After a long winter and spring of no use, outdoor pools need love and care before swimmers can dive in for the summer. In Troy, MO, The Pool Guys provide area homeowners with maintenance tips and high-quality pool repair and installation services to ensure everyone stays safe while in the water.

Here, the swimming pool contractors share four tips to get your water ready for summer:  

• Examine Equipment: Before you can jump in, you need to take the equipment for a test run. Call a pool maintenance specialist to make sure everything operates correctly. They will check the pressure gauge, flow meter, gas heater, and additional equipment.
• Check pH Levels: The chemical levels in pools need to be checked regularly to measure acidity and alkalinity levels. After you fill the pool with water for the season, perform this test. Ideally, the pH level should range between 7.2 and 7.8; this means it is safe for swimmers. To check the levels, place a test strip in the water. It will change colors to indicate the chemical balance. 
• Clean the Filter: Regardless of whether you have a diatomaceous earth, cartridge, or sand filter, they all require routine cleaning to function properly. Before you fill the pool with water, remove debris from the filter. Make sure to leave a bit of dirt, as it helps trap additional particles in the system. 
• Brush Tile Walls: After months sitting unused, algae might have formed on the tile walls of your pool. To remove the organism, use a gentle cleaning solution and a soft-bristle brush. The supplies will remove gunk without damaging the tile or grout. 

If you plan to spend the summer wading in the water, call (636) 462-7665 for pool installation or repair. Visit The Pool Guys online to see pictures of finished projects, and like them on Facebook for updated news and announcements.