleaning supplies to invest in can save you time, money, and frustration. You only need the following four must-have pool cleaning supplies, but you also need to know how to use them effectively.
Fortunately, you can most likely find them at many pool stores, however the best deals are available at an online discount pool store. So it’s best to check online for the following pool supplies.
Water Test Strips: The First Step to Pool Maintenance
Water test strips are an absolute necessity for pool maintenance. These strips allow you to quickly and easily check the chemical balance of your pool water, including:
- Free chlorine and total chlorine levels
- pH levels
- Calcium hardness
- Total alkalinity
- Cyanuric acid levels
Testing your pool water at least once a week ensures you can take immediate action before imbalances lead to cloudy water, algae growth, or skin and eye irritation.
Online pool supply stores often have discounts on bulk test strips, especially during the off-season. Look for combo packs that include multiple testing parameters to get the best value. Use water test strips as follows:
- Dip a strip into the pool water and hold it underwater for a few seconds.
- Remove and shake off excess water.
- Compare the color on the strip with the guide provided in the packaging.
- Adjust chemicals accordingly to keep your pool balanced.
Pool Shock: The Ultimate Bacteria Killer
Pool shock is a powerful oxidizer that eliminates contaminants, breaks down chloramines (the cause of strong chlorine odors), and keeps the water clear. You need to shock your pool as it can do the following:
- Removes bacteria and algae buildup
- Breaks down oils, sweat, and sunscreen residues
- Keeps chlorine levels in check
For best results, use a calcium hypochlorite (cal-hypo) shock once a week or after heavy pool use.
Many online retailers frequently offer discounts on pool shock, especially in bulk packages. Warehouse stores and online retailers often provide the best deals. Use pool shock accordingly:
- Test your pool’s chlorine levels before adding shock.
- Pre-dissolve the shock in a bucket of water (if required).
- Pour it evenly around the pool, preferably in the evening, to prevent sunlight from burning off chlorine too quickly.
- Run the pool pump for at least eight hours.
Algae Brush: Your Best Friend Against Green Pool Water
Algae can be a nightmare if it’s not dealt with quickly. A sturdy algae brush helps scrub off algae buildup from pool surfaces. You can use stainless steel brushes for concrete pools, while nylon bristles are best for vinyl, fiberglass, or painted concrete pools.
Pool stores typically discount algae brushes in late summer when demand decreases. Online stores also offer deals, especially for multi-brush packs. When using a brush, remember to focus on problem areas where algae tend to grow and then follow up with a manual vacuum to remove loosened algae from the water.
Manual Pool Vacuum: Essential for Deep Cleaning
A manual pool vacuum is perfect for removing debris and algae from areas an automatic cleaner might miss. A pool vacuum can do the following:
- Provides targeted cleaning in corners and stairs
- Helps eliminate algae after brushing
- Offers full control over vacuuming
You can often find discounted manual vacuums at the end of summer. Look for bundle deals that include vacuum heads, hoses, and telescopic poles. Use the pool vacuum as follows:
- Attach the vacuum head to a telescopic pole and hose.
- Submerge the vacuum head and let the hose fill with water to prevent air pockets.
- Connect the hose to the skimmer suction port.
- Move the vacuum slowly along the pool floor, covering all areas.
Go Online to Find the Best Deals
With the right cleaning supplies, pool maintenance becomes much easier. Many of these essentials are available at discounted prices in pool stores, especially during the off-season. Investing in quality tools upfront saves money in the long run and keeps your pool in top condition.
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