As the temperatures begin to soar in Al Wakrah, residents look forward to cooling off in their backyard pools. However, before you take that first refreshing dip, it’s crucial to ensure your swimming pool is clean, safe, and ready for the summer heat. Proper pool preparation not only extends the life of your pool but also ensures the health and safety of your family and guests.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get your pool summer-ready in Al Wakrah’s climate.
1. Remove the Pool Cover and Clean the Surroundings
If you’ve used a pool cover during the off-season, the first step is to carefully remove it. Before doing so, clean off any debris, dust, or standing water from the top of the cover to prevent it from falling into the pool. Once removed, rinse and dry the cover completely before storing it in a clean, dry space.
Also, don’t forget to clean the area around the pool. Trim any overgrown plants or grass, sweep the deck, and remove any fallen leaves or debris to avoid them ending up in your freshly cleaned pool.
2. Inspect the Pool Structure and Equipment
Conduct a thorough inspection of your pool and its equipment before refilling or starting any system:
Check the walls and floor of your pool for cracks, algae, or discoloration.
Inspect the filter, pump, and pipes for any leaks or signs of damage.
Ensure that skimmers, drain covers, and return jets are clean and intact.
Test all lights and safety equipment for functionality.
In Al Wakrah, where high temperatures can cause material wear and tear over time, catching small issues early can prevent costly repairs down the line.
3. Deep Clean the Pool
Whether you drained your pool during winter or not, a deep cleaning is a must. You can either hire a professional pool cleaning service in Al Wakrah or take the DIY route if you have the time and tools.
Brush the pool walls and floor to loosen any algae or sediment.
Vacuum the pool thoroughly to remove all debris.
Backwash the filter to ensure it’s working efficiently.
Clean out the skimmer and pump baskets as well.
This step lays the foundation for balanced water chemistry and sparkling clear water all summer long.
4. Fill and Test the Water
If your pool has been drained, now is the time to refill it with clean water. Once filled, allow the water to circulate for several hours before testing.
Use a reliable pool testing kit or strips to check the following:
pH levels (Ideal range: 7.4–7.6)
Chlorine levels (1–3 ppm)
Alkalinity (80–120 ppm)
Calcium hardness
Cyanuric acid (stabilizer)
Unbalanced water can lead to issues such as skin irritation, algae growth, and damage to your pool surface or equipment.
If you’re unsure about testing or adjusting your pool chemistry, consider hiring a local pool professional in Al Wakrah for the initial setup.
5. Shock the Pool
Even if your water looks clean, it’s a good idea to shock your pool before you begin using it for the season. Shocking involves adding a high dose of chlorine or non-chlorine oxidizer to eliminate bacteria, algae, and organic contaminants.
Do this in the evening or at night, and allow the pool to circulate for at least 8–12 hours before swimming.
6. Set a Regular Maintenance Routine
Once your pool is ready, staying on top of maintenance is key to keeping it that way:
Skim the pool daily to remove leaves and debris.
Check chemical levels 2–3 times per week.
Vacuum and brush at least once a week.
Run the filtration system for 8–12 hours daily, especially during peak summer heat.
Creating a checklist or scheduling professional maintenance every few weeks can save you from emergency fixes later.
7. Prepare for the Al Wakrah Summer Heat
The climate in Al Wakrah is hot and dry, especially during peak summer months. This impacts not only your pool water levels (due to evaporation) but also chemical stability. Here are a few tips specific to the local climate:
Use a solar pool cover to reduce evaporation.
Monitor and top off water levels frequently.
Consider installing a pool chiller if the water gets too warm.
Store pool chemicals in a cool, shaded place to prevent deterioration.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your pool for summer in Al Wakrah doesn’t have to be stressful. With a bit of planning and regular care, your pool can become the perfect retreat during the scorching Gulf summer. Whether you choose to maintain it yourself or hire a professional pool cleaning service in Al Wakrah, the key is to start early and stay consistent.