Owning a pool is a wonderful luxury. It can provide a refreshing escape, be the backdrop for countless memories, and serve as a hub for endless family fun. Nothing should get in the way of these. Keeping the water clean and clear is just the beginning to maintaining a pool, however. If you do not have a service company making regular and routine inspection of your pool’s system, it is wise to build these simple checks into your regular pool care routine.
First, these regular inspections can help identify potential hazards before they lead to accidents or injuries. Things like broken or loose drain covers, broken gate latches, or faulty electric covers pose serious risk to people in and around the pool.
Perhaps you’ve heard the saying, “A stitch in time saves nine.” We have a similar saying in the pool industry: “A minor crack patched soon can save you hundreds if not thousands of gallons of water and just as much money.” Ok, ok, it’s not really a saying, but it’s true! Catching minor breaks, cracks, or damage in your pool, spa, and equipment can absolutely save costly repairs later. It will also extend the life of your equipment by ensuring everything is in proper working order.
Cracks and breaks are just one of the many things to look out for. If you have a liner pool, look out for signs of looseness or worn areas as these make the liner easier to puncture or tear. Cracks in a concrete pool aren’t the only source for water loss; keep an eye on your yard or pool area for any signs of a leak from the buried pipes that travel the water from the pool through the filtration system.
Take note if your pumps, filters, or other equipment show signs of reduced water flow, loud or strange noises, and leaks. Heaters should be checked regularly for mouse nests, as these can inhibit the efficacy of the heater, and potentially lead to fires. Frayed wires, blinking lights, or chemical or water related damage can also impact the performance and life of your equipment.
By staying vigilant and addressing issues early, you can prevent costly repairs, extend the lifespan of your equipment, and ensure the safety of everyone who uses your pool. These routine inspections of your pool and system aren’t a total guarantee that nothing will ever break, but they will send you well on your way to having a safe, efficient (and therefore more enjoyable) swim season.
