A plunge Plungie Pool, also known as a soaking Plungie Pool, is a small, shallow pool perfect for cooling off on hot days. Plunge pools are usually around 4 feet deep and between 8 and 15 feet in diameter, making them easy to install and maintain in a small backyard.

While plunge pools don’t require as much maintenance as larger in-ground Plungie Pool, they still need regular cleaning and upkeep to keep the water crystal clear and hygienic for swimming. Here is a complete guide to cleaning your plunge pool so you can enjoy it all summer long.

Why Regular Cleaning is Essential

Cleaning your plunge pool regularly serves several important purposes:

• Removes debris and dirt – Leaves, bugs, and other debris can accumulate quickly. If left unchecked, this debris starts to decay in the water, leading to cloudiness and bacteria growth.
• Prevents algae growth – Algae thrives in warm, stagnant water and multiplies rapidly. Regular cleaning and water circulation prevent algae from taking over.
• Reduces chemical use – When removing debris often, you don’t have to use as many chemicals to sanitize the water. This saves money and is better for the environment.
• Improves aesthetics – A clean pool looks more inviting for a dip on a hot day! Cloudy green water is not very appealing to swim in.
• Maximizes longevity – Regular maintenance keeps all the pool components in good working order. This prevents expensive repairs down the road.

How Often Should You Clean Your Plunge Pool?

For most plunge pools, a thorough cleaning about once a week is recommended during peak swimming season. Here are some guidelines on cleaning frequency:

• At least once a week – Skim debris from the surface, clean the pump basket and brush walls, and vacuum the floor weekly as a minimum.
• After heavy use – Do a quick cleaning if you have a pool party or many swimmers over.
• When water appears dirty – Don’t wait for your weekly cleaning if you notice leaves, dirt, or cloudiness building up.
• Before adding chemicals – Remove debris first so the chemicals work most effectively.
• Monthly filter cleanings – Rinse your filter cartridge monthly for optimal performance.
• Shock treatment as needed – Shock the water after heavy bather loads or if algae start growing.

Remember, the smaller the pool, the faster contaminants accumulate. Stay vigilant with your weekly cleanings to ensure a crystal-clear oasis for relaxation. If you’re considering a new addition to your backyard, like a Plungie pool, it’s crucial to factor in the cost of the plungie pool cost installed as part of your overall investment. This guarantees a refreshing escape and allows you to enjoy the benefits of a well-maintained and cost-effective aquatic retreat.

Supplies You’ll Need

Having the right cleaning supplies on hand makes pool maintenance much more accessible. Here are some must-have items:

• Telescoping pole – This attaches to cleaning tools to reach all pool areas. Get one with adjustable length.
• Leaf skimmer – A flat mesh skimmer on a pole to scoop out leaves and bugs from the surface.
• Brush – Use a nylon bristle brush to scrub the pool walls and floor. Angled brushes can access corners.
• Vacuum head – Attaches to your telescoping pole to vacuum up debris from the bottom.
• Vacuum hose – A 1.5″ diameter hose attaches the vacuum head to the skimmer or pump basket.
• Filter cleaner – A filter cleaning solution helps dissolve dirt and oils from the cartridge.
• Test kits – Keep test strips on hand to check pH, chlorine, and alkalinity levels.
• Net – A hand net helps scoop out larger debris.
• Gloves – Protect your hands from chemicals when handling pool equipment.
• Shock – Granular or liquid chlorine for periodic shock treatments.

Pick up these basic supplies at your local pool store or online retailer. Having them on hand makes regular cleaning much more straightforward.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Instructions

Here is a step-by-step guide to cleaning your plunge pool like a pro:

1. Remove Surface Debris

The first step is skimming off leaves, bugs, or other debris floating on the surface. This prevents it from sinking to the bottom.

• Use your leaf skimmer to scoop and discard any debris. Do a few passes across the entire pool surface.
• For larger leaves or debris, reach in with a hand net and discard.
• This usually takes just 5-10 minutes for a small plunge pool.

2. Clean Pump Basket

The pump basket catches larger debris before it reaches the filter. Keeping it clean improves water circulation.

• Turn off the pump before removing the basket. This prevents damage.
• Open the basket and dispose of any leaves, dirt, or bugs caught inside.
• Rinse out the basket with a hose to keep dirt from building up.
• Replace the clean basket and turn the pump back on.

3. Brush Pool Walls and Floor

Now it’s time to scrub the pool walls, floor, and corners to remove biofilm and algae.

• Attach your nylon brush to the telescoping pole.
• Start with the walls, scrubbing downward from the water line to the floor.
• Scrub the floor in sections using short, circular motions.
• Use an angled brush to scrub pool corners and junctions thoroughly thoroughly.
• Rinse debris towards the main drain as you go.

