A guide for professional pool maintenance services by Bryan Morse
These pools are a little different from a conventional pool. Because the plant material is planted adjacent to and sometimes inside the water proof membrane, they require a modified maintenance routine.
TYPE of FILTER: For this type of swimming pool a Sand Filter is recommended. Sand filters are not outdated or old fashioned. In Arizona and many other states, Sand Filters are used in over 80% of the installations. DE filters are contra-indicated because the DE has been listed as a toxic chemical in the State of California (it is illegal to backwash into the storm drain system). Cartridge Filters will get clogged very rapidly.
If a finer filtering level is desired, add Zeolite (available at SCP) to the Silica Sand in the filter. Zeolite also removes toxins from the water.
ALGAE: Because of the volume of plant material that pollutes the water, especially during the stormier winter months it will be necessary to treat the pool with a quality Algecide around the first of March as algae blooms begin to grow. A Phosphate remover will also be necessary
I recommend: Natural Chemistry; ‘Algae Break 90’ (available at SCP); this will help control algae growth for three months. Apply as needed through the swimming season. Should not be needed in the winter months (after mid October)
- Test pool water and balance chemical levels. Pay close attention to the pH and Alkalinity levels
- Back wash Sand Filter as indicated
- To periodically treat the water for excess Phosphates add Natural Chemistry; ‘Pool Perfect+ PHOSfree’ (available at SCP); at levels indicated on packaging.
- For general water quality and pool health, treat periodically (as needed) with Natural Chemistry; ‘Pool First Aid’ (available at SCP)
It may be that adding a UV filter (with a flow control) and/or an Ozone Generator may help as well.
