Things that Can Damage Your Pool

It’s sometimes seemingly little things or absent-minded mistakes that contribute to unexpected damage to a swimming pool. Even certain habits related to how you care for your pool can make it less inviting, unsafe, or practically unusable. Here’s a closer look at some of the things that can ruin your underground pool and what you can do to avoid these issues.

Chlorine Issues

Along with irritating skin and eyes, too much chlorine can damage your pool’s cover. High chlorine levels can also cause pH levels to get too high, which could result in unsightly stains. Chlorine can also cause the pump, filter, and other parts to become corroded if you place chlorine tablets directly into your skimmer.

• How to avoid this issue: Regularly check chemical levels, and shock your pool to maintain a proper balance. Put chlorine tablets directly in the pool, not by the skimmer.

Starting the Pump with a “Dead Head”

“Dead head” refers to starting your pool pump when the water has nowhere to go, which can happen if valves are closed or a line is clogged. Operating a pump this way can be dangerous for you and your pool’s equipment.

• How to avoid this issue: Make sure all valves are open before you use your pump. If you suspect a line is clogged, have the pump serviced.

Low Calcium Hardness

Calcium levels that are too low in a swimming pool can leave you with water that craves calcium enough to pull it from your pool’s plaster and tile grout. Over time, the structure of your pool can be affected enough to result in cracking and other damage.

• How to avoid this issue: Keep the calcium hardness level in your pool at a minimum level of 150 ppm.

Low Water Levels

Pool water levels can become too low from vacuuming, evaporation (if your pool is uncovered and unused for long periods), or draining your pool and not filling it all the way back up. If the water gets below the skimmer line, the pump and pipes can become damaged from taking in only air.

• How to avoid this issue: Regularly check your pool’s water level, and use a cover for times when you won’t be using your pool for a while.

Not Running Your Pump Long Enough

Some pool owners cut down on their pump’s running time to reduce electricity expenses. While this may seem like a good idea, not running your pump long enough can leave you spending more money on pool chemicals to deal with algae problems.

• How to avoid this issue: Use a pump that’s the proper size for your pool, and run it for at least 7–8 hours when you regularly use your pool.

Forgetting to Clean Pool Walls

Skipping your pool’s walls during routine cleanings can cause algae buildup and contribute to other types of accumulations that can make your pool less appealing. Pool wall debris can also affect water quality.

• How to avoid this issue: Use a soft, non-scratching pool brush to regularly clean your pool’s walls and other spots that are often overlooked, such as behind ladders and along the waterline.

If you take care to avoid these problems that can ruin your pool, you can prevent damage to its mechanical systems, keep it clean, and ensure your family will be able to enjoy it for many years to come. If you haven’t yet built your pool, reach out to San Diego Pools, the pros with decades of experience. We are one of the premier pool companies in San Diego, and our team of pool design and construction experts is dedicated to building exactly the pool you want and providing you with the highest-quality service in the industry. To get started on building the pool of your dreams, call us today at 888-707-7786.