Maintaining a sparkling and safe swimming pool is a priority for any homeowner. Many homeowners report after years that their pool water just doesn’t “sparkle like it used to”. “My water looks dull”. I struggle with algae and use more chemicals than I used to”. While regular cleaning and chemical balancing are essential, there’s one often overlooked aspect: draining the pool. Though it may seem like a daunting task, draining your pool every five years offers a myriad of benefits that extend beyond mere cleanliness. Let’s dive into why this practice is crucial for pool owners.
- Preventing Mineral Buildup:
Over time, minerals like calcium and magnesium can accumulate in your pool water, leading to unsightly scale deposits on pool surfaces. Draining the pool allows you to remove these minerals completely, preventing buildup and preserving the aesthetic appeal of your pool.
- Maintaining Water Quality:
Despite diligent chemical treatment, water quality can gradually decline due to the accumulation of contaminants and dissolved solids. By draining the pool every five years, you reset the water quality, ensuring a fresh and invigorating swimming experience for you and your family.
- Preventing Algae Growth:
Algae thrive in stagnant water, especially in areas with warm temperatures and high humidity. Draining and refilling your pool periodically disrupts the algae’s life cycle, making it harder for them to establish a foothold. This proactive measure reduces the need for excessive chemical treatments and manual scrubbing.
- Extending Equipment Lifespan:
Prolonged exposure to mineral deposits and debris can take a toll on your pool equipment, including filters, pumps, and heaters. By draining the pool every five years, you reduce the strain on these components, potentially extending their lifespan and saving you money on repairs and replacements.
- Enhancing Safety:
A drained pool provides an opportunity to inspect and repair any underlying issues, such as cracks or leaks, that may compromise its structural integrity. Addressing these issues promptly not only ensures the safety of pool users but also prevents costly damages in the long run.
- Promoting Environmental Responsibility:
Conserving water is a crucial aspect of responsible pool ownership. While draining your pool may seem wasteful, it’s a necessary step to maintain water quality and prevent the excessive use of chemicals. Additionally, you can repurpose the drained water for landscaping or other household needs, minimizing waste.
- Contaminants in your water:
Contaminants such as TDS (total dissolved solids) nitrates, and phosphates build up in your water which makes pool maintenance more costly and difficult. While some things like phosphates are treatable, others such as nitrates and TDS can only be remedied by performing a water change.
- What is the makeup of my local water?:
The local water supply in Corona, CA, and neighboring areas such as Eastvale, Norco, and Riverside, contains unexpectedly low mineral levels, contrary to popular belief. However, within a year, the natural process of evaporation causes these levels to increase. Each local municipality has its own approval process for properly discharging pool water, with some departments even offering variances for those following the correct and approved methods.
Conclusion:
Incorporating pool draining into your maintenance routine every five years is a proactive approach to ensure the longevity, safety, and enjoyment of your swimming pool. By investing time and effort into this essential task, you’ll reap the rewards of a pristine pool environment for years to come. So, take the plunge and give your pool the refreshing reset it deserves!