BLOG Texas Pool Maintenance 101: Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them Oct 17, 2025

Maintaining a sparkling clean pool can be both a source of pride and a challenge for homeowners in Texas. With the state's warm climate, your pool is an oasis of relaxation and fun, but keeping it in peak condition requires attention and effort. Unfortunately, many pool owners make common mistakes that can hinder their enjoyment and lead to costly repairs. Understanding these pitfalls and how to avoid them can help you keep your pool in pristine condition.

One of the most common mistakes is improper chemical balance. Keeping your pool's water chemistry in check is crucial for ensuring it is safe and pleasant to swim in. Many pool owners either add too many chemicals or not enough, leading to imbalances that can cause irritation to swimmers’ eyes and skin, not to mention potential damage to pool equipment. Regularly testing your pool water, at least once a week, and adjusting chemicals accordingly is a fundamental step in pool maintenance.

Another frequent oversight is neglecting to clean the pool filter. Your filter is the heart of the pool's circulation system, working tirelessly to remove impurities from the water. Whether you have a sand, cartridge, or diatomaceous earth filter, it's important to clean it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Clogged filters can reduce water flow and cause your pump to work harder, resulting in higher energy bills and a less efficient cleaning process.

Algae growth is another issue that can quickly turn your pool from a clear blue haven into a murky mess. Algae thrive in warm, poorly circulated water, and they're more likely to grow if chlorine levels are not properly maintained. Regularly scrubbing pool surfaces and ensuring adequate chlorine levels can prevent algae from taking over. Additionally, running your pool pump for the right amount of time each day facilitates proper water circulation, helping to keep algae at bay.

Overlooking pool leaks is a mistake that can have significant financial implications. A small, unnoticed leak can waste a substantial amount of water and lead to structural damage. Familiarize yourself with how to conduct a simple bucket test to detect leaks. Fill a bucket with pool water, place it on a pool step, and mark the water level inside and outside the bucket. After 24 hours, a significant difference in these levels may indicate a leak, warranting professional repair services.

Finally, irregular cleaning schedules can exacerbate maintenance issues. Skimming debris, cleaning skimmers, and vacuuming your pool should be part of your regular cleaning routine. Not only does this help maintain water clarity, but it also minimizes the demand on your filtration system and reduces the likelihood of long-term issues. Investing in a robotic pool cleaner can make this task easier and more effective, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your pool and less time maintaining it.

By avoiding these common pool maintenance mistakes, you can prolong the life of your pool and ensure it's always ready for a refreshing swim. Texas Proud Pools is here to help with professional maintenance services tailored to keep your pool sparkling clean year-round. Whether you need regular cleaning or a one-time deep clean, our team is equipped to handle all your pool maintenance needs with expertise and care. Remember, a well-maintained pool is your passport to endless summer fun in the Lone Star State.