How Frequently Should I Replace the Water in My Pool?

How Frequently Should I Replace the Water in My Pool?

Water isn’t something you just put into your pool one time after it’s set up and ready for use. Even with proper filtration and chemical balancing, you’ll still need to replace the water every now and then. Below we offer some guidance on how often your pool’s water should be replaced to maintain optimal comfort and safety.

Follow the General Recommendation of 5–7 Years

Because pool water is filtered, it doesn’t need to be replaced every single year. This is why the general recommendation among pool experts cited by various sources is to replace pool water every 5 to 7 years or so. How often you’ll need to do this will also depend on several more specific factors, some of which include:

• How diligent you are with pool maintenance
• What’s getting into your pool’s water
• How well your pool’s filtration system is working
• Weather conditions (e.g., direct exposure to sunlight, heat, rain, etc.)
• Whether or not you use a pool cover

You also don’t have to drain your water just because your pool needs a regular cleaning. For example, if you have a standard gunite pool in San Diego, there are ways to safely and effectively do routine pool cleanings without the need to fully drain the water.

Consider Frequency of Use

A pool used frequently is going to be subjected to more lotions, oils, and other substances people often bring into a pool. If this applies to your pool, you may want to drain and replace the water closer to the five-year mark. On the reverse side, a pool that’s rarely used can develop stagnant water that will still need to be replaced for health and safety reasons.

Understand the Importance of Pool Water Replacement

Eventually, your pool’s water will naturally reach a point where it can no longer be sufficiently treated to remain safely usable. As mentioned above, this point is usually within the 5–7 year range. Pool water that becomes untreatable can contribute to an assortment of issues that could affect your pool, including ones involving:

• Damage to the tile and other structures
• Water discoloration or cloudiness
• Damage to grout and other materials that provide some type of protection

Learn How Pool Water Should Be Replaced

It’s usually best to drain your pool and replace the water when it’s fairly mild outside, since heat and high humidity could damage your pool’s exposed surfaces or filtration system. Also, don’t drain your pool after a big rainfall or storm, especially if it was left uncovered. It’s best to wait until the water has settled back to its normal level before completing the draining process.

A sump pump, bucket, and hose with an attached spray nozzle are the basic tools you’ll need to drain your pool’s water. Make sure to open the hydrostatic valve first. Doing so will keep the pressure from the release of the water from dislodging or shifting your pool. When your pool is drained, it’s also a good time to have it inspected or repaired. If you’re unfamiliar with the pool-draining process, err on the side of caution and have it professionally done.

Whether they need expert advice on maintaining their pools or they’re looking for a premier in-ground pool contractor, San Diego residents should reach out to the team at San Diego Pools. We’ve been designing and building pools for almost half a century, and we pride ourselves on our innovation and outstanding craftsmanship. To get started on your new pool, give us a call today at 888-707-7786.

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