The 7 Do’s and Don’ts of Florida Pool Maintenance

If you live in the Sunshine State, you have an advantage over most of the country; there’s no winterization process necessary for your pool, and you can enjoy it year round without having to get it back into operation every spring.

Always check your manufacturer’s manual for specific guidance about maintaining your pool. That said, here are some basic guidelines you can implement to keep your pool operational and clean all year round.

1. Maintenance

• DO remove debris using a long-handled net to skim your pool’s surface every few days. This increases the efficiency of your pool’s circulatory system.
• DON’T forget to clean strainer baskets once a week. This can help reduce the amount of chlorine your pool needs.

2. Water levels

• DO top off the water level in your pool regularly to reduce strain on the pump if too much air is being sucked in.
• DON’T assume water loss is due to evaporation alone in the summer. Check regularly for any leaks.

3. Filtration

• DO clean out your filter when the difference in flow between the pressure gauge and flow meter reaches around 10 to 15 pounds per square inch.
• DON’T clean your filter too often. A small amount of particles can increase the filter’s capacity to trap more debris.  

4. Circulation

• DO run your pump daily for at least a few hours once or twice a day to keep your circulation system operating at peak efficiency.
• DON’T run your pump around the clock. This can increase stress on your pump and could cause overheating.

5. Draining

• DO drain your pool for annual maintenance if your manufacturer advises you to. If you need to drain your pool, turn the pump off first.
• DON’T let your pool sit empty for long periods of time. Pressure from the surrounding dirt can make it pop out of the ground.

6. Chemicals

• DO maintain appropriate chemical levels. Test your pool water regularly and aim for a pH between 7.2 and 7.6, and chlorine levels of around 1-3 ppm.
• DON’T “shock” your pool in the heat of the day. If you have algae, add chemicals in the evening when it is cooler for best results.

7. Cleaning

• DO use a vacuum weekly to clear debris from your pool, keep the water clear and reduce the amount of chemicals you need to add.
• DON’T use a stiff bristle brush unless you have a plaster lined pool. Use a soft bristled brush for vinyl and fiberglass walls or tile.

Final tip: always check your electrical connections and have your pump serviced one or twice a year to reduce fire hazards. With proper care, your pool can provide enjoyment for generations to come.

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