Keep Your Pool from Drowning Your Budget

May 22, 2008 By Tisha (Kulak) Tolar

Summer time fun doesn’t always have to cost your family and arm and a leg. If your family is lucky to have a pool in the backyard, it can definitely keep the costs of summer fun down. Inviting family and friends over for a potluck dinner and a swim can be a lot of fun. Everyone saves on gas and the expenses of buying a pool pass or spending money for other activities.

However, owning a pool can also be an expense but with basic maintenance and routine cleanings, your family pool doesn’t have to drown your budget. Here are some tips to keep your pool fresh and clean without blowing your budget apart.

Routine Maintenance is Key

• Carefully review the manufacturer’s instructions for direction on the optimum maintenance plan to preserve your pool and equipment.

• Skim the water twice daily (more often depending on the frequency of use and the amount of debris). Leaves, insects, and other debris can clog the filter. Keeping the debris away from the filter will help prolog the life of the filter.

• Empty the skimmer basket everyday.

• Regularly brush the sides of the pool to keep it algae-free and to remove dirt.

• Vacuum the bottom of the pool every day after use to remove the debris from the bottom of the pool to keep the water clean and prevent damage to the liner.

• Keep the water levels consistent so the filter will function properly. Having to backwash the filter too often causes the water to become unbalanced and more chemicals will need to be added to keep the water balanced. Adding more chemicals means spending more money.

• Water should be tested daily to make sure the chemical levels are proper. The pH level needs to be correct otherwise your pool fixtures could become corroded and the swimmers will suffer from bring eyes and possible skin issues. Shocking the pool by adding chlorine each week will help fight bacteria, especially when the pool is used often.

• Adding an algaecide each week can also prevent algae and other bacteria from building up in your pool.

• If you are not confident in your abilities to maintain or add proper chemicals, a pool supply store should be able to test a sample of your pool water for you and recommend what you need to do and how often. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice.

• Run the pump when needed but use a timer to keep your electric bill from skyrocketing. If you are running the pump during most of the day, turn it off at night turn save energy.

Posted in budgeting, children, entertainment, family, financial planners, lifestyle

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