Maintaining a swimming pool requires consistent care to ensure it remains clean, safe, and enjoyable throughout the season. Whether you own an in-ground or above-ground pool, the weekly routine plays a crucial role in preserving water quality and equipment efficiency. But the question often remains: What should I put in my pool weekly to keep it in top condition? This article dives deep into the essential chemicals, tasks, and practices that every pool owner should prioritize each week.
Why Weekly Pool Maintenance Matters
Preventing Algae and Bacteria Growth
A pool without regular attention becomes a breeding ground for algae and harmful bacteria. Weekly maintenance ensures that contaminants are neutralized before they can multiply and cause health risks or aesthetic issues, such as green or murky water.
Extending the Lifespan of Pool Equipment
Regular chemical balance and cleaning reduce strain on filters, pumps, and heaters. Weekly care helps prevent costly repairs and ensures your pool runs efficiently all year.
Maintaining Water Balance
Unbalanced water can be corrosive to metal components or cause scaling on pool surfaces and equipment. Weekly testing and adjustment are key to maintaining the proper balance.
Pool Chemicals to Add Weekly
Chlorine: The Primary Sanitizer
Chlorine is essential for killing bacteria, viruses, and algae. There are several forms of chlorine available:
- Chlorine tablets – Ideal for slow dissolving and steady release.
- Granular chlorine – Used for quick-dissolving applications and shocking.
- Chlorine liquid (sodium hypochlorite) – Commonly found in household bleach and used for regular chlorination.
The recommended level for chlorine is between 1–3 ppm (parts per million). Test levels weekly to ensure they remain within this range.
pH Adjusters: Maintaining the Right Balance
The pH level affects chlorine’s efficiency and swimmer comfort. Weekly adjustments are necessary to keep it in the ideal range of 7.2 to 7.6.
- pH increasers (sodium carbonate) – Raise low pH levels.
- pH decreasers (sodium bisulfate or muriatic acid) – Lower high pH levels.
Alkalinity Increaser
Total alkalinity acts as a buffer for pH levels. Keeping it within 80–120 ppm ensures pH remains stable. A weekly test and adjustment will prevent wild pH fluctuations.
Calcium Hardness Increaser
Calcium hardness should be maintained between 200–400 ppm to prevent corrosion or scaling. Use calcium chloride weekly if levels fall below this range.
Pool Algaecide (Optional but Recommended)
Though not a weekly necessity for every pool, adding algaecide once a week provides an extra line of defense against algae, especially in warm, humid climates or pools with reduced circulation.
Weekly Testing: The Foundation of Pool Maintenance
Use a Reliable Test Kit or Strips
Pool testing kits come in two forms: liquid test kits and test strips. Liquid test kits are more accurate, especially for detailed readings of chlorine levels, pH, alkalinity, and calcium.
Test for Chlorine, pH, Total Alkalinity, and Calcium Hardness
Create a weekly checklist that includes the following parameters:
| Parameter | Desired Range |
|---|---|
| Free Chlorine | 1–3 ppm |
| pH | 7.2–7.6 |
| Total Alkalinity | 80–120 ppm |
| Calcium Hardness | 200–400 ppm |
| Cyanuric Acid (Stabilizer) | 30–50 ppm |
Record Results for Better Analysis
Keeping a log of your weekly test results helps identify trends and allows you to anticipate when adjustments are needed rather than reacting after imbalances occur.
Weekly Maintenance Tasks Beyond Chemicals
Skimming and Debris Removal
Leaves, dirt, insects, and other debris should be removed from the surface and corners of your pool. Use a skimmer net to clear floating debris and a pool brush to scrub walls and steps.
Vacuuming
Even if your pool has an automatic cleaner, spot-checking by manually vacuuming each week ensures you capture settled debris that may be missed by automated systems.
Cleaning the Skimmer and Pump Baskets
Daily cleaning is ideal, but a thorough weekly clean of baskets will prevent clogs and ensure maximum water flow through the system.
Backwashing or Cleaning the Filter
This depends on the type of filter:
- Sand filters – Backwash when the pressure gauge rises 8–10 psi above the clean running pressure.
- Cartridge filters – Clean monthly with a hose, deeper clean annually.
- DE (Diatomaceous Earth) filters – Backwash and recharge with DE powder each time.
Do this as needed, but at least once a week if you’re in a high-debris area.
Inspect Equipment and Water Levels
Ensure the pump and heater are functioning properly. Check water levels — the pool should have the water halfway up the skimmer opening. Too high or too low affects circulation and filter performance.
