The Pool Maintenance Guide: Get your pool Summer-Ready

As summer approaches and the days get longer and hotter, there’s nothing better than relaxing by a sparkling, clean swimming pool. But before you dive in, it’s essential to ensure your pool is in top shape, both for safety and enjoyment. We know that proper pool maintenance isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about protecting your investment, keeping your family safe, and making sure your pool equipment lasts for years to come.

This guide covers everything you need to get your pool ready for summer, whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring a trusted pool cleaning service in Baton Rouge.

Why Pool Maintenance Matters

Neglecting your pool for even a short period can lead to cloudy water, algae growth, unsafe swimming conditions, and expensive repairs. Routine pool maintenance keeps the water clean, ensures your equipment functions efficiently, and saves you money in the long run.

Step-by-Step Pool Maintenance Checklist

1. Remove and Store the Pool Cover

Start by removing your winter cover. Avoid dumping leaves, twigs, or dirty water into the pool. Rinse and dry the cover thoroughly before storing it in a clean, dry place to prevent mildew and damage.

2. Inspect Pool Equipment

Before starting the filtration system, check for any visible signs of wear or damage on your:

Pump and motor
Filter (cartridge, sand, or DE)
Skimmer baskets and pump baskets
Pool heater
Hoses and plumbing connections

Make sure everything is connected properly and replace any broken parts.

3. Clean the Pool Thoroughly

Even with a cover, dirt and debris will find a way into your pool. Begin with:

Skimming the surface – Use a net to remove floating debris.
Brushing the walls and tiles – Prevent algae buildup and staining.
Vacuuming the bottom – Whether using a manual or automatic pool cleaner, vacuuming ensures a debris-free pool floor.

A robotic pool cleaner is a convenient option that scrubs and vacuums automatically, saving you time and energy.

4. Refill and Balance the Water

Make sure your pool’s water level is at the mid-point of the skimmer opening. Top it off with a hose if it’s too low, especially after evaporation or backwashing. Once it’s filled, test the water using a reliable test kit.

Ideal chemical levels:

pH: 7.2 – 7.6
Chlorine: 1 – 3 ppm
Total Alkalinity: 80 – 120 ppm
Calcium Hardness: 200 – 400 ppm

Balancing your pool water ensures it’s safe to swim in and helps extend the life of your pool surfaces and equipment.

5. Shock the Pool

Once your chemicals are balanced, it’s a good idea to “shock” the pool with a high dose of chlorine. This eliminates lingering bacteria, organic waste, and algae spores. Shock your pool in the evening and let it circulate overnight before swimming.

6. Backwash or Clean the Filter

Depending on your filtration system:

Cartridge filters should be removed and rinsed.
Sand and DE filters should be backwashed to flush out dirt and debris.

Cleaning your filter regularly ensures water circulates properly and stays crystal clear.

7. Set Up a Weekly Pool Maintenance Routine

Consistency is key to keeping your pool clean throughout the summer. Here’s a basic schedule:

Daily:

Skim leaves and debris
Check the skimmer and pump baskets
Monitor the water level

Weekly:

Brush pool walls
Vacuum the pool (or use an automatic pool cleaner)
Test and balance the water chemistry
Clean the filter (as needed)

Signs You Need a Professional Pool Cleaning Service

While many homeowners can handle basic pool care, sometimes it’s best to leave it to the pros. Here are signs you may need a pool cleaning service:

You’re short on time or don’t want the hassle
Your pool water remains cloudy despite your efforts
You see algae forming on the walls or the floor
Your pool equipment is malfunctioning
You want to prepare your pool for a special event

Hiring a trusted pool cleaning service like the one offered by Pinnacle Exterior Construction gives you peace of mind and more time to enjoy your pool.

Benefits of Hiring Us for Pool Cleaning Service

Choosing Pinnacle Exterior Construction means you’re getting more than just a cleaning crew—you’re getting a team of trained professionals who value the quality, safety, and longevity of your pool. Here’s what sets us apart:

✔ Full-Service Maintenance

We handle everything from water testing and chemical balancing to deep scrubbing and equipment checks.

✔ Expert Technicians

Our team understands pool systems inside and out, ensuring any issues are diagnosed and fixed fast.

✔ Custom Scheduling

Whether you need weekly maintenance or a one-time deep clean, we tailor our services to fit your needs.

✔ Local, Reliable Service

As a Baton Rouge-based company, we’re your neighbors, and we treat your property with the same care as our own.

Pro Pool Maintenance Tips

Here are a few pro tips from our experts to keep your pool in tip-top shape all summer:

Use a solar cover to retain heat and reduce water evaporation.
Run your pool pump for at least 8 hours a day to keep water circulating.
Keep trees trimmed near your pool to reduce falling leaves and debris.
Store pool chemicals properly—away from heat, moisture, and sunlight.

Final Thoughts

Pool season should be fun, not stressful. With proper planning and routine pool maintenance, you can enjoy clean, safe water all summer long. Whether you’re taking care of the pool yourself with a good cleaner or want a pro to handle it, Pinnacle Exterior Construction has you covered.

Don’t wait until the heat hits—schedule your pool cleaning today and make a splash this summer!