How to Maintain a Pool in the Arizona Desert
For many in Arizona, having a pool in the backyard is the only way to go. After all, with temperatures that can hit 120 degrees, having a nice, cool respite from the blazing sun isn’t a bad option. But keeping your pool in tip-top shape in the desert, especially during the summer, can be a bit of a challenge. There’s intense heat, dry air, dust, and monsoon storms that can happen in the blink of an eye.
But, with a little know-how, you can keep your pool clean, gorgeous, and inviting all year round — and we’re going to help you make it easy!
Check out our AZ pool maintenance checklist below.
Daily and Weekly Tasks
✓ Skimming: Dust, leaves, and insects are daily visitors in an Arizona pool. Grab a skimmer and remove any debris from the water's surface every day. It’s a simple task, but it prevents larger issues later on.
✓ Vacuum the Pool: The pool floor can collect dirt and grime pretty quickly. Vacuuming once a week helps keep things spotless and looking good. Automatic or robotic pool cleaners are great for this, especially if you want to avoid the hassle.
✓ Brush the Walls: Algae and dirt can stick to your pool walls and floor (yuck!). Be sure to give each a good scrub with a pool brush every single week. That way, you can prevent algae growth and gross buildup.
Water Chemistry
✓ Test Your Levels: With Arizona’s heat, your pool's chemical balance can change pretty fast. Check the pH and chlorine levels at least twice a week, and aim for a pH between 7.4 and 7.6. When it comes to your chlorine levels, try to keep it between 1.0 and 3.0 ppm. And, of course, adjust as needed to keep the water clear and safe.
✓ Check Alkalinity and Hardness: Alkalinity should be between 80 and 120 ppm to keep your pH stable. Calcium hardness should be in the range of 200 to 400 ppm to prevent scaling or corrosion.
Filtration System Care
✓ Clean the Filter: Dust and debris mean your filter might need extra attention. Backwash your filter every 1-2 weeks, or clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions — that way, your pool water stays clear and you’re preventing clogs.
✓ Check the Pump: Your pump works hard, especially in the hot summer months. Make sure it’s being as efficient as possible, and consider running it for 8-12 hours daily during peak heat. Regularly inspect it for any issues or signs of wear.
Seasonal Tips
✓ Beat the Summer Heat: In the blazing summer, your pool can get really hot, so use a pool cover or solar blanket to keep the heat in when you’re not using the pool. This also helps in reducing the load on cooling systems.
✓ Winter Prep: Even though Arizona winters aren’t harsh, you still need to prep your pool. Lower the pump’s running time and keep up with maintenance and water checks, but don’t stress too much about freezing temperatures (because, Arizona).
Handling Specific Issues
✓ Dust and Pollen: Especially with two blooms a year, Arizona’s dust and pollen can clog your pool quickly. Using a pool cover when the pool isn’t in use helps reduce debris. A good skimmer net can also help catch larger particles before they sink.
✓ UV Damage: The sun can be tough on pool equipment, so it’s important to regularly check for UV damage and replace/repair parts as needed. You can opt for UV-resistant chemicals and materials to extend the life of your equipment.
✓ Prevent Algae: Algae can grow fast in the heat. Regularly shock your pool with chlorine to keep algae at bay. And if you happen to spot any green or slimy spots, use an algaecide to tackle the problem right away.
Arizona isn’t known for its particularly mild climate (especially during the summer), but that doesn’t mean that maintaining a pool can’t be done here! In fact, it can be totally manageable if you stay on top of your checklist. With these tips, you’ll keep your pool in great shape and ready for a refreshing dip anytime you need to cool off — giving you your own little personal oasis in the desert.