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Grilling and chillin'

Tips to keep your pool sweet and cool when the days heat up

As soon as it gets hot, what do we think?  Water!  Seeing the potential in our own yard can motivate us to start the summer fun.  If you've got a backyard pool, it's so easy to invite a few friends over, put burgers on the grill and have a wonderful time in your personal paradise.

 Here are a few tips to help you manage your pool and maximize your enjoyment:

1.  Use your water test kit regularly.  To maintain crystal clear water, you must be proactive.  The chemistry of your pool needs to be checked whenever there are any environmental changes, even something as simple as rain.  Additionally, swimmers affect pH and chlorine levels due to body fluids -- perspiration, saliva, sunscreen, diaper accidents, etc. -- requiring an adjustment of chemicals.

2.  Keep excess weight off your pool cover as it will displace your water and force water out of the pool.

3.  Skim debris from the surface of the water frequently.  Leaves may stain the bottom of your pool.

4.  Brush and vacuum on a regular basis.  This will remove the algae and slime that easily builds up on the bottom and sides of a pool.  Debris quickly removed will not have the opportunity to create permanent staining.

5.  Run your filter for the recommended length of time each day.  And remember, backwashing your filter whenever the pressure diminishes is essential for keeping your water clean and clear.

These simple at-home steps will keep your pool more fun and less work -- but remember, if you have concerns or questions, your pool professionals are just a phone call away.