Taking care of a custom pool in Northwest Arkansas can be a lot of fun, but it also means staying on top of regular maintenance. Some people are just getting started with a brand-new pool, while others have been maintaining one for years. Either way, maintaining a clean and safe environment requires steady effort. The good news is you don’t have to be an expert to do it right; you just need to avoid a few common mistakes.
In fact, over half of pool owners (54%) report cleaning their pool only weekly, and 24.6% clean only daily, suggesting many don’t tackle debris until issues arise, increasing the risk of messy problems later From skipping cleanings to forgetting to check water levels, these seemingly minor mistakes can turn into costly issues if left unaddressed.
1. Skipping Regular Cleaning
Failing to clean your pool regularly is one of the most common mistakes. Leaves, bugs, and dirt can quickly build up and cause cloudy water, clogged filters, or algae growth. It may seem harmless at first, but the longer debris remains in your pool, the more likely it is to impact your water quality and equipment.
What to do: Skim the surface, brush the walls, and vacuum the bottom at least once a week. If you’re too busy or unsure about how to do it correctly, consider hiring a professional pool cleaning service to handle these tasks for you.
2. Not Testing the Water Often Enough
Your pool might look clean, but the water chemistry could be way off. Many pool owners only test their water when something smells or looks wrong, but that’s already too late. Water that’s not balanced can lead to skin irritation, cloudy water, and even damage to your pool finish or equipment.
What to do: Test your water at least once a week using a reliable test kit. Keeping your custom pool water balanced helps protect the surfaces and makes swimming more enjoyable.
3. Using the Wrong Amount of Chemicals
Adding too much or too little chlorine or other products can lead to problems. Too little, and bacteria can grow. Too much, and it can irritate your skin or damage pool parts. This is especially important with custom pools, which may have different finishes or systems that react to chemicals in specific ways.
What to do: Always follow label instructions and double-check amounts before adding anything to the water. If you’re not sure, a pool maintenance company in Northwest Arkansas can handle chemical balancing for you.
4. Not Running the Pump Long Enough
Running your pump only when you’re swimming is a big mistake. The pump is what keeps your water moving and filtered. Without it, your pool becomes still and dirty very quickly.
What to do: Run the pump at least 8 hours a day, especially during warmer months. If you have a larger pool or one with additional features, such as a water feature or spa, you may need to run it even longer.
5. Forgetting to Clean the Filter
Your filter does most of the hard work in keeping the water clean. But when it gets dirty or clogged, your pool suffers. Poor water circulation, cloudy water, and pressure buildup are all signs your filter needs attention.
To maintain optimal performance, clean your filter every few weeks and replace it as recommended
6. Not Shocking the Pool Regularly
Shocking your pool helps kill bacteria, especially after heavy use or exposure to poor weather conditions. If you never shock it, even if you use chlorine regularly, you’ll still risk cloudy water and strong odors.
What to do: Shock your pool once every 1 to 2 weeks, or after big pool parties and rainstorms. This keeps your water fresh and reduces the risk of algae.
7. Letting the Water Level Drop Too Low
Your pool water should be at least halfway up the skimmer opening. If it drops too low, your pump could start sucking air, which might cause severe damage.
What to do: After hot days or a week without rain, check your pool’s water level. Use a hose to refill if needed. On the other hand, excessive water can reduce skimming efficiency, so drain some off if there has been heavy rain.
8. Ignoring Small Repairs
A tiny leak or cracked tile may not seem like a significant issue, but over time, these problems can escalate into more serious issues. Many pool owners ignore these minor signs until it’s too late.
What to do: Don’t wait. Address minor issues promptly before they escalate into more expensive problems. A professional pool service can inspect your system and catch early signs of damage.
9. Using the Wrong Tools for Your Pool Type
Not all pools are the same. If your custom pool has a vinyl liner, it is best to avoid using a stiff brush designed for concrete. Using the wrong tool can wear down surfaces or cause tears and scratches.
What to do: Always use tools designed for your specific pool type. If you’re unsure about what’s right for your pool, consult a local pool expert or your installer.
10. Trying to Handle It All on Your Own
DIY is fine for basic tasks, but some pool problems require professional help. If you find yourself constantly guessing what’s wrong or spending more time cleaning than enjoying your pool, it might be time to get support.
What to do: A professional pool maintenance company in Northwest Arkansas can take the pressure off. They handle water testing, cleaning, chemical balancing, and seasonal care so you don’t have to.
11. Missing Seasonal Maintenance Steps
Each season brings different needs for your custom pool, especially in Northwest Arkansas, where the weather can shift quickly. Many pool owners fail to adjust their routine when seasons change, which can lead to problems such as algae in the spring or frozen pipes in the winter.
What to do: In spring, remove your pool cover, check for debris, and shock the water. During fall, clean your pool thoroughly and lower the water level before covering it. In winter, ensure that pipes are properly drained and equipment is protected from freezing. A professional pool service can handle these seasonal transitions for you and help prevent damage before it happens.
When to Call in the Experts
If your pool is often cloudy, you’re tired of managing chemicals, or you’re unsure where to start, it may be time to seek help. A professional pool service can save you hours of work and help prevent bigger issues down the road.
In Northwest Arkansas, BC Pools offers dependable pool maintenance services tailored to your specific setup. We handle regular cleaning, water balancing, equipment checks, and customized maintenance plans, whether you require assistance on a weekly or occasional basis.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How often should you clean a custom pool?
A custom pool should be cleaned at least once a week. This includes skimming the surface, brushing the walls, and vacuuming the bottom. Weekly cleaning helps prevent algae, clogged filters, and cloudy water, keeping the pool safe and inviting.
2. What happens if you don’t test the pool water regularly?
If you skip regular testing, your water may look clean but still be chemically unbalanced. This can cause skin or eye irritation, encourage algae growth, and damage your pool equipment over time. Weekly testing helps catch issues early.
3. How long should I run my pool pump each day?
Most pools need the pump to run 8 to 12 hours a day, especially during warmer months. This helps circulate water, filter out debris, and keep chemicals evenly distributed. Less runtime can lead to dirty, unbalanced water.
4. Do you really need to shock your pool?
Yes, shocking your pool is necessary to kill bacteria and clear out contaminants that regular chlorine might miss. It’s essential after heavy use, rain, or hot weather. Shocking once every 1–2 weeks helps maintain clean, clear water.
5. What is the biggest pool maintenance mistake homeowners make?
The biggest mistake is trying to handle everything alone without proper knowledge or tools. DIY care can lead to chemical imbalances or missed repairs. Many homeowners choose to work with a professional service to avoid costly issues later.
Make Pool Care Easier This Year
Pool maintenance doesn’t have to feel like a burden. Staying ahead of small tasks and avoiding common mistakes can keep your custom pool cleaner, safer, and more enjoyable throughout the year.
If you’re feeling unsure about part of your routine or spending too much time managing the upkeep, there’s no need to handle it all on your own. In Northwest Arkansas, there are trusted professionals who know precisely how to care for pools just like yours.
BC Pools proudly serves homeowners throughout Northwest Arkansas, providing reliable and customized care for every type of pool. If you’re ready for less stress and more swim time, contact BC Pools today. You can also get a free pool quote to get started.
