Essential Pool Equipment List

Lead Image for Essential Pool Equipment List
  • 2-4 hours
  • Beginner
  • 40-2,500
What You'll Need
Chlorine
Chlorine balancing agents
Water test system
Alkaline balancing agents
Calcium balancing agents
What You'll Need
Chlorine
Chlorine balancing agents
Water test system
Alkaline balancing agents
Calcium balancing agents

Not only is pool equipment vital to keeping the pool safe and healthy, but it may also prevent the need for a major repair bill in the future. By including these 9 essential items you can be confident your pool will continue to be a pleasant hot day past time for years to come.

1. Chemicals

While the pump and filter do the majority of the work to keep your water fresh, chemicals are required to keep the water free of pathogens. These are the bacterias that cause cloudiness, skin and eye irritations and in the worst cases, damage to the pool itself. The art and science of balancing these chemicals go beyond the scope of this article, however, here is the simple combination of chemicals you will need.

2. Filter

As the pump circulates the water, it requires a filter to sift out the larger impurities that accumulate in a pool. There are 3 types of filters to choose from:

Sand—This is the most basic, least expensive and requires the most maintenance. You will need to backwash this filter approximately every 2 weeks and it is best filtering ability is at 20 to 40 micron (small particles) filtering size.

Cartridge—Similar to a carpet vacuum this filter only requires a cleaning 2 times a season and will prevent particles passing from 10 - 15 microns.

DE or Diatomaceous Earth—This is the big daddy of all filters. Using a unique system of exoskeleton grids it will filter as small as 2-5 microns in size. It will need to be cleaned as the water pressure in the pump indicates.

3. Vacuum

Pool vacuums come in as many shapes and sizes as indoor vacuums do. Prices will reflect the features and range from $40 to $2000. Some are manual and work the same way a push vacuum works on a carpet. Others have a set and go, self-powered crawler system that will do the job while you are asleep.

4. Caulk

Over time the caulk around the pool will crack and split. To avoid moss, mildew and general dirt collecting in those cracks you will need a flexible silicon rubber joint compound. These come in various colors to compliment your pool deck or coping stones. This application will also prevent winter water from seeping and possibly freezing, causing the crack to split creating further damage.

5. Pumice

The interior of your pool can become stained by excessive mineral buildup. Monitor the side of your pool to determine the extent of this damage once every year or two. When it comes time to remove these deposits, lower the water level below the damaged tile and scrape clean with the pumice stone. This is also a good time to re-grout, repair, and replace any damaged tiles.

6. Fiber Glass Cleaner And Polish

Monitor the wear and tear on the diving boards and slides. A good fiberglass cleaner is all you need to protect the surfaces from the sun. The polish will help to keep the slide slippery.