Wisconsin summers are a welcome reward after those long, cold months, and nothing beats the luxury of your own backyard pool. But keeping that sparkling blue water safe and enjoyable requires regular care—especially with our unique Midwest weather swings. As a seasoned Wisconsin pool builder, I’ve put together these straightforward summer maintenance tips so you can keep your pool in top shape all season long.
Start With a Thorough Pool Inspection and Cleaning
Before you dive in, start with a careful inspection and a good cleaning. Check for cracked tiles, loose coping, or any damage to the liner. Wisconsin winters can be tough on pool surfaces and structures, so it’s smart to catch issues early. Don’t forget to look at your pool deck and surrounding area—uneven concrete or missing grout can lead to slips or further damage down the line.
Once you’ve checked things over, give the pool a solid cleaning. Remove leaves, sticks, and other debris with a skimmer net. Don’t just rely on your automatic cleaner; some stubborn dirt settles in corners or along steps. Brush the pool walls and floor to prevent algae from taking hold, and vacuum thoroughly. This hands-on approach sets you up for a smooth start to the season.
Test and Balance Your Pool Water Chemistry Regularly
Consistent water testing is non-negotiable. Wisconsin’s weather can change rapidly, with storms, heat waves, and cool snaps all affecting your pool chemistry. Test the water at least once a week using reliable test strips or a liquid kit. You’re looking for balanced levels: pH should be 7.4 to 7.6, chlorine between 1 and 3 ppm, and alkalinity in the 80–120 ppm range.
If you find your levels are off, adjust them promptly. Low chlorine invites algae and bacteria, while high levels can irritate skin and eyes. Don’t forget to check calcium hardness, especially if you use well water or have a concrete pool—too much or too little can damage your surfaces and equipment. Balancing your water not only protects swimmers, it also extends the life of your pool materials and equipment.
Check and Maintain Your Pool’s Filtration System
A hardworking filtration system is the backbone of a clean pool, especially during hot, active months. Start by cleaning out your skimmer and pump baskets at least once a week—they can clog quickly with leaves, bugs, and pollen. For sand or DE filters, backwash as needed; for cartridge filters, hose them down thoroughly and replace them when they show signs of wear or tearing.
Don’t ignore your pump and filter housing. Make sure there aren’t any leaks, odd noises, or pressure changes. High pressure can indicate a blockage, while low pressure may signal an air leak or failing pump. Regularly lubricate O-rings and check for cracks in hoses or fittings. Addressing these issues early prevents expensive repairs and keeps your water circulating efficiently.
Address Common Wisconsin Pool Problems Early
Wisconsin pool owners often face unique challenges—sudden algae blooms after a storm, cloudy water from heavy rain, or early signs of rust and corrosion from fluctuating temperatures. If you notice greenish water or slippery steps, shock your pool and scrub affected areas right away. For cloudy water, check your filter and water balance, and run the pump longer to clear things up.
Be aware of mineral staining, especially if your water has high iron or manganese content. Brown or orange stains can set in fast, so treat them with the right stain remover and keep your metals in check with a sequestrant. Lastly, keep an eye on your pool cover and safety equipment; UV rays and weather can degrade them faster than you might expect. By tackling issues as they arise, you’ll avoid bigger headaches—and save yourself time and money.
Owning a pool in Wisconsin should be more fun than frustration. With routine inspections, water testing, equipment checks, and prompt problem-solving, you’ll keep your pool inviting all summer long. Stay diligent, and your backyard oasis will reward you with clear, cool water every time you’re ready to take the plunge.