Your Weekly Pool Maintenance Checklist
To simplify your routine, print or digitalize this checklist:
- Test all chemical levels (chlorine, pH, alkalinity, calcium, CYA)
- Adjust chemical levels as needed
- Add chlorine tablets or liquid
- Skim surface debris
- Vacuum pool floor
- Brush pool walls and steps
- Clean skimmer and pump baskets
- Backwash or clean filter if needed
- Check for pool cracks, leaks, or damaged tiles
How to Troubleshoot Common Weekly Challenges
Pool Turns Green Overnight
This usually indicates an algae bloom. This can stem from a drop in chlorine levels or an imbalance in pH or CYA. To fix:
- Shock the pool
- Run the pump continuously for 24 hours
- Brush the walls
- Algaecide application
pH Level Keeps Rising
High pH can come from new fill water or excessive chlorine use. Try reducing chlorine tabs and use muriatic acid to lower pH.
Chlorine Is Always Low
Frequent bather load, heavy sunlight, or high CYA levels can cause chlorine depletion. Maintain stabilizer levels and adjust chlorine dosing accordingly.
Cloudy Water
First, test chemicals. Next, it may indicate filtration issues, poor circulation, or organic contaminants. Inspect your filter and backwash if required.
Additional Considerations: Weather and Usage
Heavy Rain or Hot Weather
Rain can dilute chemicals and alter pH. After a heavy storm, test and rebalance. Conversely, hot weather increases evaporation and chlorine breakdown, so expect higher consumption of chemicals.
High Usage Days
Parties, swimming lessons, or hosting multiple swimmers increase contamination. Consider boosting chlorine levels, increasing filtration time, and post-use shock treatment.
Chemical Mixing and Storage
Never mix pool chemicals together. Doing so can create toxic gases or cause combustion. Store all chemicals in dry, cool, and well-ventilated areas, away from direct sunlight and incompatible substances.
Best Products for Weekly Pool Maintenance
Recommended Chlorine Tablets and Alternatives
- Clorox Pool&Spa Tablets: Long-lasting chlorine tablets with stabilizer.
- BioGuard Burn Out: Non-chlorine shock for sensitive skin and quick re-entry.
Top pH and Alkalinity Adjusters
- Robarb pH Increaser: Reliable and effective sodium carbonate.
- Hayward pH Minus: Great for pools needing minor adjustments.
Testing Kits and Tools
- Futura Test Kit: High-accuracy test with detailed reagents.
- Lamotte ColorQ Pro 11: Digital strip-based reading ideal for beginners.
Conclusion: Keep Your Pool Healthy and Ready Every Week
Maintaining your pool weekly ensures a safe and enjoyable environment for every swimmer. By incorporating regular chemical additions, thorough water testing, and consistent cleaning, you can extend the life of your pool equipment and keep problems at bay. While this guide provides a detailed overview, staying observant and proactive in your maintenance routine will yield the best results.
Weekly pool care doesn’t have to be tedious — with checklists, quality chemicals, and informed routines, you’ll always enjoy a sparkling clean pool. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional if imbalances persist or if you’re new to treating your own pool.
Remember: What should I put in my pool weekly? is not just about chlorine alone — it’s about a complete system of checks, balances, and care. Implement these strategies now and enjoy a more trouble-free swim season than ever before.
Get Started Today and Stay Ahead of the Curve
Regular weekly pool maintenance isn’t just about adding chemicals; it’s about proactive care that keeps your pool looking great, functioning efficiently, and lasting longer. Use the advice in this article to create your personalized weekly schedule and ensure each swim becomes the highlight of your day.
What chemicals should I add to my pool weekly?
To maintain safe and clear water, you should test and adjust the levels of several key chemicals each week. Chlorine or another sanitizer is essential to kill bacteria and algae. The ideal chlorine level is between 1 and 3 parts per million (ppm). Additionally, test and maintain your pH level between 7.4 and 7.6 to ensure swimmer comfort and effective chlorine performance. Total alkalinity should be kept between 80 and 120 ppm to stabilize the pH, and calcium hardness should stay in the range of 200 to 400 ppm to protect your pool surfaces and equipment.
Other chemicals you might need to add weekly include cyanuric acid (stabilizer), which helps protect chlorine from being broken down by sunlight, with an optimal range of 30 to 50 ppm. If your pool uses a non-chlorine sanitizer like bromine, or if you’re using a saltwater system, slightly different balance levels may apply. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific system. Weekly chemical adjustments help maintain water balance and prevent costly damage or swimmer discomfort.
How often should I test my pool water?
Testing your pool water should be done at least once a week, especially during periods of heavy use or hot weather when chemical levels can fluctuate more quickly. Use a reliable test kit or test strips to measure sanitizer levels, pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness, and stabilizer. Regular testing helps identify imbalances early, allowing for timely corrections and preventing potential problems like algae blooms, cloudy water, or irritated skin and eyes.
