Do you own a swimming pool? If not, you may be considering purchasing one in the near future. While it’s no secret that a swimming pool can provide the perfect environment for fun and relaxation, there is some maintenance and upkeep that comes along with it as well.

Certain pool maintenance products such as cleaning supplies and water care chemicals should always be used appropriately and stored safely. In this article, we’re going to cover the importance of storing your pool chemicals and water care products safely and help you figure out a storage system that works best for you.

Read the Instructions

With the cocktail of chemicals that are used to keep the water free of algae and clear of anything that could make it less appealing for swimmers, it only makes sense that they would come with detailed instructions on the container to prevent any errors. Be sure to read the label before adding any chemicals and make sure you have the correct equipment available before starting, such as goggles or gloves.

While reading the instructions, be sure to take note if there are any directions about how to store the chemicals. You should never store pool chemicals in any container other than what it was sold to you in. This is for a few reasons, first so that you have the guidelines and name of the product directly available to you.

Secondly, so that they are stored in an airtight container and thirdly so that they are stored in a container of the right material.

Storing the POOL Chemicals

As with all potentially hazardous materials, it is imperative you keep all pool chemicals away from children, pets and wildlife. Often, the best solution is a controlled environment with a latch, door and/or lock to prevent unauthorized access.

We recommend the following spots for storing chemicals and maintenance tools:

• Shed
• Outdoor storage container
• Garage
• Basement

Chemicals should always be stored somewhere completely dry and very cool, especially in the warm summer months. Be sure to keep the storage area clean of spills to avoid possible cross-contamination. When using some chemicals which are known for oxidizing, a chemical reaction can occur if not handled properly.

It is best to use extreme caution with these chemicals and prevent issues before they can result in a disaster. Even something as simple as using a wet scoop in a bucket of dry powder can have unwanted consequences. Keep dry chemicals as far from moisture as you can.

Guidelines for Careful Use

If you find you are unable to read the label of the container, it is probably time to throw it out. Most chemicals are good for up to two or three years, so be sure to check frequently so that you know that they are up-to-date. Do not mix any chemicals until you are ready to use them directly in the water and even then, make sure to double-check for correct measurements and ratios.

Never add pool water to the bucket as the unnecessary dilution could compromise the integrity of the chemicals. Keep all chemicals in their original containers as well and never store them above your head in the event of a loose lid or leak. In addition, it is not a good idea to reuse any buckets that have been emptied, no matter how well you believe you have cleaned them.

Pools in Wichita Falls

Having a swimming pool can be one of the nicest things you can do for yourself due to both its healing and relaxing properties, which means caring for it should not be something that causes you additional stress.

If you are interested in learning more or would like to find out what options are available for pool renovations, please check out our blog, or come to Outback Pools and Spas located in Wichita Falls where our helpful staff would be happy to answer any questions you may have to help you decide if owning an above-ground pool is right for you!