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Newt Pool Cleaning Service, Van Nuys, Ca

Is it better to drain a pool or clean it? Expert advice from Newt Pool Cleaning Service in Van Nuys, CA

Marty • January 7, 2025

Maintaining a pristine pool is essential...

A swimming pool that has been emptied showing the stairs.

...for both aesthetics and safety. As a pool owner in Van Nuys, you may wonder whether draining or cleaning your pool is the better option. In most cases, regular cleaning and maintenance are preferable to draining your pool, as it preserves water, saves time, and protects your pool's structure.


At Newt Pool Cleaning Service, we understand the unique challenges faced by pool owners in Van Nuys. The warm climate and outdoor lifestyle make your pool a centerpiece of relaxation and entertainment. That's why our expert team is dedicated to providing top-notch pool cleaning services tailored to your specific needs.


While draining may be necessary for major repairs or renovations, routine cleaning is typically the most efficient way to keep your pool in optimal condition. Our professional technicians use advanced equipment and eco-friendly cleaning solutions to ensure your pool remains crystal clear and inviting year-round. Trust Newt Pool Cleaning Service to keep your Van Nuys oasis sparkling without the hassle of frequent draining.

Pool Maintenance in a Nutshell

Pool maintenance is the main factor for keeping your swimming pool clean, safe, and enjoyable. Regular upkeep helps prevent costly repairs and extends the life of your pool equipment.

Importance of Regular Pool Upkeep

Regular pool maintenance guarantees a clean and safe swimming environment. You should clean your pool weekly to remove debris and prevent algae growth. Skimming the surface, brushing the walls, and vacuuming the floor are key tasks to perform.


Proper chemical balance is vital for water safety and equipment longevity. Test your pool water at least twice a week and adjust chemicals as needed. This helps prevent issues like cloudy water, scale buildup, and irritation to swimmers' eyes and skin.


Maintaining your pool's filtration system is another critical aspect. Clean or backwash your filter regularly to ensure efficient operation. Check and clean skimmer and pump baskets to prevent clogs and maintain proper water circulation.

Evaluating Water Quality and pH Levels

Monitoring water quality and pH levels is what makes a pool healthy. Use test strips or a digital tester to check your pool's chemical balance. Ideal pH levels should be between 7.2 and 7.6.

Here's a quick guide to key chemical levels:


  • Chlorine: 1-3 ppm
  • pH: 7.2-7.6
  • Alkalinity: 80-120 ppm
  • Calcium hardness: 200-400 ppm

Adjust these levels as needed using appropriate pool chemicals. High or low pH can cause issues like equipment corrosion, skin irritation, and reduced chlorine effectiveness.


Pay attention to signs of poor water quality, such as cloudy water, algae growth, or strong chemical odors. These indicate that your pool needs immediate attention to restore proper balance and cleanliness.

To Drain or Not to Drain: Making the Right Choice

Pool maintenance decisions can significantly impact your pool's health and longevity. The choice between draining and cleaning depends on various factors specific to your situation.

Reasons to Avoid Draining a Pool

Draining your pool can lead to unexpected issues. Your pool's structure might shift or crack due to hydrostatic pressure, especially in areas with high water tables. This risk increases for older pools or those with existing damage.


Emptying your pool exposes the surface to direct sunlight, potentially causing fading, cracking, or peeling of the pool finish. This damage can be costly to repair and may shorten the lifespan of your pool's interior.


Refilling a drained pool uses a large amount of water, which can be expensive and environmentally unfriendly. It also requires rebalancing the water chemistry from scratch, which takes time and additional resources.

Situations That May Require Pool Draining

Severe algae infestations that resist standard treatments may necessitate draining. If your Aquatic Oasis has turned a deep green or yellow and algaecides aren't effective, emptying the pool might be your best option for a thorough clean.


You might need to drain your pool for major repairs or renovations. This includes resurfacing the pool interior, fixing structural issues, or replacing pool equipment that requires a dry environment for installation.


High levels of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) can make it difficult to maintain proper water balance. If TDS levels exceed 2500 ppm, draining and refilling might be necessary to restore optimal water quality.

The Newt Pool Cleaning Approach

Newt Pool Cleaning Service offers tailored solutions to keep your pool in pristine condition. Our expert team combines industry knowledge with advanced techniques to provide top-notch service.

A logo for newt pool cleaning service with an orange lizard

Comprehensive Pool and Spa Service

At Newt Pool Cleaning Service, we offer a full range of pool and spa maintenance options. Our skilled technicians perform regular cleaning, chemical balancing, and equipment checks to ensure your pool stays in optimal condition.


We use state-of-the-art tools and eco-friendly products to clean your pool efficiently. Our services include skimming, vacuuming, and brushing to remove debris and prevent algae growth.


We also inspect and maintain your pool's filtration system, pumps, and heaters. This proactive approach helps prevent costly repairs and extends the life of your pool equipment.

Ensuring Crystal-Clear Waters Through Expertise

Your pool's water quality is our top priority. We conduct thorough water tests to maintain the perfect chemical balance, ensuring safe and sparkling water for you and your family.


Our team is trained in the latest water treatment methods. We adjust chlorine levels, pH, and alkalinity to create a comfortable swimming environment and protect your pool's surfaces.