In addition to weekly testing, it’s a good idea to bring a water sample to a professional pool store every few weeks for a more accurate analysis. This can detect problems that home test kits may miss, particularly with trace elements or more complex water balance factors. Consistent testing, whether at home or professionally, ensures a safer and more enjoyable swimming experience while prolonging the life of your pool equipment and surfaces.
Why is it important to clean the pool filter weekly?
Your pool filter is one of the most critical components of your maintenance routine, working to remove debris, contaminants, and microscopic particles from the water. If the filter becomes clogged or dirty, it can’t perform effectively, leading to cloudy or unclean water and putting additional strain on your pool pump. Cleaning your filter weekly—or as recommended by the manufacturer—helps preserve the efficiency of your filtration system and ensures the water remains clean and healthy for swimming.
Different types of filters (sand, cartridge, or diatomaceous earth) require different cleaning processes. Sand filters may just need a backwash, while cartridge filters may require soaking and scrubbing. DE filters typically require backwashing and a periodic deep cleaning. Never skip filter maintenance even if the filter doesn’t appear dirty—performance can degrade over time without noticeable visual changes. Weekly cleaning helps extend the life of your filter and reduces long-term maintenance costs.
Should I shock my pool every week?
Yes, shocking your pool weekly is considered a best practice for maintaining clean and safe swimming conditions. Pool shock is a high dose of chlorine or non-chlorine oxidizer that eliminates accumulated contaminants like sweat, lotions, and other organic materials that standard sanitizer levels can’t fully remove. Regular shocking helps break down these compounds, destroys algae spores, and restores clarity to the water—especially important after heavy use or rain.
The best time to shock is in the evening, after swimming has concluded, to allow the chemicals to work overnight without being broken down by sunlight. After shocking, run your filter for several hours to circulate the shock through the system. Depending on your pool’s size and usage, you may need to adjust the frequency or dosage, particularly after parties or heavy rainfalls. Even if your water looks clear, weekly shocking is a proactive step that prevents issues before they become visible.
What pool equipment should I inspect weekly?
Regular weekly inspections of pool equipment are vital to maintaining system efficiency and prolonging equipment lifespan. Start with your pump and filter—check for leaks, unusual noises, or pressure gauge irregularities. Inspect the skimmer basket and pump basket to ensure they’re clean and free of debris. These components are essential for proper water circulation, so any blockage or malfunction can affect cleaning performance and increase energy consumption.
Also inspect your pool heater (if applicable), automatic cleaner, saltwater chlorine generator (if applicable), and any timers or controllers. Ensure all pool equipment is free from dust, leaves, or dirt that may interfere with operation. Finally, examine safety equipment such as pool lights (for cracks or moisture intrusion), handrails, and ladders to ensure they are secure and in good working condition. Proactively checking equipment helps prevent breakdowns and costly repairs over time.
How important is it to skim and brush the pool weekly?
Skimming and brushing are fundamental tasks in maintaining a clean and visually appealing pool. Skimming the surface of the water weekly (or more often, as needed) removes leaves, insects, and other debris that can break down and cloud the water or clog your filter. Brushing the walls, steps, and floor of your pool helps dislodge algae and prevents buildup in areas that chemicals might not easily reach, especially in corners and crevices where circulation is weaker.
Using the right brushes for your pool surface is essential—soft brushes for vinyl or fiberglass pools and stiffer brushes for concrete or plaster surfaces. Regular brushing complements chemical treatments and filtration, boosting overall efficiency by preventing algae from anchoring and spreading. Together, skimming and brushing create a proactive routine that prevents future cleaning issues and keeps your pool inviting and ready for use.
Do I need to vacuum my pool every week?
Yes, vacuuming your pool weekly is recommended to remove dirt, debris, and fine particles that your filtration system might not fully capture. Even though skimming and brushing help, vacuuming ensures that particles settled on the bottom of the pool are removed, preventing staining and turbidity. Use either a manual vacuum or an automatic pool cleaner, and make sure the vacuum is compatible with your pool type—especially for vinyl or fiberglass pools that are more sensitive to abrasion.
Before vacuuming, check that your filter is clean and functioning properly to collect the debris being lifted from the pool floor. Vacuum slowly and carefully to avoid stirring up silt or sand from the bottom. If your pool tends to accumulate a lot of fine debris or algae, consider vacuuming more than once a week or using a vacuumspecifically designed for fine particulates. Regular vacuuming contributes significantly to water clarity and overall pool hygiene, especially in areas with high dust exposure or tree cover.