Scrubbing the pool - is it really necessary?

[raterus]

My pool has been up for over a month now, and I know it's recommended to scrub the entire surface once a week with a brush to curb algae growth. Problem is, I haven't really been doing that, and I haven't had a problem with algae either. The sides of my pool are squeaky clean, and show no algae slipperyness. Am I playing with fire by avoiding this task, or if you keep your pool balanced, this chore doesn't really need to happen?

Thanks,
--Michael

 

[jblizzle]

You are taking a risk.

Confession: I do not remember the last time I fully scrubbed my pool, although I have a robot that does an OK job of scrubbing.

 

[raterus]

Right, I forgot to mention I have a polaris 360 cleaner, and I run it often, so at least the bottom gets touched.

 

[jblizzle]

But the 360 does not actually have brushes right? Just uses water movement to suck up the dirt.

 

[raterus]

yeah, I guess you're right about that. It has the tail with a spongy thing, but that probably isn't going to do much.

 

[zea3]

*Please note this is my opinion and not supported by any documentation* I think regular brushing is a bigger issue with plaster pools due to the surface texture which provides tiny nooks and crannies for algae to begin if you let your FC drop below recommended levels. As long as your vinyl pool has good circulation, no wrinkles, and the FC stays in range you can probably get away with only brushing every once in a while.

 

[crek31]

At a minimum, i would brush the waterline and back of the skimmer. Don't ask why this is my advice