Florida Pool Maintenance: The 7 Dos and Don’ts for Keeping Your Pool in Prime Condition Year-Round

Living in Florida offers many benefits, including the luxury of enjoying your pool any day of the year. There’s no need for the annual ritual of winterizing, thawing, and reopening that our northern neighbors endure. However, maintaining a pool in Florida comes with its own unique challenges. To help you keep your pool in pristine condition, here are some practical dos and don’ts with a touch of seasoned wisdom from us here at Edge Pools, Tampa’s premier residential and commercial pool service and repair company.

Before we get into the details, remember that each pool has its own personality—just like its owner. Always consult your manufacturer’s manual or a pool expert for advice specific to your setup. Let’s dive into some guidelines to help your pool stay clear, clean, and inviting. 

Here are 7 Dos and Don’ts for Keeping Your Pool in Prime Condition Year-Round.

1. Water Levels: The Balance Between Too Much and Too Little

**DO** monitor your pool’s water level regularly. Florida’s heat can cause rapid evaporation, and low water levels can strain your pump, leading to potential damage. Keeping the water topped off is like making sure your car has enough oil—it’s a small task that prevents big problems.

**DON’T** assume that all water loss is due to evaporation, especially during the sweltering summer months. Significant water loss could be a sign of a leak. In this case, a little detective work now can save you a lot of headaches (and money) later.

2. Maintenance: A Little Effort Goes a Long Way

**DO** skim the surface of your pool every few days. It’s a simple task that prevents debris from mucking up your filtration system and keeps your water inviting. Think of it as your pool’s version of tidying up—quick, easy, and remarkably effective.

**DON’T** neglect your strainer baskets. Cleaning them out weekly is crucial for maintaining good circulation and minimizing the amount of chlorine your pool needs. Consider it the pool equivalent of clearing out your email inbox—tedious but ultimately rewarding.

3. Circulation: Keeping Things Moving

**DO** run your pump daily for 6-10 hours. Proper circulation is essential for distributing chemicals evenly and preventing algae growth. It’s akin to keeping a steady flow of conversation at a dinner party—just enough to keep things lively without overdoing it.

**DON’T** run your pump non-stop. Continuous operation can overheat the pump and lead to unnecessary wear and tear. It’s a bit like leaving your car running all night—there’s no benefit, and it’ll only cause problems down the line.

4. Filtration: The Heart of Your Pool’s Cleanliness

**DO** watch your filter’s pressure gauge closely. Watch your pressure gauge closely. Once the pressure raises 10psi from the clean pressure, it’s time to clean the filter. Closely monitoring your filter pressure gauge isn’t about being obsessive; it’s about efficiency. After all, a filter that’s too clogged is like a coffee machine that’s overdue for descaling—it won’t perform at its best.

**DON’T** over-clean your filter. A bit of dirt can actually help the filter do its job more effectively by trapping additional debris. It’s one of those counterintuitive truths—like how leaving some crumbs in your toaster somehow makes the next slice of toast taste better.

5. Draining: Handle with Precision

**DO** follow your manufacturer’s advice on draining your pool, if necessary. Remember to turn off the pump first to avoid damaging the system. Draining your pool is a serious task, not unlike decluttering your garage—essential at times but not something to be done on a whim.

**DON’T** leave your pool empty for too long. In Florida, an empty pool is vulnerable to the forces of nature, particularly ground pressure, which can cause it to lift out of place. Imagine your pool deciding to relocate itself—probably not the kind of surprise you’re looking for. Also, don’t completely drain your pool when a hurricane approaches. Read this blog on our website

6. Cleaning: Consistency Is Key

**DO** vacuum your pool weekly to keep the bottom clear of debris. Regular cleaning reduces the need for extra chemicals and helps prevent stains from forming. Small, consistent efforts make the whole space more pleasant and functional.

**DON’T** use a stiff-bristle brush unless your pool has a plaster lining. For vinyl, fiberglass, or tile surfaces, opt for something gentler. This is no different than choosing the right brush for your hair—you wouldn’t want to damage something you’ve worked hard to maintain.

7. Chemicals: Finding the Perfect Balance

**DO** regularly test your pool’s chemical levels to maintain a healthy balance. Aim for a pH between 7.2 and 7.6, with chlorine levels around 2-5 ppm. Adjusting your pool’s chemicals isn’t just about clear water; it’s about creating a safe environment for swimmers.

**DON’T** forget to brush your pool walls and tiles regularly. Even with proper chemical balance, algae and grime can build up on the surfaces over time. A quick brush down prevents this buildup and keeps your pool looking spotless. Think of it as flossing your teeth—easy to overlook but crucial for long-term cleanliness.

Final Thoughts: A Well-Maintained Florida Pool Is a Happy Pool

Owning a pool in Florida is a year-round pleasure, but it requires thoughtful maintenance to keep it that way. Following these dos and don’ts ensure your pool remains a clean, safe, and enjoyable retreat. Additionally, and maybe most importantly, your pool is a large part of your home’s value; therefore, you want to keep it in tip-top shape. 

Just like you go in for an annual wellness check, don’t forget to routinely check your pool’s electrical connections and have your pump serviced annually. You’ll prevent minor issues from becoming major concerns.

Pools offer hours of enjoyment but take time to maintain properly. If keeping up your pool feels overwhelming or you could use your time for your business or family’s needs, Edge Pools is here to lend a hand. Contact us for expert advice and professional services tailored to your pool’s specific needs. After all, your time is better spent enjoying the water, not just maintaining it.