2. Use a Skimmer
Skimming leaves and other debris off the surface of your pool is the best way to keep it clean. Once debris sinks, it becomes harder to remove.

3. Vacuum Regularly
For debris that does sink, use a pool vacuum to clean the bottom and sides of your pool. Pay particular attention to places where debris has collected, making sure to get any residue that the debris has left as well.

4. Brush Walls and Tile
Brushing walls and pool tiles goes one step further than just vacuuming. This can really go a long way in terms of reducing algae buildup.

5. Clear out Baskets and Clean The Filter
Baskets and filters keep debris from getting to the water re-circulator, but when these get clogged they can’t do their job. If they get saturated enough they will let particulate and debris through, doing damage to your pool’s expensive internal parts.

6. Maintain Water Level
Water level will drop in the summer due to evaporation, but maintaining water level is a good way to keep your pool clean. Letting water level drop can cause a scummy ring around the top of your pool.

7. Keep Proper pH
When the pH balance of your pool is off the water suffers. Make sure that you’re checking your pool’s pH levels regularly.

8. Fix Leaks
Even small leaks can cause big problems because they can let things seep in, and grow in the crack. If your pool has a leak, get it fixed asap.

9. Keep Pets Out of the Water
It’s fun to let dogs jump into the water with you, but dogs have a tendency to carry dirt, bugs, grass and other unwanted items into the water. If you want fido to join you while you swim, have him or her wash their paws off before taking a plunge.

10. Keep an Eye on Kids
Kids are notorious for throwing things into the pool. If it’s on the ground, they’ll put it in the pool! Keep an eye on kids to ensure nothing gets into the pool that will dirty the water or cause damage to your filtration system.

With a little bit of work, you can have a clear, beautiful pool all summer long!

The Dolphin Premier

• Overall Rating of 9.2
• Retails around $1,599
• Rated excellent with green algae
• Rated good with cleaning steps
• MicroCartidge Ultrafine Bag 2 Micron
• Runs a 3 hour cycle time
• 3 years full warranty

The Dolphin Quest

• Overall Rating of 8.5
• Retails around $1,199
• Rated good with green algae
• Rated fair with cleaning steps
• MicroCartidge Ultrafine Bag 2 Micron
• Runs a 2.5 hour cycle time
• 2 years full warranty

The Blue Pearl

• Overall Rating of 8
• Retails around $1,099
• Rated fair with green algae
• Rated fair with cleaning steps
• Bag 2 Micron
• Runs a 3 hour cycle time
• 1 year full warranty

The Dolphin Diagnostic

• Overall Rating of 6.5
• Retails around $1,599
• Rated good with green algae
• Rated fair with cleaning steps
• Ultrafine Bag 2 Micron
• Runs a 3 hour cycle time
• 2 years full warranty

When spending the amount of money that most cleaners cost it is important that you aren’t settling in any category, and are genuinely happy with the overall results day after day. Get to know your pool and how it really operates; then after narrowing your choices down compare the product details of your top picks to help determine the best match for you and your pool!

[-] Vacuum cleaners do great things for pools as far as keeping the floors clean of small debris, they should be inspected for damage in and around the head of the vacuum.

[-] Every pool should have a skimmer basket, which are expected to catch larger floating objects. Don’t be too hasty to dive in before inspecting the contents for unwanted rodents or reptiles.

[-] It functions as a filter to help keep your water clean and although maintenance on your sand filter should be minimal, it is important to check for loss of sand, just in case it needs to be topped off.

[-] Verification of proper PH balance, not to mention good filtration and proper circulation are essential factors for maintaining healthy clean safe water in the pool. This also helps to keep a clear blue appearance.

[-] Equipment failure can take place at the most unlikely times, which is why regular checks on those seals for any pumps being used should be checked for efficiency. Remember to unplug any equipment using a source of power before attempting repairs.

[-] Pools are built in a variety of styles, shapes and materials, cracks, tears or other forms of damage to the side of your pool are possible. Catching these damages early and repairing them could save the pool owner a considerable amount of money in the long run.

[-] Even in warmer climates, the water temperature can drop low enough to require a heater. Check for desired settings and verify that the pool water temperature is keeping up with it.

[-] Check for algae build up on concrete walls, if necessary, use a steel brush to have it removed. The decks of the pool can be a dangerous area to walk and play, whether young or old. Proper cleaning and hosing off will help to reduce the build up of moss that can cause slippery surfaces.

[-] Check all filters for wear and tear, if necessary, change the ones that require changing as long term use of poor filtration systems can cause costly damage to your pool.

[-] Not every pool has them, however, if your pool has lights installed, turn them on and make sure that all bulbs are functioning properly. If on a timer, verify that it is set to go on and off at the right times.

[-] Scrutinize the pool for signs that it needs to be shocked, if the water is more cloudy than normal, has an unusually high smell of chlorine or the pool was recently subjected to high use, it may be time to think about shocking it.

[-] Verify that the level of water in the pool is not receding as this could be a sign of a leak.