Some pool tips for the summer season
BY NZONG XIONG

The Fresno Bee

With the temperature slowly climbing and the days getting longer, soon it’ll be time to put on the swimsuits or trunks and cool off in a pool.

In preparation for those relaxing days, take the opportunity to do some spring cleaning around your pool.

"Even though the weather is warming up, your pool water is still at 55 degrees and will take some time before it becomes warm enough for most people to swim," says Jon Heffernan of Wight Water Pool Service in Fresno, Calif. "But by taking a few precautions, you can make sure your pool is ready to use when that time comes."

Check the chemistry of your pool, making sure it’s balanced, says Tom Petersen, owner of Petersen’s Pool Service in Fresno.

A mistake people often make is "thinking they need to just test for chlorine," he says. "Test for alkalinity and pH, too."

Clean your pump baskets and filters. "We had some unusual weather this year, which caused a lot of debris to enter the pool," Heffernan says. "Now would be a good time to clean your filter before it gets real hot outside."

Timers for pumps should be adjusted. "As your water warms up more, you’ll also want to make sure your pump is running for the proper amount of time," he says. Run it "long enough so it is able to turn over your entire water volume at least once or twice a day."

Look over the motor and any other equipment to make sure they aren’t making any unusual noises or leaks. If they’re old, consider replacing them with newer, more efficient models.

"A lot of pumps are outdated and use a lot of electricity and water," Petersen says.

Double-check your safety equipment and supplies, Heffernan says. "As kids are starting to play in the yard, make sure all gates close and latch properly, and all other safety precautions are made," he says.

As you start to work more in yard and garden, keep in mind what you are planting.

"People usually like to plant during spring, so remember those trees and shrubs you may be thinking of planting will not always remain small," Heffernan says. "Make sure you put the right plants in the right areas to avoid extra work to your pool later."

While you might not even be thinking about entertaining in your pool right now, you want to be prepared.

"Going into summer, you want everything ready to go," Petersen says.