You can check if your pool is bonded by looking for a copper wire that connects to the motor and pumps and then extends into the ground. However, if you’re unfamiliar with electrical wiring, contacting a pool electrician to inspect the motor and pumps is safest. An electrician can check the system and determine if it is up to code and meets all swimming pool bonding requirements.

You should add one 3-inch chlorine tablet for every 5,000 gallons of water in your pool. If you have a smaller pool, it’s better to use 1-inch chlorine tablets so you don’t accidentally add too much chlorine. Alternatively, you can add two to three ounces of powdered chlorine or half a gallon of liquid chlorine for every 5,000 gallons of water.

Liquid chlorine is better for shock treatments or instances where you need to raise your chlorine levels quickly. Tablets are better for regular maintenance. Tablets take more time to dissolve but require less effort. You don’t need to measure out volume, and you can set them in a floater and let that do the work.

If your pool’s pH level is too high, chlorine won’t be as effective. Since chlorine is responsible for sanitation and keeping bacteria out of your pool, a high pH level could create a higher risk for bacterial diseases. It can also make you more susceptible to rashes and infections (like swimmer’s ear). Need to lower your pool’s pH? You can do it yourself for between $5 and $40.