5 Pool Maintenance Mistakes That Could Cost You Big

Owning a pool means fun, relaxation, and an upgraded outdoor space—but it also comes with responsibility. One wrong move with your maintenance routine can lead to cloudy water, broken equipment, or costly repairs that eat into your summer plans and your wallet.

Here are the top 5 pool maintenance mistakes we see homeowners make—and how to avoid them.

1. Neglecting Water Chemistry

Why it matters:
Unbalanced water doesn’t just look bad—it eats away at your plaster, damages equipment, and creates an ideal environment for algae and bacteria. High chlorine or low pH can cause corrosion, while high calcium can lead to scale buildup.

What to do instead:
Test your water at least once a week and after big weather changes (especially in Texas). Keep pH between 7.2–7.6 and chlorine between 1–3 ppm. Or let a professional handle the balance for you with a regular maintenance plan.

2. Running the Pump Too Little—or Too Much

Why it matters:
Your pump needs to run long enough to circulate and filter all the water, but excessive run times waste energy and money. Not running it enough allows algae and debris to settle.

What to do instead:
In warm climates like Texas, aim for 8–12 hours of pump run time per day during peak season. A professional can help you set a smart schedule based on pool size and conditions.

3. Ignoring Filter Maintenance

Why it matters:
Dirty or clogged filters reduce water flow and make it harder to keep your pool clean. Over time, this puts extra stress on your pump and can shorten its lifespan.

What to do instead:

• Cartridge filters: Clean every 2–4 weeks
• Sand filters: Backwash when pressure rises 8–10 PSI
• DE filters: Backwash monthly and deep clean a few times per year

4. Skipping Routine Inspections

Why it matters:
Many pool issues start small: a drip from a pipe, a hairline crack in the plaster, or a slight drop in water level. If unnoticed, they quickly turn into expensive leaks, structural damage, or equipment failure.

What to do instead:
Schedule a professional pool inspection once a year—even if everything seems fine. Technicians can catch problems early and save you from major expenses.

5. DIY Repairs Without Expertise

Why it matters:
Trying to patch a leak, rewire a pump, or acid-wash your pool without the proper knowledge can cause more harm than good. It could void warranties—or even pose a safety risk.

What to do instead:
Leave complex repairs and system work to certified professionals. It may cost a little more upfront, but it’s far cheaper than fixing a mistake.

Stay Ahead—Not Behind

At Emerald Pool Care, we help homeowners across Texas avoid these common mistakes through scheduled cleanings, chemical balancing, and expert repair services. Our team keeps your pool safe, efficient, and swim-ready all year long.

📞 Need help maintaining your pool the right way? Contact us today to schedule your first service visit.