Tips for Basic Care of Vinyl Liner Swimming Pools

Vinyl liner swimming pools are much more sensitive to environmental elements, humanly introduced elements, and water chemical balance than other pool types. For this reason it is very important to establish a strict routine for properly balancing the pool water chemicals, regularly cleaning the swimming pool, and keeping the pool equipment in good working order. Following are several helpful tips on the most important maintenance issues for vinyl liner pools.

Maintain Proper Pool Water Balance – because vinyl liners are much less forgiving with mistakes in balancing the pool water chemistry, it is extremely important to be diligent about routine chemical testing and water chemistry adjustments. The recommended chemical parameters for balanced water in vinyl liner swimming pools are as follows:

pH - 7.2 – 7.6 ppm
Total Alkalinity – 80 – 150 ppm
Calcium Hardness – 150 – 300 ppm
Free Chlorine – 1 – 4 ppm
Cyanuric Acid – 30 – 80

Use Pool Equipment Designed for Vinyl Liner Swimming Pools – vinyl liner pools can be very durable, but since they will rip and tear if not treated properly, be sure to use cleaning equipment that is meant for vinyl liners. Brushes, vacuum heads, and automatic pool cleaners all come in models that have been specifically designed for use with vinyl liner pools. When purchasing such pool equipment, be sure to be specific about getting the equipment made for vinyl liner pools.

Don't Completely Drain a Vinyl Liner Pool – avoid draining a vinyl liner pool unless absolutely necessary and always consult the manufacturer for advice and instructions prior to draining. Removing the water pressure can shrink the vinyl liner and become unsightly and/or rip or tear the liner.

Maintain the Water Line - Routinely wipe down the water line to avoid build up of dirt and grime which can cause staining and discoloration. Check with the liner manufacturer for the proper tools to use when wiping the water line, but don't use anything abrasive. In general a soft sponge is recommended. Also, don't be overly aggressive when wiping the liner. In some cases, a special cleaner might need to be used. Again, check with the vinyl liner manufacturer for recommendations on the proper vinyl liner cleaning chemicals.

Regular Brushing – routine brushing will help keep dirt, algae, and excessive chlorine from clinging to the pool walls and fading or staining the vinyl liner.

Following these vinyl liner swimming pool tips can help save time and money by avoiding premature aging, maximizing the life of the vinyl liner, and reducing expenses for pool chemicals.