Owning a pool in Louisiana is a luxury—but it’s one that comes with responsibility. Between the long swimming season, high humidity, and debris from trees and landscaping, pools in this region are under constant pressure to stay clean and balanced. That’s why weekly maintenance isn’t optional. It’s the foundation of a safe, enjoyable, and long-lasting pool.
A pool that’s maintained weekly will run more efficiently, look better, and last longer. It’s that simple. Skipping weekly upkeep—even for just a few weeks—can cause algae blooms, cloudy water, scaling, corrosion, and equipment failure. In this climate, those problems can escalate fast. That’s why a structured weekly routine matters.
Here’s a breakdown of what weekly pool maintenance should look like—and why every task on the checklist matters.
1. Skim the Surface
Debris like leaves, pollen, twigs, and insects collect on the water’s surface. If left too long, this debris sinks to the bottom, where it begins to decompose and impact water chemistry. Surface skimming should be done with a hand skimmer or net, ideally at least once a week—more often if the pool is surrounded by trees or experiencing heavy use.
2. Empty Baskets
Pump and skimmer baskets collect much of the debris before it enters the filtration system. If these baskets are full, water circulation slows down, which reduces the efficiency of both the filter and chemical dispersal. Baskets should be emptied weekly to keep water flowing freely and equipment operating as designed.
3. Brush Walls and Steps
Algae spores are constantly present in the air, and they love to cling to pool walls—especially in areas with low circulation. Brushing the walls, steps, and corners helps dislodge developing growth and prevents staining and scaling. A proper brush for the pool surface—whether plaster, tile, or vinyl—should be used to avoid damage.
4. Vacuum the Pool
Vacuuming removes the finer debris that the skimmer can’t catch. It’s important to vacuum at least once a week, especially after storms or heavy pool traffic. Whether using a manual vacuum or an automatic cleaner, this step supports water clarity and reduces the burden on the filtration system.
5. Check and Adjust the Water Level
Water should sit at about the midpoint of the skimmer opening. Low water levels can cause the pump to suck in air, leading to overheating or failure. High water levels, on the other hand, reduce the skimmer’s ability to remove floating debris. Rain, evaporation, and splash-out all affect water levels, so weekly adjustment is essential.
6. Test and Balance Water Chemistry
Proper chemical balance keeps the water safe, clear, and non-corrosive. At a minimum, test the following weekly:
- Free Chlorine: 1–3 ppm
- pH: 7.2–7.8
- Total Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm
- Calcium Hardness: 200–400 ppm
- Cyanuric Acid (Stabilizer): 30–50 ppm (for outdoor pools)
Balancing these levels prevents problems like cloudy water, scaling, metal staining, and eye irritation. Weather, usage, and source water all impact chemistry—so consistent testing is crucial.
7. Adjust Chemicals as Needed
After testing, chemical levels should be adjusted based on results. This may include adding chlorine, increasing or decreasing pH, adjusting alkalinity, or adding calcium. All chemicals should be added according to instructions and with safety precautions in place. Overcorrection is common, so gradual changes are best.
8. Shock the Pool When Necessary
Weekly shock treatments help oxidize organic material, break down chloramines, and restore sanitizer strength—especially after heavy bather loads or storms. While not always required every week, shocking should be part of the regular maintenance routine based on usage and water clarity.
9. Clean the Filter
The filter does the heavy lifting when it comes to keeping water clean. Whether the system uses sand, cartridge, or DE (diatomaceous earth), the filter must be cleaned periodically. Weekly inspection ensures the pressure is within the normal range. If pressure is high, the filter may need to be backwashed or rinsed. Clogged filters reduce water quality and strain the pump.
10. Inspect Equipment
Pumps, heaters, chlorinators, and valves all need to be visually inspected for leaks, unusual sounds, or signs of wear. Cracks, corrosion, or poor performance can signal the beginning of a larger issue. Identifying problems early reduces the likelihood of breakdowns and costly repairs.
11. Review Safety and Deck Conditions
The pool area should also be part of the maintenance routine. Check for loose handrails, damaged deck surfaces, missing drain covers, and clear walkways. Clean up any standing water and make sure safety equipment like rescue hooks and life rings are in place and in good condition.
12. Keep a Maintenance Log
Tracking chemical levels, cleaning dates, filter pressure, and any repairs helps identify patterns. It also helps diagnose problems quickly if something goes wrong. A simple spreadsheet or notebook can make long-term maintenance more efficient and predictable.
Weekly pool maintenance isn’t glamorous, but it’s essential. A clean, balanced, and well-functioning pool adds value, enjoyment, and peace of mind. With Louisiana’s long swim seasons and unpredictable weather, the key to success is consistency. Follow the checklist, stay ahead of the curve, and most common pool problems can be avoided before they ever begin.
