Owning a pool is a luxury that comes with its fair share of responsibilities. At Pools Out Back, we know how rewarding it is to step into crystal-clear water on a warm Amarillo afternoon—but we also know that maintaining that sparkle requires consistent care. Whether you’re new to pool ownership or looking to fine-tune your routine, these top pool maintenance tips and tricks will help you enjoy your investment all year long.
1. Keep Up with Regular Cleaning
This may sound obvious, but regular cleaning is the foundation of easy pool maintenance. Skim the surface of your pool several times a week to remove leaves, bugs, and debris before they sink and cause more significant issues.
Vacuum the pool floor weekly and brush the walls to prevent algae growth and keep your pool looking fresh. This small effort goes a long way in preventing larger, expensive problems down the road.
2. Monitor Water Levels
Amarillo’s dry and windy climate can cause your pool’s water level to fluctuate more than you might expect. If the water gets too low, your pump may run dry and become damaged. If it’s too high, your skimmer may not function properly.
Try to keep the water level at about the midpoint of your skimmer opening and top it off as needed, especially after heavy use or storms.
3. Test and Balance Chemicals Regularly
Keeping your pool water chemically balanced isn’t just about comfort—it’s about safety and longevity. Improper chemical levels can lead to skin irritation, corrosion of equipment, and cloudy water. Aim to test your pool water at least once a week and adjust chlorine, pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels accordingly. This is one of the most essential pool maintenance tips to ensure your water stays clean and safe.
If you’re unsure how to get the right chemical balance, Pools Out Back offers free water testing.
4. Clean the Filter on a Schedule
Your pool filter works hard to remove impurities from the water, and it needs regular care to function efficiently. Depending on your setup (cartridge, sand, or DE filter), follow manufacturer guidelines for cleaning frequency.
As a general rule of thumb, check and clean your filter every 4–6 weeks. A clean filter goes a long way in supporting your overall pool care year-round.
5. Prioritize Circulation
Good circulation is critical for clean, healthy water. Make sure your pool pump runs long enough each day—typically 8–12 hours—to keep water moving and filtered. If your water seems cloudy or your chemicals aren’t holding, it could be due to poor circulation. Keep an eye on your pump and consider upgrading if it’s not performing well.
6. Prep Your Pool for Winter
Winter in Amarillo can be unpredictable, so it’s important to properly prepare your pool before freezing temperatures. Before winter hits, lower the water level, clean the pool thoroughly, and cover it securely. Proper pool winterization protects your equipment and makes spring reopening much easier.
7. Schedule Seasonal Checkups
Even with the best DIY care, there are times when it’s worth calling in a professional. A seasonal inspection can catch small issues before they become costly repairs. At Pools Out Back, we’re happy to offer advice or perform a full system check during spring startup or fall shutdown.
Enjoy a Sparkling Pool Without the Stress
Maintaining a clean, healthy pool doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a regular routine, the right equipment, and expert help when needed, your pool can stay sparkling clean and swim-ready all year long.
If you’re looking for more clean pool tips or considering installing a new inground pool, we’re here to help. Pools Out Back offers expert installation and free estimates for Amarillo homeowners. Whether you need advice on easy pool maintenance tips or you’re ready to build your backyard oasis, contact us today or stop by—we’d love to hear from you.
