Weekly Pool Maintenance. Thorough pool care will ensure clean and safe water throughout the swimming season. ... Skim Off Leaves and Debris. ... Brush Sediment from Pool Walls. ... Vacuum the Pool. ... Clean Skimmer. ... Keep Your Pump Running. ... Check Filter and Backwash As Needed. ... Test Pool Water and Add Chemicals. INSPECTION The first step in weekly pool maintenance is a thorough inspection of the area surrounding the pool. The pool deck, pump and filter area, bathhouse and restrooms, fencing and the general grounds areas of the property should be inspected for damage, theft, and malfunctioning equipment. This step should be carried out before any swimmers are allowed onto the premises. You should also be performing mini daily inspections for proper operation and safety. Test the water quality and clarity and make any necessary adjustments prior to swimming. Correct the pH and disinfectant levels to ensure the pool or spa is safe for swimming. Check that the main drain cover is firmly attached and intact. Next, make sure all suction openings in gutters and skimmers are free of debris. Test to see that all inlet fittings and vacuum line covers are in place. Check handrails, ladders, slides and diving boards for damage and that they are firmly attached. Slides should have special consideration and should be checked for worn spots. Make sure the deck area around the pool is clear of any items. Move the furniture away from the pool to a distance that is in accordance with state and local regulations. All signs, warnings and safety equipment must be in place. Empty all waste bins and position them in an easily accessible and visible area. Check the flow meter in the pump room and backwash the filters if needed. Fill the chemical reservoirs and inspect the controller set-points, vacuum and pressure gauges. Finally, clear the hair and lint strainer after you turn off the pump. BRUSHING Pools should be brushed during weekly pool maintenance. Brushing removes the debris from pool and spa walls. Use debris brushes to dislodge any algae that has accumulated. The brush used depends on the material of the pool walls. Plaster walls can be brushed with stainless steel bristles and vinyl surfaces can be brushed with plastic bristles. Using a steel brush on vinyl surfaces could damage them. VACUUMING Vacuuming is another essential task during weekly pool maintenance. Debris on the bottom of a pool stimulates algae growth and makes the pool appear dirty.