When we first got our above ground pool there was a lot of hit and miss information out there. I found it overwhelming, confusing and frustrating; but after a few years, I have come up with a VERY simple and easy way to enjoy our pool with no headaches attached and you can too! I am going to show you the exact type of products I use, (or very similar), and the regime I use to maintain a clean and safe swimming pool for my family to enjoy all summer long, and you can do it too, it’s EASY!The first two years we had a large above ground pool we had water delivered so we could have beautiful clear water to swim in. That was expensive, over $500.00 each spring. Then, in only a few short days, the water would become murky! Even though we added fresh hose water as the water evaporated, it did not remedy the problem. In fact the problem just expanded quickly and our pool was looking and feeling gross. Different elements such as a summer rain storm, a lot of pool use or a heat wave seemed to create the same results, murky water.

Inflatable Adult Size Sea Turtle Pool Float 

I didn’t want to use excessive chemicals, but by not using the proper amounts, I created a few other problems, like excessive algae which made the pool green, brown and slimy. I was trying to avoid using chemicals altogether, but found out rather quickly that that was just plain dumb and could be dangerous. I didn’t want my family swimming in a bacteria infested pool that would cause skin and eye infections, abdominal pain and cramping, or yuck…diarrhea and vomiting! After a lot of research and talking to water specialists, I realized pool chemicals in the proper amounts are a necessity to prevent algae and bacteria from growing in the water, so I quickly adjusted my thinking.

Sand Filter and Pump System

I noticed when I added chemicals and replaced the paper cylinder filter with a Sand Filter and Pump system, and I had the pump running, filtering and circulating the water for longer periods of time, (the pump runs pretty much 24/7 now), the water became crystal clear and there was no algae. So, the next spring, I decided to just fill the pool with well water and rotate the addition of chemicals every day, every 12 hours, for a week, and see what would happen. First I would test the water daily, then add the necessary chemical.

Well, to my delight, within five days, the water became beautifully clear and it was a joy to hop in the pool! I no longer worried about skin infections harming my family or a slimy, slippery, algae covered floor and pool wall. This was fantastic! Such an easy solution! How awesome! I was thrilled!

A few pointers: I really stressed no peeing in the pool and insisted we did not want to be swimming in a toilet. Besides, when there is urine in a pool, the chlorine addition has to be quite high and that is my biggest complaint about public pools. So, plant a big bush for the boys to do their business behind, and they will because what male doesn’t like to pee outdoors? And stress for everyone to use the washroom before they go outside to the pool. (I am talking kids here, the adults should know better).

Also, test your water at least every 2nd day with AQUACHEK 4 in 1 Test Strips. They say every day on the package, but, once you have the hang of regulating the chemicals every 2nd day should work. They aren’t very expensive though so if you feel unsure a daily test is the right way to go. Remember, it’s far easier to prevent then to remedy a pool problem later.  When the weather is very hot and you are adding water more often because of evaporation, back washing or vacuuming, you will want to check your water daily until it’s back to correct levels. Chlorine tends to dissipate a bit more quickly on hot sunny days  and  since  this  is  usually  when  the  pool  gets  a lot  of  use  as well, it’s smart  to  keep  a closer eye  on  your  chemical  levels  with  the a  test  strip.

Intex Popsicle Inflatable Pool Float

Another huge problem for us was the pool filter system. I found the continual, daily cleaning of paper filters to be annoying and time consuming. Also, paper filters are an ongoing replacement purchase. Constantly buying and cleaning the paper filters was nothing but a huge hassle!  So, we decided to buy and attach a Sand Filter and Pump system. It was worth the investment since the accumulated yearly cost of paper filters was far more than the cost of a Sand Filter and Pump system.

Sand Filter Pump System

The sand filter and pump are more efficient and longer lasting in the long run. The little motor and filter system that comes with an above ground pool is not efficient enough to circulate and filter the large amount of water held in these pools. It might be sufficient for the smaller versions of above ground pools available. You could try it first and see if it works for you.

Disney Ariel Beach Towel

My son created a YouTube video showing how he put it all together, the equation to figure the volume of water in your pool as well as an added bonus pool heating system to warm the water temperature up a bit quicker.

Our pool is over 5 years old now and came with a paper filter and small motor, but as I research the new pools on the market, some now come with a sand filter and larger motor. I believe these are much better and will help keep your pool well filtered and circulated. I would definitely put one of those pools at the top of my purchasing choices. Or, you could do what we did and buy the motor and sand filter separately and attach it.

Intex 32ft X 16ft X 52in Ultra Frame Rectangular Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, Ground Cloth and Pool Cover

No matter what size pool you have, when it’s been a long, hot day, it feels amazing to relax in a cool, refreshing pool!

