What pool supplies do I need?

 If you are asking what pool supplies you need, you probably understand that owning a swimming pool is a big responsibility. Your pool is more than just a hole in the ground with water in it. And that means you are going to need access to a few specific supplies.

The following is a quick list of the basic tools you will need to care for a swimming pool and why you need them.

1. A very long pole

How deep is your pool? You are going to need a telescoping pole that is several feet longer than that depth to be able to comfortably reach down the side of the deepest parts of your pool.

How wide is your pool? If you have to reach something in the middle of the pool, underwater, and in the deep end, your pole extension should be long enough to reach all the way across the water’s surface. What you are grabbing determines the attachment on the end of the pole too. For debris and toys, go with something like a traditional leaf net or rake that can scoop things off the bottom. A brush is also extremely helpful for removing algae from walls so it can be picked up by a net, vacuum, or filter.

Don’t buy a cheap pole. Cheap poles break and create or worsen dangers associated with swimming. 

2. Chemical testing kit

Chemical test strips are just one part of a test kit. They are important for letting you know about specific imbalances, but there is much more involved with testing your pool’s chemical balances. A complete test kit will measure chlorine/bromine, pH, alkalinity, calcium, acidity, and more if necessary.

3. Vacuum set

Both your hose and vacuum head need to be of good quality. The better the vacuum head, the less time spent vacuuming (up to a point obviously). Your main goal of owning a pool is to actually use it, not just clean it. Whatever you can do to ease the burden of ownership will make you feel better about your purchase.

4. Chemicals

‘Chemical’ is a scary word, but can be broken down into manageable segments once you do a little research. Your best option is to ask your pool professional what to do. Salt water pools need different chemicals than traditional chlorine pools. And different environmental factors play into which chemicals you will need to keep in stock.

The most important thing to do is just pay attention. Know what you have, know what runs out quickly, and don’t overstock your supplies.

Bonus item: Storage

All pool owners need somewhere to store their supplies and chemicals. Store liquids below solids so nothing gets ruined. Keep your chemicals separate from everything else. Store everything in a well-ventilated space that doesn’t get too hot in the summer or too cold in the winter.