Weekly Pool Maintenance Basics

Maintaining a pool in Central Texas isn’t complicated, but it does require consistency. Here’s what you need to do every week to keep your water clear and your equipment happy.

Skim and Brush

Start by skimming the surface with a leaf net. In Steiner Ranch and Lakeway, you’ll be battling oak leaves, cedar pollen, and the occasional critter. After skimming, brush the walls and steps to prevent algae from getting a foothold.

Check and Balance Chemistry

Test your water at least once a week. The three numbers that matter most:

• Free Chlorine: 2–4 ppm
• pH: 7.4–7.6
• Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm

Central Texas water tends to run high in calcium and alkalinity, so you’ll likely be adding acid more often than you think.

Clean the Skimmer and Pump Baskets

Pop open your skimmer basket and pump strainer basket. Remove debris. This takes 30 seconds and prevents most pump problems.

Vacuum or Run the Cleaner

If you have an automatic cleaner, make sure it’s running and the bag or canister isn’t full. If you vacuum manually, work in overlapping rows — don’t rush it.

Inspect Equipment

Take 60 seconds to look at your pump, filter pressure gauge, and any automation. Unusual sounds, leaks, or a filter pressure 8+ PSI above clean? Time to act.

Rather leave it to the pros? The Pool Police handles all of this and more on every weekly visit. Call (512) 300-4136.