Living in Phoenix means enjoying sunny days and plenty of time spent in the pool. As a Phoenix homeowner, it’s important to properly maintain your pool so it’s clean, safe, and ready for swimming season. Conducting regular pool inspections and maintenance is the best way to get the most out of your pool.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide a pool inspection checklist for Phoenix homeowners to use. We’ll cover what you need to look for when inspecting your pool, equipment, decking, fencing, and more. Having a solid pool inspection Phoenix routine is key to identifying issues early and preventing bigger problems down the road.

Why Regular Pool Inspections Are Crucial

It’s easy to just skim the pool and think everything looks fine at a quick glance. But there are important maintenance issues that require a more thorough inspection. Here are some key reasons why home pool inspections should be done regularly:

• Ensure safety – Faulty drains, ripped liners, and faulty electrical equipment can create major hazards if not caught early. Safety should always be the number one concern.
• Prevent water damage – Leaks, cracks, and other water issues can lead to major damage if left unaddressed. Catch problems before they turn into huge repairs.
• Maintain proper chemical levels – The right chlorine and pH balance keeps water clean and swimmers healthy. You need to monitor this closely.
• Extend equipment life – Well-maintained equipment lasts longer. Keeping on top of repairs and part replacements avoids bigger breakdowns later.
• Protect your investment – Regular upkeep protects the value of your pool. Letting it deteriorate means much higher costs down the road.
• Keep the pool open longer – Stay on top of opening and closing tasks so you can maximize the pool season in Phoenix’s long summers.

No matter what shape your pool is currently in, starting a regular inspection routine is essential. Even brand new pools require vigilant maintenance. Get into the habit sooner rather than later.

What to Include in Your Pool Inspection Checklist

Pool inspection in Phoenix checklists will vary depending on the type of pool you have. Most homeowners will want to inspect the following areas on a regular basis:

The Physical Pool

• Pool surface – Check for cracks, damage, leaks, and any changes in the overall structure.
• Waterline tiles – Make sure tiles are secure and not missing or damaged.
• Coping stones – Look for missing or loose stones that surround the pool edge.
• Interior finish – Ensure plaster, fiberglass, or other interior surfaces are free of cracks and deterioration.
• Decking and sidewalks – Check for cracks, slippery areas, sharp edges, and deterioration.
• Ladders, rails, diving boards – Make sure all accessories are securely installed. Test for steadiness and slipperiness.
• Pool floor – Brush regularly and vacuum to keep free of debris and algae buildup.
• Liner – Look for tears, bubbles, and adequate tightness if you have a vinyl liner pool.
• Drain covers – Ensure they are present, secure, and meet safety guidelines.
• Pool lighting – Replace burnt out bulbs as needed to light the entire pool.

The Filtration System

• Pumps – Listen for unusual sounds, leaks, and other signs of issues.
• Filters – Backwash and clean filters regularly according to manufacturer instructions.
• Skimmers – Remove debris, make sure the flap is functioning, check for cracks.
• Valves – Open/close valves completely, replace if broken.
• Gauges – Make sure pressure gauges accurately show pump and filter readings.
• Pipes – Look for leaks at fittings, clamps, o-rings. Tighten if needed.
• Flow meter – Note rate of flow to determine if the system is working properly.
• Drain covers – Ensure anti-entrapment drain covers are secure and in good shape.

The Water Itself

• Chemistry – Test and adjust chlorine, pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness as needed.
• Clarity – Skim surface debris, brush walls, and vacuum regularly for clear water.
• Algae – Brush walls and use algaecide if green color appears.
• Stains – Add stain removers to water if brown spots appear on walls or floor.
• Salt concentration – Ensure proper levels in saltwater pools.

The Pool Area

• Fencing/gates – Make sure the area is fully enclosed with working gates and locks for safety.
• Lighting – Replace bulbs for adequate nighttime visibility around the pool.
• Pathways – Check for slipperiness, clear obstructions so there’s a clear path around the pool.
• Chemical storage – Ensure all chemicals are clearly labeled and stored securely away from the pool.
• Emergency equipment – Have fully stocked first aid kits and rescue devices on hand near the pool.
• Signage – Post safety, no diving, and other rules signage where visible.
• Landscaping – Trim back encroaching tree branches. Remove debris from the pool area.
• Electrical – Hire an electrician periodically to ensure grounding, bonding, and other electrical safety.

