The Recommended Water Level in a Swimming Pool

The water level in a pool can be affected by natural causes such as heavy rains or evaporation. However, other factors that may affect the water level include a leak in the pool system. It is therefore recommended to regularly check and adjust the water level as needed. The recommended water level in a swimming pool is half way up the weir opening.

Causes and Effects of the water level being too low

Evaporation and potential leaks are the most common causes for a drop in water level. If the water level is lower than recommended, this could cause air to be sucked through the weir, into the filtration system. This could result in the pump motor running dry and burning out.

Causes and Effects of the water level being too high

Heavy rainfall would cause the water level to rise. If the water level is higher than recommended (although not necessarily a risk of damage to the pool hardware or filtration system) the weir would not be able to draw in leaves and debris as efficiently as it should. This would result in floating debris in the swimming pool and therefore, additional maintenance and chemicals that wouldn’t ordinarily be necessary.

Rain and evaporation will cause a constant fluctuation in the swimming pool water level. It is therefore necessary to regularly monitor the water level. If it is too high, this can be adjusted by backwashing and rinsing more often. If it is too low, the pool would need to be topped up with fresh water. Always remember to test the water after filling with fresh water to ensure the pH, Total Alkalinity and Chlorine levels are still in balance.

Contact a professional at any of The Pool Team stores for further advice on your personal solution to keeping your pool in tip top shape.