There is nothing quite like the feeling of swimming in your own pool.
Here in Panama, it is almost necessarily that you have one.
But having a pool is not without issues.
They have to be maintained, or they will change from the beautiful place you spend with your family, into a disgusting dirty pit.
I know you have seen those.
Many people are intimidated by the thought of taking care of their own pool.
Fortunately, pool maintenance is something you can do yourself.
And it can actually be a nice way to spend some time out doors.
Pool maintenance is made much easier if it is an ongoing task.
If things start to get really bad, it might be a good idea to call in a professional.
At least until the pool gets into shape, and you can take over from there.
But if your pool is in good shape, and you just want to keep it that way, it is really not all that difficult.
Basically, it is just a matter of keeping it clean, and utilizing the right chemicals.
One of the most important items your pool has is a filter.
The filter is the first line of defense for keeping dirt out of your pool.
What you may find however, is a filter is not enough.
It will remove the larger debris, but a lot of the smaller dirt will get through.
This problem can be alleviated with a use of flocculants.
Flocculants are chemicals which makes the small dirt in your pool cluster together to form bigger chunks.
These clusters can then be removed by the filter.
Better yet, they can be picked up with a pool vacuum, which sucks up the dirt on the bottom.
By using a vacuum, you will run into fewer issues with filter clogs, and your filters will last longer.
And, it is actually a fun way to spend a couple of hours in the sun.
Next, you have to consider your chemicals.
The primary pool chemical of course being chlorine.
By using a good quality stabilizer, you can reduce the amount of chlorine that your pool requires.
Less chlorine smells and feels better.
This stabilizer will also help keep your PH balance in check.
This means less fluctuations and therefore easier maintenance.
If you check your chlorine and PH levels regularly, you will soon learn the correct amount of stabilizer to make your job easier.
You won't have to add chlorine as often.
Use caution however and add stabilizer in small amounts.
Adding too much could require you to drain the pool and start over again.
As you are monitoring your chlorine and PH, watch the levels of metal in your water as well.
Copper is very common, and you will find iron common in Panama as well.
Both of these metals can stain your pool and cause a very large cleanup job.
Watch out for a brownish (copper) or greenish (iron) tint developing.
And take care of the problem right away, with a chelating agent.
Make sure you follow the directions.
Pool maintenance isn't that difficult, as long as you are consistent and don't wait for problems before dealing with them.
If you follow the directions, a little bit every day, you will have a pool that is a pleasure for your friends and family to enjoy.
Talk to your pool builder or pool supply retailer about the steps to take.
Learn how to take measurements for chlorine and PH.
If you see a problem developing you can't take care of yourself, call your pool professional right away.
Your pool is probably one of your favorite places to hang out with your family.
Maintain it regularly and it will always be ready for your next fiesta.