There’s nothing like the feeling of stepping into your very own pool for the first time. Clear water, shimmering tile, and a perfect escape just steps from your back door. But as every new pool owner learns, that dreamy water doesn’t stay sparkling on its own.
Owning a pool comes with a little bit of homework, but don’t worry, Republic Pools is here to walk you through the basics, and our sister company, Pool Service Pros, is ready to take the wheel if you’d rather spend more time swimming than skimming.
Get to Know Your Pool
Every pool is a little different depending on its design, features, and system setup. Your equipment pad is the heart of the operation. The pump, filter, skimmer, and sometimes a heater or salt system. Make a habit of inspecting your equipment weekly to ensure everything is running smoothly.
Water Chemistry Basics
Balancing your pool water is one of the most important aspects of maintenance. When done right, it helps prevent algae, protects your plaster and tile, and makes swimming safe and comfortable.
Here are the big four:
- pH: Should stay between 7.2 – 7.6
- Chlorine: 1 – 3 ppm to sanitize properly
- Alkalinity: 80 – 120 ppm helps stabilize pH
- Calcium Hardness: 200 – 400 ppm to protect surfaces
Test your water at least once a week, and more often during hot Texas summers.
Don’t Want to Mess With Chemicals?
Totally fair. Our sister company, Pool Service Pros, specializes in routine maintenance and chemical balance. They’re local, reliable, and know exactly how to keep your water safe so you can relax.
Skim, Brush, and Vacuum
Skimming your pool daily removes leaves and bugs before they sink and cause issues. Brushing walls and steps weekly prevents algae buildup, and vacuuming helps remove dirt and debris that your filter doesn’t catch.
This is your chance to give your pool some TLC – and spot any potential issues before they become major problems.
Clean and Replace Your Filter Media on the Right Schedule
Your pool filter is one of the most important components of your circulation system. Whether your pool uses a cartridge, sand, or DE (diatomaceous earth) filter, regular cleaning and timely media replacement are essential for water clarity, equipment longevity, and proper flow.
Each filter type has different maintenance and replacement expectations:
Cartridge filters should be cleaned every 2–6 weeks, depending on pool usage, debris, and seasonal conditions.
Over time, cartridges wear down even with proper cleaning. Most cartridges need to be replaced every 1–2 years, typically when:
- The pleated bands begin to fail or separate
- The cartridge no longer comes clean
- Pressure remains high even after cleaning
Running a worn cartridge can restrict flow and strain your pump.
Sand filters require backwashing every 1–2 weeks to flush out trapped debris and restore proper flow.
While sand is durable, it does not last forever. Standard sand media should be replaced every 3–5 years, as the sand particles eventually become smooth and less effective at trapping contaminants.
If your system uses glass media, replacement intervals are longer—often 8 years or more—thanks to improved filtration efficiency and durability.
DE filters provide the finest level of filtration and should be backwashed about once a month, followed by adding fresh DE powder.
The internal DE grids themselves typically last 3–7 years, depending on:
- Water chemistry balance
- Cleaning methods
- Overall system maintenance
Grids may need replacement if they tear, crack, or no longer hold DE properly.
Professional Maintenance Makes a Difference
Keeping up with cleaning schedules is only part of the equation—knowing when media has reached the end of its lifespan is just as important. Professional maintenance companies often include filter cleaning, inspections, and media evaluations as part of their service plans.
That’s one reason many Republic Pools owners trust Pool Service Pros to maintain their pools. Their team understands how proper filtration impacts water quality, equipment performance, and long-term warranty protection.
Monitor Water Levels
Keep your pool water halfway up the skimmer opening, or about half-way up the waterline tile. Too low and your pump may run dry. Too high and skimming efficiency drops. Heavy rain or evaporation can throw things off, so check after storms or during long dry spells.
Keep an Eye on Wear and Tear
Pool ownership is long-term, and eventually, things like tile, plaster, or equipment may need attention. If you notice cracks, stains, or unusual noises from your system, don’t wait to ask for help. Republic Pools also offers remodels and rebuilds if your pool needs a refresh down the line.
Whether you’re a hands-on DIYer or someone who just wants to swim and relax, keeping your pool beautiful and safe is completely doable.
But if you ever want a break from the buckets of chlorine or Sunday skimming sessions, Pool Service Pros is just a call away. Their team of chemical balance experts and pool pros will take care of everything so you don’t have to.
Questions about maintaining your Republic Pool?
We’re always happy to help. And if you’re ready to hand over the test kit and focus on the fun, give Pool Service Pros a call.
