Proper Care and Maintenance of Pools With Above Ground Pool Liners

Above ground pool liners are more sensitive to proper pool water balance issues. It is important to establish a regular routine for testing and properly maintaining the balance of pool water chemicals. You should regularly clean the swimming pool by skimming out any leaves, debris or foreign objects, and empty the skimmer basket. You should insure that the pool equipment is in good working order in order to properly filter the pool water.

 

Maintaining Correct Pool Water Balance

Because vinyl swimming pool liners are less forgiving with mistakes in balancing the pool water chemistry, it is important to be diligent about regular chemical testing and adjusting the water chemistry. PoolStore.com sells several test strips and kits to help you maintain proper water balance in your aboveground pool. The recommended chemical levels for balanced water in vinyl liner swimming pools are as follows:

pH:                                    7.2 - 7.6 ppm
Total Alkalinity:                80 - 150 ppm
Calcium Hardness:           150 - 300 ppm
Free Chlorine:                   1 - 4 ppm
Cyanuric Acid:                  30 - 80

 

Use Pool Equipment Designed for Vinyl Liner Above Ground Swimming Pools

Vinyl pool liners can be very durable, but since they could rip and tear if not cared for properly, be sure to use cleaning equipment that is meant for vinyl liners. Brushes, vacuum heads, and automatic pool cleaners all come in models that have been specifically designed for use with vinyl liner pools. When purchasing such pool equipment, be specific about getting the equipment that is made for vinyl pool liners. Some of our competitors may try to sell you undersized pumps and filters with your above ground swimming pool package in order to give you a better deal, but such equipment will not effectively filter your pool water. If you have any questions about upgrading your pool pump and filter please call us at 1-800-918-POOL.

 

Maintain the Water Line

Routinely wipe down the water line to avoid build up of dirt and grime on the pool liner which can cause staining and discoloration. Check with the liner manufacturer for the proper tools to use when wiping the water line, but don't use anything abrasive. In general a soft sponge is recommended. Also, don't be overly aggressive when wiping the liner. In some cases, a special cleaner might need to be used. Again, check with the vinyl liner manufacturer for recommendations on the proper vinyl liner cleaning chemicals.

 

Never Completely Drain a Liner Pool

Unless you are replacing the pool liner, avoid draining a vinyl liner pool unless absolutely necessary. You should consult the manufacturer for advice and instructions prior to draining. Removing the water pressure can shrink the vinyl liner and become unsightly and/or rip or tear the liner. It is recommended that if you must drain your above ground swimming pool, leave at least 1 foot or more of water in the bottom. If vinyl pool liners dry out, you will find that you have a liner that has become brittle and has shrunk.

 

Routine Brushing

Routine brushing will help keep dirt, algae, and excessive chlorine from clinging to the pool walls and fading or staining the swimming pool liner. It is recommended that you use a nylon type of brush which has soft bristles. Never use a stainless steel algae brush on a vinyl pool liner as it is likely to tear the liner.

Following these swimming pool liner care guidelines should help you to extend the life of your liner. If it is time to replace your aboveground pool liner check out our wide selection of liners. If you have any questions about liner care or aboveground pools, please call our pool care experts at 1-800-918-POOL (7665)



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