Definition of a Swimming Pool

I sometimes explain it in this way: "It's like big a bathtub, only we don't drain the water after each time we use it." and " We have to try to keep stuff from growing in it, remove the debris that gets in it, and try to make it (the water, the structure and the equipment) last as long as possible." Which means we must spend time getting to know it and time doing something good for it. The hardest part is spending the time -- most 'standard' backyard swimming pools can be well maintained in about 1 hour per week, depending on environmental factors. If you spend this time routinely then you should never have any major issues, beyond unforeseen equipment failure.

I'm weirdly adamant in my opinion that anyone can maintain a swimming pool if they understand some very basic operations and the particular needs of the one they are maintaining. I have trained new operators of highly elaborate aquatic facilities, in a short time, by starting with two statements: 1. "It's just like Sesame Street". 2. "If you can count to 10 and tell red from green (there are ways to get around that) you can maintain a pool". Of course that's exaggerated, but I really want people to understand that it can be easy.

However, in order to understand what we should be doing with a swimming pool, we must know exactly what we have. Here are some definitions:

Merriam-Webster : a pool suitable for swimming; especially : a tank (concrete or plastic) made for swimming.
(I always thought we weren't supposed to use the words we are defining in the definition)

Dictionary.com : a tank or large artificial basin, as of concrete, for filling with water for swimming.
(better, I guess)

Me : a vessel or body of water large enough to immerse into and move about freely-- needing to be maintained to ensure comfort and safety of the user, and to extend the lifespan of the vessel and it's related equipment.
(probably some reasons the others don't define it like this, but they're not in the industry)

Something to remember, as you search for answers, is that a swimming pool is not cared for the same as a spa (hot tub), a waterfall, a fountain, a water slide or play features at a water park. Each pool behaves differently, even if yours is identical to your next door neighbors'.

There are a lot of websites and blogs dedicated to swimming pool maintenance. This one is different because I hope it leads you to learn more by talking to me or your local professional about your specific needs.