Intex Ultra XTR Frame Pool Set

Putting the pool cover on every night was a huge problem, and difficult, not to mention extremely frustrating! When we did use the cover I noticed that there was a lot more algae. Finally, I was advised not to use it as it was just creating a science experiment. When we stopped using the cover the algae stopped growing and after a few vacuums, it was completely gone.

Men’s Swim Trunks

Speaking of vacuums, the little vacuums they provide with the pool, or you purchase separately, won’t pick up the algae from the water. The algae will just escape through the cloth bag provided. The vacuum system I use is listed below. Of course, the proper use of chemicals will prevent the algae in the first place. Remember though, algae and bacteria grow crazy fast! One day is all it takes to create the beginning of a huge problem!

A photo example of a small vacuum with a fabric bag. 

Paper Filters must be cleaned and replaced regularly

It would be a good investment to purchase a vacuum that would attach to a Sand Filter and Pump. Then you would vacuum to waste all the debris and algae right out of your pool. That is much more efficient in solving the algae problem quickly. It may take a few vacuums, and more often if you have a lot of algae, but, as long as you use the chemicals, the problem will be quickly remedied. Of course, using the chemicals, especially chlorine, will control the problem before it gets out of hand in the first place. Also shock your pool weekly. That is a super chlorinating product that will destroy any bacteria the other products don’t kill and is very beneficial during heat waves, high use times or after summer rain storms. Remember, prevention is your key to a beautiful pool.

So, the 3 important steps to have crystal clear pool water are:

1.   Chemicals

2.  Circulation

3.  Filtration

Floating Water Hammock Lounge Chair

An important, easy rule we have at our house is that the first person in the pool does a quick clean up with the Net Skimmer with Telescopic Pole. It’s inevitable that there will be wasps, leaves, grass and other miscellaneous items floating on top or that have sunk to the bottom of the pool. It’s best to clear those up daily to keep your pool clean and sparkly.

You will need to vacuum the bottom of your pool every 1-2 weeks, depending on the amount of debris there is. The vacuum system that comes with these pools is not very adequate. I use a 1 HP motor Sand Filter and Pump system and an efficient larger vacuum unit. This will clean the bottom of your pool with a stronger suction, and immediately discharge the dirt and algae. This makes it much easier to get the job done quickly and it’s so satisfying to see a beautiful clean pool! Ultimately, a few upgrades to these pools will make it easier to maintain and increase your enjoyment of it. These are the 3 vacuum tools I use for my pool:

Weighted Pool and Spa Vacuum Head

Swimline 3-Piece Anodized Telescopic Pole

Swimming Pool Vacuum Hose

Vacuum Hose with Standard Cuff & Hose Reel

Clownfish Beach Towel

The following are the 5 types of chemicals I use to maintain a crystal clear and safe pool.  Just click on the links and you can have them all at your home helping you maintain clear, clean swimming water. I usually purchase the larger containers mainly because they will last longer and have more quantity for the price. I find when I buy a large bucket, for example, the chlorine pucks, it will last most of the summer, depending on the size of your pool and how much you need to use of course.

Clorox has been in the pool and spa business since 2011 and is a trusted brand and favorite for many backyard pool enthusiasts.

Test your water often with Test Strips

Algicide once a week

Shock once a week

Stabalizer when needed

Chlorine is used on going

Stain/Metal Control once a week

I used Sequest Plus in my video, but could not find it on line. After researching, Clorox Pool & Spa Scale, Metal and Stain Control seems to be the most similar in the Clorox brand. Even if you don’t have scale from hard water, rain water will create scale which attaches to the sides of your pool and is difficult to remove no matter how hard you scrub! This product will also remove metal stains like iron and copper from rain water, and it will help prevent the metals on your pool tools, for instance your ladder and pool frame, from rusting and help them to last longer.

Lil’ Sea Turtle Ride-On

In my post, How to Have Clean Safe Pool Water, I explain in simple terms, the few steps necessary to have beautiful water, why these simple steps are so important and how to accomplish them easily.

Another post that will help you to easily understand what each chemical does and why you need them in your pool is: How to Use hth Pool Chemicals.

If you’d like to see my Pool Maintenance Schedule you will see the In The Swim Pool brand’s version of the same products listed here and see how easy it is to maintain a great pool.

After learning all this, the last few years have been a breeze and our family has been so happy with the results! I hope all these techniques help save you time so you too can have a fantastic season full of fun! Enjoy your pool and have a beautiful summer!!

Super Soft Plush Cotton Beach, Bath or Pool Towel

Pole Hanger Set, Aluminum Hooks for Leaf Rakes, Skimmers and Vacuum Hoses

National Bikini Day: Buy 3 get 12% OFF With Code: SUMMER End on: July 9th.