Issue link: https://www.cominghomemag.com/i/1520927
ASK A COMMUNITY EXPERT Q What Should We Do Before Opening Our Community Pool? SMART SUGGESTIONS FROM A MAINTENANCE PRO. About Jamie Luke Jamie Luke is the senior vice president of Associa OnCall. He's a seasoned leader and maintenance professional, serving in the technology and property management sectors for over 26 years. With the sun scorching and temps soaring, there's no greater oasis than the community pool. A neighborhood hot spot, a community pool is a paradise close to home. But inviting cool waters, sparkling-clean features, and refreshing extras don't come without proper pool maintenance. Jamie Luke, Associa OnCall's senior vice president, has spent more than 26 years helping community associations maintain their pools and outdoor amenities season after season. A trusted and well-respected expert, he shares tips to ensure your pool is clean and safe for opening day. 28 COMING HOME MAGAZINE Let's dive in! To get your community pool prepped and set for summer, you should: Inspect and wash surrounding areas. Since the pool area is often off-limits in the off-season, it can become dirty, damaged, and rusty. Inspect external equipment, structures, and surfaces and give everything a good wash. Pay attention to: • Furniture. Look for frayed or broken materials and pieces. • Fencing. See that fencing gaps are up to code. • Pool gates. Guarantee latching mechanisms work. Clean and repair the pool. Your pool's interior likely needs some love. Knock these interior tasks off your to-do list: • Power washing • Skimming and scrubbing • Removing branches, leaves, and debris • Securing ladders and handles • Fixing tile chips and cracks • Treating algae Assess filter systems and water quality. Your pool's filtration system manages the water quality and balances chemicals. Confirm pH and chlorine levels are safe, especially after a long closure. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pH levels should be between 7.2 and 7.8. Chlorine concentration should measure to at least one ppm (parts per million). If levels are off, it can lead to calcium buildup and other issues. Make sure water levels are suitable for swimming. Use your pool skimmer to check water levels. Pool water should be halfway up your skimmer plate; anything higher can be bad for pool pumps and cleaning mechanisms. If levels are too high, drain your pool until it's low enough. If levels are too low, pump more water into the pool. Restock safety equipment. Unfortunately, accidents and emergencies can happen, so be prepared. Play it safe—stock these items, make certain they meet relevant standards, and double-check they're damage-free: • Rescue board • Shepherd's hook • Ring buoys • Life vests • Rescue tube • Gloves and goggles • First aid kit • Automated external defibrillator (AED) • Safety signage Lastly, slip on your shades and sit back and relax. Your pool is officially ready to welcome the summer vibes!