7 Things That Actually Make a Pool Stay Clean in Spring–Houston (And How We Handle Them at Happy Frog Pools)

People ask all the time: “What’s the best way to clean a pool?”

Around here, it really comes down to handling a few things consistently — our sun, our pollen, our debris, and our backyard environment all put extra pressure on the water.

Here’s a simple, behind-the-scenes look at the approach we use at Happy Frog Pools. Other pros may do things differently, but this is the method that’s served our Spring–Houston customers well.

1. Brushing Isn’t Optional

No matter who’s cleaning the pool, brushing is one of the most important steps.

We brush:

• Walls

• Steps

• Ledges

• Tile

• Behind ladders

It keeps algae from taking hold, especially in our heat. Whether a homeowner or a pro is doing it, brushing consistently is one of the best things you can do.

2. Using the Right Chlorine Helps More Than People Think

We mainly use liquid chlorine and salt systems because they keep water clean without driving CYA too high.

In our sunbelt climate, CYA creep is a common issue. Once CYA climbs, chlorine stops holding the way people expect — and that’s when cloudy water and algae start showing up.

Keeping CYA around 30–50 ppm makes everything easier.

3. Reliable Testing Makes a Big Difference

Strips are convenient, but for accuracy we stick with drop tests.

A good test routine usually checks:

• Free Chlorine

• pH

• CYA

• TA

• CH

In Spring–Houston heat, water balance changes quickly. Accurate testing helps catch small shifts before they turn into algae or irritation issues.

4. Staying Ahead of Debris Keeps Everything Cleaner

Our area gets a lot of leaves, pollen, and storm debris. The more that falls in, the more chlorine gets used up.

A solid cleaning routine includes:

• Skimming

• Vacuuming

• Clearing skimmer and pump baskets

• Checking filter pressure

• Cleaning filters when PSI rises

It doesn’t have to be complicated — just consistent.

5. Helping Wildlife Out Helps Keep Water Cleaner

A small critter ramp or escape device goes a long way.

It keeps frogs, lizards, and other little animals from getting trapped, and it keeps the pool and baskets cleaner. We include one by default because it’s simple and effective.

6. Managing the Whole Backyard Matters

One thing we do that helps a lot of households is combining pool cleaning with pet-waste removal.

Less yard contamination means:

• Less bacteria near the water

• Less runoff into the pool during rain

• Fewer organics blowing in

It’s not something every company offers, but it’s genuinely helpful in busy households with pets.

7. Treating the Pool Like a System Works Better Than Treating It Like a Chore

A clean pool isn’t just chemistry or just cleaning — it’s the combination of:

• Circulation

• Filtration

• Water balance

• Brushing

• Debris control

• Sun exposure

• Backyard environment

Any company or homeowner who pays attention to these pieces will usually get good, clear water.

We simply follow a steady routine that fits our area’s conditions.

Want a Little Help Keeping Your Pool Consistent?

If you’d rather have someone handle the weekly brushing, balancing, skimming, vacuuming, and pet-waste pickup, we can take it off your plate.

Happy Frog Pools includes:

• Weekly cleaning

• Balanced, safe chemistry

• Pool + pet-waste combo in one visit

• A free critter escape ramp

If that would make life easier, we’re here — no pressure, just reliable service when you need it.