How to Keep Your Custom Pool Looking Brand New Year After Year

A beautifully designed swimming pool is a valuable investment that adds both aesthetic appeal and functionality to your home. However, to ensure it remains a sparkling oasis for years to come, proper maintenance is essential.

At Ocean Blue Pools, we specialize in building beautiful custom pools that are designed to provide you with years - even decades! - of fun and relaxation. However, even the most expertly designed in-ground pools need regular maintenance in order to keep them functional and aesthetically pleasing.

If you are thinking about building a custom pool in Houston or the surrounding area, or just had one built by our team, this guide will help ensure that your pool remains in top shape for years to come. 

Maintain Proper Water Circulation

Water circulation is the foundation of a healthy pool. Without proper circulation, your pool water becomes stagnant, making it prone to algae growth and bacterial contamination. To maintain optimal water movement:

• Keep your pool pump and filter running for at least 8–12 hours a day during peak season.

• Ensure that all return jets are angled downward to create a uniform water flow.

• Clean out skimmer baskets regularly to prevent blockages.

• Consider investing in a variable-speed pump for energy efficiency and better circulation.

Regularly Clean the Pool Surface and Floor

Keeping your pool free of debris not only enhances its appearance but also helps maintain proper water chemistry.

• Skimming: Use a pool skimmer daily to remove leaves, bugs, and other floating debris.

• Brushing: Brush the pool walls and floor weekly to prevent algae buildup and remove dirt.

• Vacuuming: Use an automatic pool cleaner or manual vacuum at least once a week to keep the floor spotless.

  
  

Monitor and Balance Water Chemistry

This is a big one. Water chemistry plays a crucial role in maintaining a safe and comfortable swimming environment. Test your water at least twice a week using a reliable pool test kit. Here are the key chemical levels to monitor:

• pH Levels: Keep pH between 7.4 – 7.6 to prevent irritation and scaling.

• Chlorine: Maintain chlorine levels between 1.0 – 3.0 ppm to disinfect the water.

• Alkalinity: Keep total alkalinity between 80 – 120 ppm to stabilize pH.

• Calcium Hardness: Maintain levels between 200 – 400 ppm to prevent damage to pool surfaces.

• Cyanuric Acid: Ensure stabilizer levels are between 30 – 50 ppm to protect chlorine from sun degradation.

Not only does pH play a role in how the water affects your skin (and thus the swimming pool experience as a whole), but also how the water interacts with and affects the pool itself. An unbalanced pH can, over time, deteriorate the integrity of the pool. It can even limit the effectiveness of chlorine and corrode vital equipment.

Keep Your Pool Filter Clean

Your pool filter is responsible for removing contaminants and keeping the water clear. Different filter types require different maintenance:

• Sand Filters: Backwash the filter when the pressure gauge reads 8–10 psi above normal.

• Cartridge Filters: Remove and rinse the cartridge every 2–4 weeks, and replace it annually.

• DE (Diatomaceous Earth) Filters: Backwash and add fresh DE powder as needed, typically every 4–6 weeks.

  
  

Shock Your Pool Regularly

Shocking your pool helps break down contaminants such as sweat, oils, and algae. Use a pool shock treatment every 1–2 weeks, especially after heavy pool usage or storms. Ensure you follow manufacturer instructions and wait the recommended time before swimming.

Maintain Proper Water Levels

Water levels fluctuate due to evaporation, splashing, and backwashing. Check your water levels weekly and keep them halfway up the skimmer opening. If levels are too low, refill with fresh water; if too high, drain excess water using a submersible pump.

Inspect Pool Equipment Regularly

Check your pool’s pump, heater, and plumbing for signs of wear and leaks. Address minor issues promptly to avoid costly repairs. If you notice unusual noises, reduced water flow, or inconsistent heating, contact a professional for servicing.

Schedule Professional Pool Service

Even with diligent maintenance, having a professional pool service inspect your pool annually ensures optimal performance. If you have just had a beautiful custom pool built or are about to install one, penciling in some pool maintenance into your yearly budget isn’t a bad idea at all.

Still Haven’t Built Your Dream Pool?

Owning a beautiful pool is a rewarding experience, and something we take pride in helping home-owners achieve. A custom pool acts like a personal oasis and escape - and also a great place for family gatherings and parties.

Regular maintenance is key to keeping it safe, clean, and inviting, however. It’s so important to the longevity of a pool, realizing that they are by no means self-regulating. Like most things, they require a fair amount of attention and maintenance. Even professionally designed, luxury-style custom pools.

By following the essential pool care tips above, you’ll protect your investment and enjoy crystal-clear water season after season.

If you still haven’t made the decision to get a custom pool designed, and if you are located in Houston or close by, give us a call! We are expert custom pool contractors that can answer your questions and help bring your dream to life - we have designed a wide range of custom pools, so if you have a vision, we can help you tackle it.