Swimming pools require a lot of mechanical and chemical attention. But if you know what you are doing operating a safe, clean, and enjoyable pool can be quite easy. Understanding the basics will save time and money. Circulation, filtration, and chemistry are three concepts that are vital to understanding the successful functioning of a swimming pool system. Proper water chemistry, filtration, and good circulation go hand in hand to produce clean, clear water.

To understand the importance of any pool circulation system, you must first understand the concepts of water clarity and quality. Water clarity refers to the amount of baceria and other harmful organisms in the pool. Water with good clarity is transparent and enables all underwater features of the pool shell to be clearly visible. It is possible for water to have good water clarity and poor water quality. There are a lot of pretty, clear pools that contain contaminated water.

Chemical disinfectants are added to pools to ensure good water quality, but proper filtration is the first step in achieving good water. Outstanding water chemistry cannot make up for inadequate filtration and vice versa.

The details are explained in the links below:
I. Circulation Systems
A. Pool Outlets
B. Pool Inlets
C. The Hair and Lint Strainer
D. The Pool Pump
E. The Filters
1. Sand Filters
2. D.E. Filters
3. Cartridge Filters
II. Water Chemistry
A. Popular Disinfectants
1. Chlorine
a. Calcium Hypochlorite
b. Sodium Hypochlorite
c. Stabilized Chlorines
2. Bromine
3. Other Disinfectants
B. Water Balance
1. pH
2. Total Alkalinity
3. Calcium Hardness
4. Total Dissolved Solids
C. Balancing Pool Water
D. Water Testing
III. Pool Vacuums and Sweepers
IV. Pool Maintenance
A. Daily Chores
B. Weekly Chores
C. Solving Common Problems
1. Cloudy, Milky Water
2. Malodorous, Irritating Water
3. Green Water
4. Red or Brown Water
5. Blue-Green Water
6. Blue or Black Water
7. Pump Problems
8. Sand in the Pool
9. Excessive Water Loss
10. Excessive Foaming