The joy of owning a pool comes with the responsibility of maintaining it. One integral part of pool maintenance, often overlooked, is maintaining the correct water level.
A fluctuating water level is a common occurrence in pools, but the frequency of adding water varies for different reasons. Ideally, you should check the water level every week, and top it up whenever it falls below half the height of your pool skimmer.
Keeping your pool’s water level in check is crucial not just for the fun and safety of swimmers, but also for the longevity of your pool equipment. It’s not just about adding water, but knowing when and why to do so.
Why Water Levels Drop
Evaporation: A Natural Process
Water evaporation is an inescapable process, primarily influenced by sunlight, temperature, humidity, and wind. In warmer climates or during summer months, your pool may lose 2-4 inches of water per week due to evaporation alone.
Pool Use and Splash Out
The more frequently your pool is used, the higher the chances of water splashing out. Pool parties, energetic children, or simple day-to-day swimming can all lead to a significant drop in the water level over time.
Leakage Issues
If your pool’s water level decreases drastically in a short time, it might signal a leakage problem. In such cases, professional inspection is advisable to diagnose and rectify the issue.
Impact of Low Water Levels
Potential Damage to Pool
Maintaining an optimal water level is a critical part of pool care. A significantly reduced water level not only affects the functionality of the pool but also has a potential for structural damage. Pools are constructed to withstand the pressure of a certain volume of water. When water levels fall below this volume, the sudden change in pressure can lead to structural imbalances, resulting in potential cracks, leaks, or even complete collapse in severe cases. Therefore, a consistent water level not only ensures the pool’s functionality but also maintains its structural integrity.
Impacts on Pump and Filtration
The health of your pool’s pump and filtration system is directly related to the water level in the pool. These systems are designed and calibrated to work at a specific water level. When the water level falls below this point, the pump may start drawing in air instead of water. This could lead to a host of problems such as loss of prime, decreased filtration efficiency, and strain on the pump, leading to premature wear and tear, reduced lifespan, and possible malfunction of these vital pool components.
Water Quality Concerns
A proper water level is crucial for maintaining the quality of water in your pool. A reduced water volume implies a higher concentration of chemicals, which can disrupt the pool’s pH balance. This imbalance can result in cloudy water, bacterial and algal growth, and could potentially cause skin and eye irritations for swimmers. Regularly monitoring and adjusting the water level helps to dilute chemicals and maintain a balanced, safe swimming environment.
Ideal Water Level for Pools
What Experts Recommend
There’s a common consensus among pool professionals that the water level in a swimming pool should be maintained at approximately the midpoint of the skimmer opening. This level allows the skimmer to work most effectively, drawing in debris from the surface of the water, and ensuring that your pool remains clean and well-maintained.
Factors Affecting Ideal Level
Many factors influence the perfect water level for your pool. The design and size of your pool, the local climate, the amount and type of usage, and the type and performance of your pool equipment all play a part. Therefore, it’s important to take into account these variables and adjust your pool maintenance strategy accordingly.
Special Pool Types Consideration
Specialty pools like saltwater pools, infinity pools, or pools with automatic covers may require different water level considerations due to their unique features and functions. In such cases, it’s recommended to consult with your pool builder or a pool maintenance professional to understand the specific needs of your pool and adjust maintenance practices accordingly.
Determining Your Pool’s Water Level
Physical Inspection Tips
Visual inspection is often the simplest and most straightforward way to monitor the water level in your pool. A quick daily check can help you spot any significant changes and take action promptly. When inspecting, use the water line against the skimmer opening or your pool’s tile line as a reference point.
Using Water Level Indicators
Some pool skimmers come with built-in water level indicators, which can provide a more precise measure of the water level. These tools allow for consistent monitoring and can help you maintain the optimal water level with greater accuracy.
Employing Digital Tools
In today’s digital age, there are advanced tools and gadgets that make pool maintenance tasks more effortless. Digital water level monitors can provide real-time tracking of your pool’s water level. Some devices can even send alerts to your smartphone when the water level drops below the preset point, allowing you to take action immediately, even when you’re away from home.
When to Add Water to Pool
Seasonal Changes: Effects
The frequency of adding water to your pool often increases during hotter months. Higher temperatures lead to a greater rate of water evaporation. Therefore, if you live in a warm climate or during summer months, expect to add water more frequently.
High Usage Periods
During periods of high usage, such as during a party or holidays, water levels can decrease due to increased splash out. Following such high activity periods, you should check and adjust the water levels accordingly.
Post Cleaning and Maintenance
Pool cleaning and maintenance tasks can also affect the water level in your pool. After backwashing the filter, cleaning the pool, or carrying out other maintenance tasks, you might notice a drop in the water level. In such cases, adding water to restore the optimal level is necessary.
How to Add Water
Basic Procedure
The simplest method to add water to your pool is by using a standard garden hose. Make sure the water source is clean and free from contaminants to avoid introducing impurities into your pool. Always monitor the water-filling process to avoid overfilling the pool, which can lead to its own set of problems.
Safety Precautions
While adding water, make sure that no one is in the pool. Besides being a potential distraction, this can lead to inaccurate readings of the water level. It’s also essential to ensure that electrical appliances, including the pool’s pump and heating systems, are kept away from the water source to avoid potential electric shocks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake pool owners make is overfilling the pool. An overfilled pool can cause poor skimmer operation, chemical imbalance, and potential damage to the pool structure or surrounding area. Another common mistake is ignoring the pH balance of the water after adding fresh water. Regular testing and adjustment of your pool’s chemical balance are crucial in maintaining a safe and clean swimming environment.
Automatic Water Levelers: An Overview
What Are They?
Automatic water levelers are modern devices designed to automate the task of maintaining your pool’s water level. They work by sensing when the water level drops below a certain point and adding water until the preset level is reached. This removes the need for manual intervention, making the process more convenient and precise.
Benefits and Drawbacks
Automatic water levelers provide convenience and precision but come at an additional cost. They also require professional installation and maintenance.
Installation and Cost
Installing an automatic water leveler involves plumbing and electrical work. The cost depends on the device quality, installation complexity, and pool type.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I slow down evaporation in my pool?
Covering your pool when not in use, especially at night, can significantly reduce evaporation. Landscaping with windbreaks or shade trees can also help.
Why is my pool losing more water than usual?
If your pool is losing water more rapidly than usual, it might be due to leaks, increased usage, or extreme weather conditions. A professional inspection may be necessary.
Is it okay to overfill my pool?
Overfilling a pool can lead to poor skimmer operation, an imbalance in chemicals, and potential damage to the pool structure or surrounding area.
Conclusion
Maintaining the correct water level in your pool is a critical yet often overlooked aspect of pool maintenance. Regular checks and timely top-ups can keep your pool fun, safe, and durable.
While factors such as weather, pool usage, and leaks can lead to water level fluctuations, it’s essential to understand and respond to these changes appropriately.
Lastly, innovations like automatic water levelers are making pool maintenance easier and more efficient than ever. However, no device can replace an informed and attentive pool owner in ensuring a sparkling clean and well-functioning pool.