Complete Guide to Pressure Washing Pool Underwater [2023]

Keeping your pool clean and maintained is essential for ensuring it remains a safe and healthy place to swim. A dirty or poorly maintained pool can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria and algae, which can pose health risks to you and your family. One way to keep your pool clean is by pressure washing pool underwater.

Pressure washing is a highly effective method of cleaning, which involves using high-pressure water to blast away dirt, grime, and other contaminants. When used underwater, pressure washing can help remove stubborn stains and buildup from your pool walls, floors, and steps. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at pressure washing your pool underwater, including why it’s important, how to do it safely, and what equipment you’ll need.

Why Pressure Wash Your Pool Underwater?

Regular pool maintenance is essential for keeping your pool clean and healthy. This includes regularly cleaning the pool walls, floors, and steps to remove dirt, debris, and other contaminants that can accumulate over time. While brushing and vacuuming are effective methods of cleaning your pool, pressure washing can be a faster and more effective way to remove stubborn stains, dirt, and algae.

Pressure washing your pool underwater can help remove buildup that can’t be easily removed by brushing or vacuuming. This includes things like algae, hard water stains, and calcium buildup, which can be difficult to remove using traditional cleaning methods. By using high-pressure water to blast away these contaminants, you can help keep your pool looking its best and reduce the risk of health hazards associated with dirty or poorly maintained pools.

The Complete Guide to Pressure Washing Pool Underwater

Pressure washing your pool underwater is a relatively simple process, but it’s important to follow the proper safety procedures to ensure you don’t damage your pool or injure yourself in the process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to pressure wash your pool underwater:

Step 1: Drain the Pool to the Appropriate Level

Before you begin pressure washing your pool, you’ll need to drain it to the appropriate level. The ideal level will depend on the type of pool you have, so be sure to consult your owner’s manual or contact a professional if you’re unsure. Generally, you’ll want to drain the water to just below the skimmer.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pressure Washer

Once you’ve drained the pool to the appropriate level, it’s time to prepare your pressure washer. You’ll need a pressure washer that is specifically designed for underwater use, as regular pressure washers can be dangerous when used in or near water. Look for a pressure washer with a high PSI (pounds per square inch) and a low GPM (gallons per minute) rating. This will ensure that you have enough pressure to blast away dirt and grime without using too much water, which can cause erosion or damage to your pool.

Step 3: Attach the Pressure Washer to a Telescoping Wand

Next, attach the pressure washer to a telescoping wand. This will allow you to reach all areas of your pool without having to get too close to the surface, which can be dangerous. The telescoping wand should be long enough to reach the bottom of your pool and should be adjustable so that you can vary the pressure as needed.

Step 4: Wear Protective Gear

Before you begin pressure washing your pool, be sure to wear the appropriate protective gear. This includes a wet suit or wetsuit top, gloves, goggles, or a mask to protect your eyes and respiratory system from the high-pressure water.

Step 5: Begin Pressure Washing

Once you’re fully prepared, it’s time to begin pressure washing your pool. Start at the deep end of the pool and work your way towards the shallow end, being careful not to get too close to the surface of the water. Use the telescoping wand to adjust the pressure as needed and move the nozzle around to cover all areas of the pool walls, floors, and steps.

It’s important to be thorough but also to avoid spending too much time in one area, as this can cause damage to your pool. Move the nozzle back and forth in a sweeping motion, blasting away any dirt, grime, or algae as you go.

Step 6: Rinse the Pool

Once you’ve finished pressure washing your pool, it’s important to rinse it thoroughly to remove any debris or contaminants that may have been dislodged during the cleaning process. Use a garden hose or another source of clean water to rinse the pool walls, floors, and steps, being careful not to re-introduce any contaminants into the water.

Step 7: Refill the Pool

Once you’ve rinsed your pool, it’s time to refill it. Be sure to follow the appropriate guidelines for your specific pool, including filling it to the appropriate level and treating the water with the appropriate chemicals to balance pH and sanitize the water.

Safety Considerations

Pressure washing your pool underwater can be an effective way to keep it clean and healthy, but it’s important to take the necessary safety precautions to avoid injury or damage to your pool. Here are some crucial safety factors to bear in mind:

• Use a pressure washer specifically designed for underwater use to avoid electrical shock or other hazards.
• Wear the appropriate protective gear, including a wet suit or wetsuit top, gloves, and goggles or a mask.
• Use a telescoping wand to avoid getting too close to the surface of the water.
• Avoid spending too much time in one area to avoid causing damage to your pool.
• Rinse the pool thoroughly after pressure washing to remove any dislodged debris or contaminants.
• Follow the appropriate guidelines for refilling your pool and treating the water with the appropriate chemicals.

Equipment Needed

To pressure wash your pool underwater, you’ll need the following equipment:

• A pressure washer specifically designed for underwater use
• A telescoping wand
• Protective gear, including a wet suit or wetsuit top, gloves, goggles, or a mask
• A garden hose or another source of clean water for rinsing

Conclusion

Pressure washing your pool underwater can be a highly effective way to remove stubborn stains, dirt, and algae from your pool walls, floors, and steps. By following the appropriate safety procedures and using the right equipment, you can help keep your pool clean and healthy for swimming. If you’re unsure about pressure washing your pool yourself, be sure to contact a professional for assistance.