Saunas - Traditional vs Infrared

Swimming Pool Liner Care

A liner pool should be kept full at all times. If the pool is emptied, the liner may move out of position or be damaged and then the liner would have to be repaired. Leaves or other debris should not be allowed to lie on the pool floor for any length of time as this may stain the liner.

When adding your pool chemicals always make sure that the circulation pumps is kept running to thoroughly disperse the chemicals. The time needed to totally disperse varies on a number of things i.e. pool size/water volume and size of equipment. It is necessary to circulate the entire volume of pool water through the pump at least once. Always read the dosing instructions on chemical packs. Never exceed the stated dose or mix chemicals together. Add one at a time directly into the pool water. Always add chemicals to water – not water to chemicals. Dilute or completely dissolve all chemicals in a bucket of water prior to adding to the pool.

Most pool chemicals are heavier than water and if they are not dispersed, simply sink to the bottom of the pool and lie against the liner in concentrated form. This will inevitably damage the liner. Bleach, stain or burn it.

Never use your hand to stir chemical solution. We do not recommend that you put chlorine tablets or sticks into the skimmer as bleaching of the liner may occur when the filter pump is turned off. Never scatter dry chlorine directly onto the surface of the pool water. Doing so will result in bleach spots on the floor. Treat all chemicals with respect – fire and explosion or release of dangerous gas can result without warning if handled improperly. All chemical containers should be tightly sealed when in storage. Store all your chemicals in a dry, safe and secure location by type. Make sure they are away from children and animals and under lock and key.

We recommend that liquid chlorine is only added to liner pools by a professional pool engineer.
Scum dirt lines should be cleaned off on a regular basis using a liner and tile band cleaner. Do not use abrasive materials to clean the scum line as these will remove the pattern of printed liners and roughen the surface of plain liners. We do not recommend the use of acid based cleaners as these will discolour the pool liner.

Do not allow the pH level of the pool water to drop below 7.2 as this will have a damaging effect on the liner. If the pool water pH level rises above 7.8 then the water is too alkaline and calcium on the liner surface will occur. An ideal pH level for the liner is between 7.4 and 7.6. Your water test kit will show a free chlorine residual level or the amount of chlorine available to kill bacteria in the water. Your free chlorine residual level should be between 1.5 and 2.5ppm (parts per million). If free chlorine drifts below 1.5ppm algae and bacteria will grow more easily and may cause liner staining. If the level is consistently above 3.0ppm excessive moisture absorption will take place and wrinkling of the liner may occur.

All PVC pools must be routinely stabilised with cyanuric acid in a range between 30 and 70ppm. A level of less than 30 ppm combined with a pH level of less than 7.0 and/or a chlorine higher than 3.0 ppm can cause the liner to form wrinkles. Do not use large single doses of hydrochloric acid for pH or total alkalinity adjustment. If it is not blended sufficiently with the pool water it may chemically attach the liner’s print pattern. Ask your pool dealer for the recommended procedure for total alkalinity adjustment.

Providing that the water chemicals are maintained correctly within the pool, the liner will give good service at water temperatures of up to 85°F (30°C).

At temperatures in excess of 85°F (30°C) the life expectance of the liner can reduce progressively from the normal 7-10 year life down to as little as three years. However, experience shows that provided the chemical balance of the water is maintained correctly and consistently, then the liner will perform satisfactorily at temperatures well in excess of 85°F (30°C). As with all things, the greater the care, the longer the life.

All cleaning equipment used in the pool such as brushes, vacuum heads and automatic cleaners must be specifically designed for a liner pool. Use care when brushing the liner. Ensure the pool brush and pole does not have any sharp edges that could tear the pool liner.

Note: Automatic pool cleaners that remain trapped in one position can damage the pool liner – never leave them unattended for long periods.

When winterising the pool, always ensure that all debris is removed from the pool water and that any chemicals added are thoroughly dispersed.

At the end of the pool season:

• Adjust the water level to the dealer’s recommended level.
• Test the pool water and correct the water balance.
• NEVER close a pool without circulating the pool water for several hours after the final additional of chemicals – chlorine may settle in the deep end and bleach the liner if not allowed to disperse in the water properly.
• Clean and vacuum the pool.
• Use a well fitting winter debris cover, tightly sealed around the perimeter of the pool.
• Checking periodically throughout the winter that the anchoring springs are tight and the cover kept taught - This will prevent the accumulation of debris such as leaves and insects entering during the winter.
• Should you have any problems with your pool, call your dealer – he is your pool professional.

And remember, that proper chemical balance, regular maintenance and common sense are the keys to years of enjoyment from your swimming pool.