Keeping Pools Cool in Hot Summer
When the heat is intense, these simple steps can help keep your pool water cooler and more enjoyable:
1. Use a Pool Cover or Solar Blanket
While pool covers are often linked to trapping heat, they also play a key role in blocking direct sunlight. A cover helps stop water from heating up and reduces evaporation, keeping your pool cooler and saving water.
2. Run Your Pool Pump and Filter at Night
Nighttime temperatures are lower, so operating your pump and filter during these hours helps circulate cooler water throughout the pool. This also eases stress on your equipment during the hottest parts of the day.
3. Add Water Features
Water features like fountains or waterfalls are attractive additions to a pool, but they also help aerate and cool the water naturally. Moving water releases heat faster than still water, helping maintain a more refreshing temperature.
4. Create Shade
Strategically placed umbrellas, shade sails, or landscaping can block direct sunlight from warming your pool. Many people position their pools to get plenty of sun, but if one area gets particularly hot, adding shade can make it much more comfortable. This not only keeps the water cooler but also creates a nicer space for relaxing by the pool.
Tips to Protect Water Chemistry and Prevent Algae
Hot weather can disrupt water chemistry, but with regular care, you can keep your pool clean and safe.
1. Test Water Regularly
Extreme heat can cause rapid changes in water chemistry, so check your pool’s pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels more often during hot weather. The ideal ranges are:
· pH: 7.2–7.8
· Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm
· Chlorine: 1–3 ppm
2. Use Stabilizers to Protect Chlorine
Cyanuric acid acts as a stabilizer, protecting chlorine from breaking down under UV rays. This ensures chlorine remains effective longer, even in strong summer sunlight.
3. Shock the Pool After Heavy Use or Heatwaves
High temperatures and more swimmers can quickly deplete chlorine levels. Shocking your pool restores chlorine and helps eliminate contaminants that lead to algae and bacteria growth.
4. Brush and Vacuum Often
Warm water and sunlight create perfect conditions for algae to grow. Regularly brushing pool walls and vacuuming debris helps prevent algae buildup and keeps your pool looking its best.
Tips to Reduce Evaporation and Save Water
Evaporation is a big issue in hot weather, but these tips can help minimize it:
1. Use a Pool Cover
A quality pool cover cuts evaporation by up to 90%, helping you save water and preserve chemicals.
2. Fix Leaks Right Away
Even a small leak can waste a lot of water in summer. If you suspect a leak, address it promptly to avoid bigger problems.
3. Keep Water Levels Steady
Low water levels can strain your pump and filtration system, so check and refill your pool regularly to keep the water at the right level.
Protecting Your Equipment in Extreme Heat
Your pool equipment works hard to keep water clean and circulating, but extreme heat can add extra stress.
1. Clean Filters Regularly
Dirty filters can block water flow, making your pump work harder than needed. Clean filters regularly to ensure proper circulation.
2. Inspect Pumps and Heaters
Check your pump and heater for signs of wear or overheating. Taking care of small issues early can prevent costly repairs later.
3. Avoid Overworking Equipment
Limit operation during the hottest parts of the day to reduce strain on your pump and other equipment. Running them at night is a good alternative.
Enjoy Your Pool All Summer Long
Don’t let summer heat ruin your pool fun. With the right care and smart strategies, you can keep your pool cool, refreshing, and ready for endless summer days.
Need help with maintenance or water testing? Reach out to pool care professionals to schedule services and take the guesswork out of keeping your pool in top shape this summer!