7 Tips Every New Pool Owner in Tampa Bay Should Know

You bought a new or new-to-you home in Tampa Bay, and one of the big sell points was a beautiful backyard oasis. Welcome to the pool ownership club! 

Whether you’ve just made the plunge (pun intended) into pool ownership or are considering taking the leap, as we move into spring’s warmer weather, you’re about to experience endless fun in your very own backyard oasis. But before you can sit back and relax with a cold drink in hand, there are a few things you should know to ensure your pool stays clean, safe, and always inviting. 

Let’s Dive into 7 Essential Tips for New Pool Owners in Tampa Bay!

1. Know Your Pool’s Personality

Every pool has its own personality. From the size and shape to the kind of filter and pump it has, your pool is unique. Knowing the ins and outs of your pool will help you maintain it more easily and prevent problems down the road. Start by reviewing the components of your set-up and making a  or calling a professional to get advice specific to your setup.

Also, hopefully, you had a comprehensive pool inspection done before purchase. If not, a pool inspection can be done at any time. Edge Pools can assess your pool and issue you a report to help you become more familiar with your pool and its needs

2. Skimming is Your New Best Friend

It’s easy to think that pool cleaning can wait until the weekend, but keeping up with daily skimming can save you a lot of work in the long run. Trust us, those leaves won’t just magically disappear—unless you have a team of fairy godmothers working for you. Regular skimming ensures your pool stays clear, preventing debris from clogging up the filtration system. And bonus, it gives you a few minutes of calm by the pool each time you take care of this chore!

3. Test Those Chemicals (It’s Not Just for Chemistry Nerds)

Balancing pool chemicals isn’t just for the science geeks out there—it’s actually pretty crucial for keeping your pool safe and sparkling. You don’t have to get into a full-on chemistry lesson, but testing your pool’s pH, chlorine, and alkalinity levels is key. Unbalanced chemicals can lead to cloudy water, irritated skin, health hazards, and even damage to your pool. So, keep a pool testing kit on hand and do a quick check every week.

If you just got a little anxious thinking about the time, energy, and knowledge you’ll need for DIY maintenance, skipping maintenance or guessing chemical levels aren’t options: You have a significant investment to protect. From balancing chemicals to checking your filter, a lot can go wrong if you’re unsure of what to do. That’s where we at Edge Pools come in! Our expert team can handle all the maintenance for you, so you can focus on the fun stuff—like diving in and enjoying that crystal-clear water. Whether it’s weekly cleaning, chemical testing, or filter inspections, we’ll take the guesswork out of pool care, ensuring your pool is always in tip-top shape.

4. Learn the Pump’s Schedule

The pump is the heart of your pool’s filtration system, and knowing how long and often it should run is essential. Generally, a pool pump should run 8-10 hours a day (depending on the size of your pool) to ensure the water stays clean. If you’re running it 24/7, your electric bill will shock you, and if you run it for too little, the water might get murky. It’s all about balance—consider it your pool’s version of a good workout routine.

5. Cover Your Pool (When You’re Not Using It!)

You don’t leave your favorite furniture pieces out in the rain, right? The same goes for your pool. If you’re not using it for an extended period (like during a vacation or overnight), a pool cover is a smart move. It keeps debris out, reduces evaporation, and prevents unwanted critters that are prevalent in Florida, like frogs and snakes, from taking a dip. Plus, it helps to keep the pool’s temperature more consistent—your pool will thank you!

6. Watch for the Small Stuff (Before It Becomes Big Stuff)

We get it. Pool maintenance can seem like a lot, especially when you’re a new pool owner. But keeping an eye on minor problems before they turn into big ones will save you tons of hassle (and a hefty repair bill). Check for loose tiles, cracks, or a weak water flow in your pump. If you spot something suspicious, it’s always better to call in a pro early—think of it like spotting a tiny leak in a tire before it flattens on you.

7. Get to Know Your Pool Service Team

Let’s be honest—no one has the time or energy to manage everything themselves, and that’s where a good pool service company comes in. Whether you need regular maintenance or the occasional repair, a trustworthy pool service team is worth their weight in gold. At Edge Pools, we’re proud to be the reliable, personable team that keeps pools sparkling across Tampa Bay. And we’re always here to help with a smile (and no judgment for how many floaties you might have in your pool).

Bonus Tip: Enjoy It!

Finally, don’t forget to relax and enjoy the reason you got the pool in the first place: to make memories and have fun! Don’t stress over every tiny detail—pool ownership is meant to be enjoyed. Follow these tips and leave the heavy lifting to the pros when needed. Now go ahead, fire up the grill, grab a cold drink, and invite some friends over to your backyard paradise.

Becoming a pool owner is a big deal, but with a bit of preparation, your backyard retreat will be the perfect place to unwind and have fun. 

These seven tips for new pool owners in Tampa Bay will help you keep your pool healthy, safe, and ready for swimming, even if you’re just floating with a good book. If you need help, Edge Pools is always here to assist with professional, reliable service. Contact us today!