5 Tips for Protecting Your Pool from Damage & Avoiding Repairs

Depending on the materials used and other factors, a typical underground pool can last 20–30 years or more. However, any repairs you may need to make to fix damage or other issues can be unpleasant and potentially costly to deal with, especially if surface materials are involved. Below, we go over five ways you can avoid pool damage and repairs and get more worry-free use out of your investment.

1. Use a Pool Cover

Even in a place like San Diego, where sunshine normally dominates the day, the elements can take a toll on your pool and contribute to damage. You may also have issues with leaves and other debris getting into your pool if it’s near trees and other landscape features. This type of debris can clog filters and various internal parts. Protect your pool when it’s not being used with a secure, properly fitting cover.

2. Properly Balance Pool Chemicals

A lack of sufficient chlorine and other pool chemicals can contribute to algae growth. A chemically imbalanced pool can also damage your equipment and discolor concrete, fiberglass, and other common pool surfaces. Pool test kits can be purchased to test your pool’s chemical levels to maintain a proper balance. With a standard pool water kit, you simply take a sample of the water and match the colors on the strip with what’s shown on the chart included with the kit. Aim to check your pool’s chlorine and pH levels at least twice per week.

3. Occasionally “Shock” Your Pool’s Water

Speaking of your pool’s chemicals, minimize the risk of damage to your pool by occasionally “shocking” it. This refers to temporarily raising chlorine levels to kill any bacteria that may be in your pool or the parts that carry or distribute water. You don’t want to overdo it, though, since excessive shocking could damage your pool’s liner. It’s best to do this a few times during the warmer months of the year, when you’ll likely be using your pool more often.

4. Have Your Pool’s Plumbing Inspected

Along with storm-related damage, leaks are one of the most potentially serious and costly types of damage that can affect a pool. Regardless of what type of plumbing system your pool uses, have it professionally inspected at least once a year to look for weak connections, rust, and other possible issues. Also, be on the lookout for signs suggesting you may have a pool leak. These include:

• Unexplained water level changes
• Wet or soggy spots in your yard
• Water on the surrounding pool deck even when the pool’s not being used
• Water bills that are higher than usual
• Air or dirt in your pool

5. Develop & Stick to a Maintenance Plan

Don’t forget to regularly skim, scrub, and vacuum your pool on a weekly or biweekly basis. Also, do regular visual inspections to look for anything unusual that may need attention. Being diligent about how you maintain your pool ultimately reduces your odds of being surprised by damage or the need for repairs.

If you take care to maintain your pool on a routine basis, you can prevent damage to its mechanical systems and avoid the need for costly repairs. If you haven’t yet built your pool, reach out to San Diego Pools, the pros with decades of experience. As the leading experts in San Diego pool construction, our team of design and construction professionals 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.