We also offer specialized services like tile cleaning and algae removal. These treatments keep your pool looking its best and prevent long-term damage to its structure.


Regular maintenance from Newt Pool Cleaning Service helps you avoid the need for frequent draining. This saves water and reduces your pool's environmental impact.

Best Practices for Pool Owners in Van Nuys

Pool owners in Van Nuys can ensure their pools stay clean and well-maintained by following key practices. A consistent approach to pool care will help you avoid costly repairs and keep your pool ready for use year-round.

Regular Maintenance Schedule

Create a weekly cleaning routine for your Van Nuys pool. Skim the surface daily to remove leaves and debris. Brush the walls and floor twice a week to prevent algae buildup. Vacuum the pool at least once a week.


Test your pool water 2-3 times per week. Maintain proper chemical levels:

  • pH: 7.2-7.6
  • Chlorine: 1-3 ppm
  • Alkalinity: 80-120 ppm


Run your pool pump 8-12 hours daily. This helps circulate water and distribute chemicals evenly.


Clean or backwash your filter monthly. Replace filter media as recommended by the manufacturer.

Adopting a Preventive Cleaning Strategy

Invest in a pool cover to reduce debris and minimize evaporation. This will help maintain chemical balance and save water.


  • Use an automatic pool cleaner to supplement manual cleaning. These devices can help keep your pool clean between professional services.


  • Add algaecide weekly to prevent algae growth. Shock your pool every 1-2 weeks to eliminate contaminants and maintain water clarity.


  • Consider installing a salt chlorinator system. This can provide consistent chlorine levels with less manual chemical addition.

How Professional Services Can Help

Professional pool cleaning services offer expertise and efficiency that can make a significant difference in maintaining your pool. They bring specialized knowledge and tools to address various pool cleaning challenges effectively.

Regular Maintenance Schedule

Professional pool cleaners assess your pool's specific needs. They consider factors like pool size, type, usage frequency, and surrounding environment. Based on this evaluation, they develop a tailored cleaning plan.


You'll receive a schedule that fits your pool's requirements. This may include weekly skimming, brushing, and vacuuming. Professionals also adjust chemical levels to keep your water balanced and safe for swimming.


Their customized approach ensures your pool stays clean and healthy year-round. You won't have to worry about algae growth or cloudy water issues.

Advanced Tools and Techniques

Professional services use state-of-the-art equipment for efficient cleaning. Their arsenal includes powerful vacuums, robotic cleaners, and specialized brushes.


These tools allow for thorough cleaning of all pool surfaces, including hard-to-reach areas. Professionals can remove stubborn stains and built-up grime more effectively than standard home equipment.


They also employ advanced water testing kits to accurately measure chemical levels. This precision ensures proper water balance, reducing the risk of skin irritation or equipment damage.


By using professional-grade tools and techniques, you benefit from a deeper, more comprehensive clean. Your pool will look better and require less frequent maintenance in the long run.

Things to Consider

Deciding between draining and cleaning your pool depends on your specific situation. For minor issues, regular cleaning is often sufficient. Draining may be necessary for major repairs or severe contamination.


At Newt Pool Cleaning Service, we assess each pool individually. Our experts can determine the best approach for your needs. We offer both thorough cleaning services and professional draining when required.


Regular maintenance is key to avoiding extensive problems. Schedule routine cleanings to keep your pool in top shape year-round. This proactive approach can save you time and money in the long run.


Remember, your pool's health affects your enjoyment and safety. Trust the professionals at Newt Pool Cleaning Service to guide you. We're here to ensure your pool remains a sparkling oasis for you and your family.


Contact us today for a personalized evaluation of your pool's needs. Let's work together to keep your pool clean, safe, and inviting all season long.

FAQ's

  • Is it illegal to drain your pool into the street in California?

    Short answer: yes


    To protect our waterways, it's important to keep pool, spa, and fountain runoff on your property. Make sure this water doesn't flow into streets or storm drains.

  • How often should you drain your pool in California?

    Regular maintenance keeps your pool and spa in great shape, so complete draining is only needed every 5 to 10 years. For better efficiency and water conservation, try draining and refilling one-third to one-half of the water at a time.

  • Does leaving a pool empty damage it?


    Draining your pool should be a last resort, as leaving it empty can cause damage and safety risks. Without water, the pool can crack, shift, or even pop out of the ground. Prolonged sun exposure can harm pool surfaces, especially vinyl liners. Empty pools can also attract mosquitoes if water collects. If draining is necessary, it’s best to let a professional handle it to keep your pool safe and intact.

  • Where should I drain my pool water to?

    When draining your pool, always direct the water into your home's sanitary sewer cleanout to avoid fines. Look for a black, threaded cap near a water spigot or city sewer line. Keep the discharge rate under 12 gallons per minute to prevent backups. Never drain into septic tanks, gutters, storm drains, or streets. If water backs up into sinks or showers, stop and call a plumber. If unsure, consult a licensed pool service professional.

  • Is it OK to drain pool water into sewer?

    Draining your pool into the sewer system ensures proper treatment and reuse of the water. Avoid draining into a septic tank, as it’s not meant for pool water. The sanitary sewer cleanout is usually near the ground by your home, often close to a water spigot. If you're unsure, consult a licensed pool professional for help.

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