Obtain a quality and reliable test kit that allows you to test for chlorine, pH, acid/base demand, alkalinity, calcium hardness, stabilizer, and carefully follow the directions that come with it.

Store the test kit out of the reach of children and pets in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight and replace the test kit reagents annually.

You should evaluate and adjust the chemical balance of swimming pool and/or spa water at least once per weak. Extreme temperature from the sun will require examination and adjustment of the chemical balance more frequently.

Before testing the water, all of the containers used for collecting and testing should be rinsed thoroughly with the water to be tested.

When collecting water for testing, reach beneath the water's surface to collect the sample to obtain a more reliable and accurate reading.

The chlorine level should be within 1.0 to 4.0 parts per million to maintain a sparkling and healthy swimming pool.

The suitable pH level is approximately 7.2 to 7.6 ppm.

The total alkalinity level should be approximately 80 to 140 ppm.

If both alkalinity and pH levels need adjusting, always balance alkalinity first.

Stabilizer, also known as conditioner will significantly increase the lifespan of the chlorine and should be approximately 40 to 100 ppm.

The calcium hardness levels should be approximately 200 to 400 ppm.

A low pH level will cause the chlorine to dissipate much more rapidly and an excessively high pH level will cause the chlorine to become inactive.

When adding chemicals to your swimming pool or spa, make sure the pump is running so that there is adequate circulation of the water to disperse the chemicals throughout the pool and spa.

Never add chemicals to the swimming pool or spa while it is in operation as skin and eye irritations can occur. Only go swimming when the chemical balance has returned to the recommended levels.

After it rains, or after a heavy bather load, or if the sun is evaporating too much water you may need to retest the water and add more chemicals/water to your swimming pool and spa as necessary.

A solar pool cover can reduce the amount of water evaporating out of your swimming pool and spa while retaining heat from the sun and/or pool heater.

Utilize a skimming-net and a pool vacuum to clean all of the dirt, leaves and other debris floating in the swimming pool and spa on a regular basis.

Completely remove all of the debris from the skimming baskets at the swimming pool and pump regularly. If the skimming baskets are constantly full with leaves and other debris, it can damage the pump if it is not getting sufficient water circulation.

Screen enclosures are excellent structures that keep leaves and other debris from falling into and contaminating your swimming pool and spa. They also inhibit some of the sun's UV rays, which will reduce the amount of water evaporation, and increase the lifespan of the chlorine.

Brush the swimming pool and spa walls, steps, and swim-outs thoroughly and utilize a swimming pool vacuum to clean the floors of the pool and spa at least once a week.

The pump must be operated 8 to 12 hours per day throughout the hottest summer months, and 3 to 5 hours per day throughout the winter months to maintain a sparkling and healthy swimming pool. A variable or a multi-speed pump can significantly lessen the electrical consumption, but will require longer periods of runtime when run at the lower speed.

Clean or backwash the filter every 4 to 6 weeks or when the normal clean pressure increases 8 to 10 psi, and replace the filter on a regular basis as recommended by the manufacturer. A dirty filter means your swimming pool or spa will not be as sanitary as it should be, and the pump motor will be under unnecessary strain.

Dangerous water pressure can build up within the entire pump and filter system. Seek advice from a professional or the equipment operations manual before you attempt any maintenance operation.

If your pump is making loud or unusual noises, have it serviced or replaced by a professional as necessary.

Have all leaks in your swimming pool, spa, and plumbing system inspected and repaired by a professional as soon as you become aware of them.