Equipment Inspections

• Pump – Lubricate, check for leaks, odd noises, ensure adequate water pressure.
• Filters – Inspect grids, sand, cartridges. Backwash as needed per manufacturer instructions.
• Cleaners – Remove debris, ensure proper wheels, flappers, satisfaction with cleaning performance.
• Heaters – Clean intake grates, check fuel levels, test functionality annually.
• Covers – Check pulleys, gears, material condition if pool has a cover. Lubricate and replace parts as needed.
• Handrails, slides, diving boards – Check for proper installation, wear and tear, slipperiness.
• Thermometers, gauges – Ensure accuracy. Replace if readings seem off.
• Timers, automation controls – Set schedules for filtration, cleaners. Make sure any automated systems are functioning properly.

When to Conduct Pool Inspections

Ideally, certain aspects of your pool should be inspected daily or weekly for optimal maintenance. Here are some best practices on timing for your pool inspections:

Daily

• Skim debris from the surface
• Check water level
• Test chlorine, pH levels
• Make sure pumps are running properly
• Check for visible issues with equipment
• Ensure fencing, gates, and locks are working

Weekly

• Brush pool walls and floor
• Vacuum/clean pool thoroughly
• Inspect tile lines and coping
• Test salt or mineral levels if applicable
• Check plumbing for leaks
• Clean baskets, skimmer, pump
• Inspect safety equipment for readiness

Monthly

• Thoroughly inspect all equipment
• Test water balance and sanitizer levels
• Check interior pool surface for deterioration
• Lubricate pumps, motors, valves
• Confirm proper chemical storage
• Operate valves to prevent sticking

Annually/Prior to Season Opening

• Confirm all equipment is running properly
• Replace old parts ahead of pool season
• Update emergency equipment
• Deep clean entire pool and filtration system
• Repair any cracks or deterioration
• Hire professionals to service equipment
• Confirm proper fencing/enclosure

The most important thing is to establish a consistent pool inspection routine. Monthly tasks may need to be done more or less frequently depending on your individual pool maintenance needs. Stay vigilant!

Top Pool Inspection & Maintenance Tips

Here are some key tips to remember as you establish your new pool inspection routine:

• Follow a checklist to be methodical during inspections
• Set reminders on your phone for daily, weekly, and monthly tasks
• Have a pool maintenance log to track issues and tasks over time
• Keep spare parts on hand for pumps, filters, chlorinators
• invest in quality chemical testing equipment for accuracy
• Brush and vacuum the pool at least once a week
• Shock the pool water monthly to prevent algae growth
• Replace old parts before they break to avoid frustration later
• Take clear photos of equipment when installing or replacing so you know how to reinstall correctly
• Have professional inspections annually and address all recommended repairs
• Review your equipment warranties so you don’t miss required maintenance
• Learn how to troubleshoot basic issues so you can fix problems quickly

Consistent, methodical pool inspection and upkeep is the key to longevity and safety. Start following this comprehensive pool inspection checklist today to get ahead of problems before they happen. With some diligence, you can avoid major headaches and costly repairs down the road.

Hiring a Pool Inspection & Maintenance Company

For Phoenix homeowners who don’t have the time or desire to handle all their own inspections and maintenance, hiring a pool company is a smart choice. Here’s what to look for when hiring:

• Licensed contractors – Avoid “handymen” and make sure any professionals are licensed in Arizona.
• Experienced with local pools – Find a company familiar with Phoenix environments and pool types.
• Offer maintenance contracts – Look for monthly or seasonal contracted rates to make pool upkeep affordable.
• Provide all services – Maintenance, repairs, cleaning, inspections, equipment – find a “one stop shop.”
• Use experts for specialties – Make sure they have qualified specialists for plumbing, electrical, automation.
• Have a range of appointment times – Evenings and weekends should be available for scheduled service calls.
• Respond quickly for emergencies – Ask about emergency response policies.
• Give detailed reports – The best companies will provide a full inspection report with photos detailing any issues found and repairs needed.
• Have certified techs – Well-trained techs follow protocols and are knowledgeable to answer homeowner questions.

Don’t be afraid to ask for references from past customers. A reputable company will gladly provide them. Finding the right pool inspection Phoenix and maintenance partner gives peace of mind that your pool is in competent hands.

Be Pool Ready for Phoenix Summers!

There’s nothing better than having your beautiful pool ready to jump into as soon as the Phoenix temperatures rise. Following this thorough pool inspection checklist and making pool maintenance a regular routine is the best way to ensure your pool is ready when you are.

Be diligent, follow safety precautions, and don’t hesitate to call in the experts when needed. With the proper upkeep, your pool will be an enjoyable oasis and wonderful addition to your Phoenix home for years to come. Have a safe and spectacular pool season!