Check your Filtration System

The filter system removes debris by trapping small particles that get into the pool and do not dissolve.  The filter system components are the pump and the filter.  The pump is the electrical component that drives the pool water through the filter.  Most swimming pool filters use sand, diatomaceous earth (DE) or cartridge elements to filter the water.  Be sure to operate and maintain your filter according to manufacturers specifications including procedures to routinely clean and/or backwash it.

Clean your skimmer/pump basket

Your skimmer and pump basket are designed to collect large debris before it reaches the filter.  You should empty out and clean these baskets frequently.  Failure to remove collected debris often results in poor water circulation, inhibiting maximum filtration efficiency.

Vacuuming

Vacuuming your swimming pool helps to ensure a clean, healthy water environment.
Most manual pool vacuums attach to the skimmer and use the pump pressure to bring debris off of the bottom of the pool through the filter system. *note: There can be no air in the vacuum hose when using a manual vacuum.  Air can be driven out of the vacuum hoses by either submersing the vacuum hose under water or by placing the vacuum hose over one of the return fittings before hooking it up to the skimmer.

Leaf Skimming

Use a Leaf Skimmer attached to your vacuum pole to gather up leaves, insects and other floating debris on the surface of the water.  By removing the debris before it reaches your filter system or the bottom of your pool, you can save time, increase filter efficiency, and prevent staining of the pool bottom.

Brushing

Use a wall brush to clean and scrub pool walls and bottom.  Brushing the pool will allow debris and dirt to be caught in your pool’s filtration system as well as prevent algae growth and staining due to stagnant dirt.  Brush your pool as needed or as part of weekly maintenance.

Keep Surrounding Deck Areas Clean

A good practice in maintaining a clean pool is to keep the deck and surrounding areas free from loose leaves, dirt, and debris.  This dirt and debris will either be brought into the pool by the users or blow into the pool where it will have to be cleaned out.  A regimen of regularly hosing down the deck or raking the surrounding yard is recommended to prevent needless pool water cleaning.