Nothing quite beats the summer heat and humidity like a refreshing swim. Even better and more convenient when that swim takes place in the comfort of your own backyard. But if you’re a pool owner, you know all too well that proper maintenance is the key to keeping your backyard oasis enjoyable and safe all season long.

So, before you take your next dip, make sure you’re following these pool care tips.

• After months of non-use, take the time to thoroughly inspect the pool area for damage, clear away leaves, branches, and debris with a pool net, and run the filter to get things moving again.

• Closely follow your pool kit’s instructions when treating the water. Achieving just the right balance of pH, calcium, and alkalinity will keep the water crystal clear, keep the filter clog free, and prevent skin and eye irritation.
• Chlorine is an essential ingredient in the fight against bacteria. Take the time to research your options. Would you prefer liquid or chlorine tabs? Do you want an all-in-one solution or a separate algaecide?
• Pool professionals recommend shocking a pool at least twice a month – more frequently if your pool is used often. Apply three to five times the normal amount of chlorine to quickly raise chlorine levels and kill algae, bacteria, and other harmful pathogens.
• Wind and rain can cause plant life to make itself at home in your pool where it can bloom and take over. Apply a weekly or biweekly algaecide treatment to keep the water sparkling clean and safe.
• Invest in a pool cover to prevent debris and little critters from ending up in your water. When rinsing the pool deck, direct the hose away from the pool so that whatever you’re washing away doesn’t end up in the water.

Then there’s the pool safety – there’s nothing more important for making the most of your outdoor time and investment. Our advice? Add one or more backyard video cameras to your home security system so you can keep an eye on things. While we don’t recommend leaving kids alone in a pool even for a minute, things have a way of happening anyway, however briefly. Video cameras can help relieve at least some of that worry.

For more information and a free in-home security analysis, contact Now Security Systems today.