End-of-Summer Water Testing Checklist for Pool Owners

End-of-Summer Water Testing Checklist for Pool Owners

As summer winds down, your pool has likely seen heavy use. Before closing it or preparing for cooler months, it’s essential to test and balance your pool water to prevent long-term issues. This end-of-summer water testing checklist will ensure your pool stays in great shape until next season.

1. Test Chlorine Levels

Summer activities and warmer temperatures can deplete chlorine levels, leaving your pool vulnerable to bacteria and algae. Use the Eagle Ray Digital Water Testing Kit to measure free and total chlorine. Adjust as necessary to maintain levels between 1–3 ppm.

2. Check pH and Alkalinity

High temperatures and heavy swimmer loads can throw off your pH and alkalinity balance. Test both parameters and aim for the following ranges:

  • pH: 7.2–7.6
  • Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm

If levels are out of range, use pH increasers or decreasers and alkalinity boosters to correct them.

3. Measure Calcium Hardness

Calcium hardness impacts your pool’s surfaces and equipment. Test for calcium levels and ensure they fall within the ideal range of 200–400 ppm. If levels are too low, add a calcium hardness increaser to protect your pool’s plaster or liner.

4. Inspect TDS Levels

High total dissolved solids (TDS) can result from heavy use and frequent chemical adjustments over the summer. Use a reliable tester to ensure TDS levels are below 1,500 ppm. If they’re too high, consider partially draining and refilling your pool.

5. Test for Phosphates

Phosphates can fuel algae growth, especially after a summer of rain and debris. Use a phosphate test kit to check levels, and apply a phosphate remover if needed to reduce levels below 100 ppb.

6. Shock Your Pool

Even if your chlorine levels appear balanced, shocking your pool at the end of summer removes residual contaminants from sunscreen, sweat, and organic matter. Follow the instructions for your preferred pool shock to restore sanitizer effectiveness.

7. Conduct a Final Test

After rebalancing and shocking your pool, test all parameters again to confirm everything is within the recommended ranges. This ensures your pool water is properly balanced for the off-season or continued use.

Why AquaDoc Is Your End-of-Summer Pool Care Partner

Simplify your water testing routine with the Eagle Ray Digital Water Testing Kit. For all your water care needs, explore AquaDoc’s comprehensive collection of pool care solutions to keep your pool in top condition year-round.

Enjoy Peace of Mind

By following this end-of-summer checklist, you can ensure your pool is clean, balanced, and ready for whatever the next season brings. Proper water testing and care protect your investment and make pool ownership stress-free.

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