There are a plethora of ways which you, as a fibreglass pool owner, will be able to keep your pool squeaky clean which you may or may not have heard of. While we do continue to mention more technical aspects within the articles that follow. This article will outline basic cleaning techniques.
One of the most important aspects of a clean pool is without a doubt the water level. Water levels need to be 3 inches above the bottom of the skimmer opening so as to allow for water to flow, skimming and cleaning surface debris. Should water levels become too low (causing the pump to run dry) while the pump is running you may cause exponential damage to your pool pump.
Inspect the filters in your system on a regular basis (every 2 weeks), a pressure indication of 4 pounds will possibly indicate a dirty filter cartridge. Remember to clean your system with the pump turned off, and once the filter is removed, clean it with a running hose and not a brush. Reinstall the filter with the pump turned off and then proceed to switch it back on once it has been completely assembled.
Cleaning the filter periodically is important as there are a few different types of build ups on the future which include calcium, oils from suntan lotion and algae. Use Muriatic Acid for calcium build up (water to muriatic 4:1 – soak 2-4 hours), oils and lotions require tri-sodium phosphate solution (try one cup TSP to 5 gallons of water), and if you have algae build up use a 1:1 chlorine to water solution. Should the filter become stained proceed with steps 2, 3, and 1 in that order.
Your next priority as a pool owner is your timer which should be running 6-8 hours during the winter months and 8-10 hours during the summer months. The pump should also be run during the day as this is when the sun is brightest, the most algae is produced and the time at which the pump will be most effective.
The running of your pump will be complemented by adequate vacuuming of your pool. This entails turning the pump onto its vacuuming mode through which it will cycle the water you are sucking up using the vacuuming pole and sweep head by passing the water through the filter and returning it to the pool. Be sure to perform a filter clean after you have completed this process, however, be aware that pools which exhibit too much dirt may require filter changes during the vacuuming procedure, so as to optimise cleaning.
Cleaning the actual fibreglass of the pool is actually the easiest and best part of any pool clean. For dust and dirt on the pool, feel free to use a damp sponge or rag (we recommend Scotchbrite 3M pads), and should the dirt be slightly tougher, use a common household cleaner such as Soft Scrub. You may use a mild abrasive cleaner for those tougher stains, as well as 600 grit wet/dry sandpaper BUT DO NOT USE BRILLO PADS OR ACETONE.