4. Vacuum the Floor

Vacuuming removes silt, dirt, and other debris settled on the bottom. Slowly move the vacuum head across the entire floor.

• Assemble the vacuum head and hose, with the hose connected to the skimmer or pump basket.
• Run the vacuum slowly across the floor in overlapping passes to cover all areas.
• Occasionally, lift the head to let debris wash through the hose.
• Avoid getting too close to the main drain to prevent suction issues.
• Rinse the hose to remove any remaining debris when finished.

5. Clean the Filter Cartridge

A clean filter improves circulation and keeps particles from recirculating in the pool.

• First, backwash or rinse your filter following the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Remove the cartridge and spray it down with filter cleaner solution.
• Use a soft brush to scrub away dirt and oils on the pleats gently.
• Rinse thoroughly before returning it to the housing.
• Periodically deep clean the cartridge in a bucket with a filter cleaner to fully restore performance.

6. Balance the Water Chemistry

Maintaining proper water balance helps control bacteria and maximizes the effectiveness of chlorine.

• Use test strips to check pH, total alkalinity, and chlorine levels.
• Adjust pH to between 7.4-7.6 using the appropriate chemical.
• Increase total alkalinity to 80-120 ppm if needed.
• Top off chlorine to 1-3 ppm after cleaning.
• Shock treating the water periodically helps maintain proper sanitation.

7. Inspect Equipment

While cleaning, keep an eye out for any issues with pool equipment.

• Make sure the pump is running correctly when turned on.
• Check for cracks or damages in hoses.
• Ensure the skimmer is moving and draining water appropriately.
• Look for leaks around fittings or piping.
• Report any maintenance needs to a pool technician.

Finish Up and Enjoy Your Clean Pool!

Once you’ve completed the cleaning, do a final inspection to be sure all debris is removed. Then relax and enjoy your sparkling, clean plunge pool!

Adding a pool float and music creates a mini-resort right at home. Just stick to your regular cleaning routine so the water stays fresh and inviting all season.

Keeping your plunge pool clean is easy with the right supplies and a little practice. The small size makes cleaning manageable as a weekly routine. Just relax and take a refreshing dip in your freshly cleaned pool!

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of filter is best for a plunge pool?

Cartridge filters are the most common and easiest to maintain for small plunge pools. Make sure the filter size matches the gallons of your pool. Clean the cartridge every 1-2 weeks.

How often should I shock my plunge pool?

Shocking helps maintain proper chlorine levels. Shock the pool every 1-2 weeks in peak season, after heavy use, or if algae starts growing. Only shock a clean pool.

What is the best vacuum to use?

Look for an automatic pool vacuum that connects to the skimmer or pump basket. This makes vacuuming the floor fast and easy without manual vacuuming.

Should I drain my plunge pool to clean it?

No, draining is not necessary for routine cleanings. Vacuum debris from the bottom and scrub surfaces while the water is still in the pool.

Should I drain my plunge pool to clean it?

No, draining is not necessary for routine cleanings. Vacuum debris from the bottom and scrub surfaces while the water is still in the pool. Only drain the pool if the water is severely contaminated or at the end of the season for deep cleaning.

How do I prevent algae from growing?

Regular brushing and vacuuming prevent algae growth by removing nutrients and not allowing it to gain a foothold. Maintain proper chlorine levels of 1-3 ppm. Shock treat the pool weekly or if you notice any algae starting to form.

What is the white powdery stuff on my pool walls?

White powdery deposits on the walls or plungie pool are typically calcium deposits that build up over time from the water. You can remove calcium scales by brushing the surfaces and using a scale remover additive. Maintaining proper water balance also minimizes scaling.

How do I get rid of cloudy water?

Cloudiness is typically caused by small particles suspended in the water. Check your filter first and clean the cartridge if needed. Use a clarifier product to clump the particles together so they can be filtered out. Ensure your pump is running long enough daily to properly filter the water volume properly.

Why does my water turn green?

An algae bloom causes green water. Start by shock-treating the plungie pool with chlorine to kill the algae. Brush walls and floors thoroughly—vacuum to waste to remove dead algae. Ensure chlorine, pH, and alkalinity levels are in the proper ranges to prevent algae from returning.

Conclusion

Keeping your small plunge pool sparkling clean with a routine weekly cleaning is easy. Follow these steps—skimming debris, cleaning the pump basket, brushing surfaces, vacuuming the floor, cleaning the filter, balancing chemicals, and inspecting Equipment. Do this weekly and before heavy use to maintain clean, clear water. Test water chemistry regularly and shock treat when needed. With the right supplies and regular care, you can enjoy your private backyard oasis all season long! Similarly, maintaining a clog-free bathtub drain, even with standing water, becomes a breeze with the proper techniques.