How Do I Take Care of My Pool During a Heat Wave?
During a heat wave, a pool uses up chlorine faster, grows algae faster, and loses more water to evaporation. Test chlorine and pH at least every other day, add chlorine in the evening, run the pump longer, and keep the water level at the middle of the skimmer. In Bakersfield, stretches above 100 degrees can turn a clear pool green in a couple of days if chlorine drops to zero.
What does extreme heat do to a pool?
- Burns off chlorine. Strong sun and hot water use it up much faster.
- Speeds up algae. Warm water is ideal for it.
- Evaporates water. The level can drop below the skimmer, and then the pump sucks air.
- Concentrates minerals. Calcium and stabilizer climb as water evaporates.
- Pushes pH up, which weakens chlorine and causes scale.
- Brings more swimmers, sweat, and sunscreen.
What should I do during a heat wave?
- Step 1: Test free chlorine and pH at least every other day.
- Step 2: Keep free chlorine at the top of its range, and add it in the evening.
- Step 3: Run the pump longer, 10 to 12 hours or more a day.
- Step 4: Check the water level daily and top it off to the middle of the skimmer.
- Step 5: Keep pH at 7.2 to 7.6.
- Step 6: Empty the baskets, and clean the filter if pressure is up 8 to 10 psi.
- Step 7: Brush the walls and steps twice a week.
- Step 8: Shock after heavy use.
- Step 9: Salt pools: turn up the chlorinator output, and add liquid chlorine if the cell cannot keep up.
What should I check before the heat arrives?
Check stabilizer first. Without enough, the sun strips chlorine in hours, and with too much, chlorine stops working well. Aim for 30 to 50 ppm, or 60 to 80 ppm for a salt pool. Clean the filter, make sure the pump timer is set for summer hours, and stock up on chlorine. Liquid chlorine loses strength in heat, so store it in a cool, shaded place and buy what you will use in a couple of weeks.
When should I bring in a water sample?
Bring a sample before a long hot stretch, and again if the water turns dull, cloudy, or green. Take the sample from elbow deep and keep it out of a hot car, because chlorine fades fast in heat. We'll test it free and tell you what to add and how much.
Should I drain or refill my pool during a heat wave?
Top it off as needed, but do not drain a pool in summer heat. Sun and heat can crack exposed plaster.
Why does my pool turn green so fast in hot weather?
Heat speeds up algae growth and burns off chlorine at the same time. One day at zero chlorine can be enough.
Does a pool lose more water in a heat wave?
Yes. About a quarter inch a day is normal in summer, and hot, dry wind takes more.
Should I run my pool pump longer when it is hot?
Yes. Run it 10 to 12 hours or more in extreme heat.
Don't cry, we can help
Bring a water sample to Top Dog Pool Supply. Local pool owners get a free water test on our Taylor Xpress Flex system, and we'll tell you what to add, and how much, for your pool's size.
Visit us at 7440 District Blvd Suite B, Bakersfield, CA 93313, or call (661) 664-9000. We're open Monday to Friday 9 to 5, Saturday 9 to 4, and Sundays 10 to 4 from April through September.