How Often to Test Your Pool Water and Clean Your Filters
Whether you have a fiberglass pool, a BioDesign natural-style pool, or a vinyl liner pool, routine maintenance is key to keeping your backyard investment safe, clean, and long-lasting. In Indiana’s seasonal climate, water chemistry and filtration play an especially important role in preserving your pool and avoiding costly issues.
At Pools of Fun, we help homeowners stay ahead of maintenance with expert guidance on how often to test your water, when to clean your filters, and what can go wrong if you skip these simple but essential tasks.
How often should you test your pool water
We recommend testing your pool water at least two to three times a week during swim season, especially during Indiana’s hot summer months when water chemistry can change quickly. After a heavy rain, pool party, or heat wave, test more frequently to keep pH, chlorine, and other levels in check.
This is true for all pool types, but particularly important for vinyl and fiberglass pools, which can be sensitive to unbalanced water. Improper chemical levels can damage liners or cause staining on fiberglass surfaces. At-home kits work for day-to-day monitoring, and we also recommend bringing a water sample to one of our locations for a full professional analysis every few weeks.
When and why to clean your pool filters
No matter what type of pool you have, the filter system does most of the heavy lifting to keep your water clear. Whether you own a cartridge filter or use sand or DE filtration, it needs to be cleaned regularly—about once every four to six weeks during peak use.
If you notice rising pressure on the gauge, slow circulation, or cloudy water, your filter may already be clogged. For fiberglass and liner pools with smooth surfaces, proper filtration also helps minimize surface buildup and staining. For all pool types, dirty filters can lead to algae growth and make it harder to maintain the chemical balance. Filter cleanings also help protect your pump and heater. A clogged filter makes your system work harder, leading to potential equipment failure or decreased efficiency.
What happens if you skip it
When filters are neglected and water testing is inconsistent, several problems can arise:
- Water becomes cloudy or green from poor filtration
- Algae begins to grow in corners or on surfaces
- Equipment wears out faster from strain and buildup
- Vinyl liners may wrinkle or fade due to unbalanced water
- Fiberglass pools can develop scale or discoloration
- BioDesign pools lose their natural clarity and visual appeal
It is far easier to prevent these problems than to fix them after the fact. A simple cleaning schedule and water test routine can extend the life of your pool and avoid expensive repairs down the line.
Let Pools of Fun help you keep your water perfect
We provide everything you need to test and treat your pool water, along with professional service for filter cleanings and system checks. Whether you own a fiberglass, vinyl, or BioDesign pool, our team understands the unique needs of Indiana pool owners and is here to help keep your pool looking and performing its best. Stop by any of our Indiana locations or schedule a service visit today. Keeping your pool clean should never be a guessing game.
