The Texas heat means pool parties, but caring for a pool is not an easy task. It can be frustrating to finally get your pool set up for the summer, only to see it quickly fill with mosquitoes, bees, beetles, and other bugs.
Texas is home to numerous species of bugs, so it’s not uncommon to see a few bugs hanging out here and there. However, suddenly seeing a bunch of bugs in the water could mean a bigger issue, such as problems with water chemistry.
It’s summertime, so you should be outside relaxing, not stressing over insects infiltrating your pool. Stride Pest Control can assist you with your pest woes. In the meantime, here are some things you can do to keep your water sparkling and free of bugs.
Getting Pests Out of Your Pool
Once you see bugs in your pool, you’ll want to get them out as soon as possible. But first, you’ll want to identify the issue. Some bugs feed off of other pests. Some prefer algae, so if you see bugs in your pool suddenly, you could have an algae problem that you need to tend to.
Leaving insects in the water can lead to additional debris, making your pool even harder to keep clean. Here are some tips for cleanliness:
- Skim them out. Every pool owner has a skimmer. Use it to scoop up insects you see floating on the water. You can also kill the bugs before skimming them out by using dish soap. Yes, you can add dish soap to your pool, but keep it minimal. Limit the soap to ⅛ cup per 10,000 gallons of water and then let the water sit for at least a day. This will kill the bugs so you can skim them more easily. Just keep in mind that if you put in too much soap, the water will get sudsy, which is what you want to avoid.
- Use a vacuum. Use your vacuum across the entire pool to remove any lingering debris. This will also remove any eggs, which could lead to a new infestation.
- Get rid of algae. Some types of bugs, such as water boatmen and backswimmers, are attracted to algae. If you have these bugs in your pool, then you need to do some deep cleaning. Use an algae brush to scrub the floor and walls of your swimming pool. This will loosen it up and make it easier to remove.
- Add algaecide. If you do have an algae problem, nip it in the bud by using algaecide. The chemicals in algaecide work to eliminate algae for good. Just be sure to find the right algaecide for the type of algae growing in your pool and follow the instructions on the packaging.
- Shock the pool. Shocking a pool involves increasing the chlorine levels to kill bugs, bacteria, and algae. Calcium hypochlorite is one of the most effective options, but keep in mind that there are different types of shock for different algae growths.
How to Keep Out Bugs for Good
If you don’t have a bug problem in your pool at the moment, you want to keep it that way. Be proactive and use some preventive measures. Here are some tips for keeping bugs out in the long term:
- Cover the pool. Use a pool cover when the pool is not in use. This helps keep out not only insects but also frogs and other small animals.
- Regular skimming. Use a pool skimmer to remove debris and insects from the water surface daily.
- Clean filters. Clean the pool filters regularly to ensure they are functioning properly and trapping pests.
- Maintain water chemistry. Keep the pool water properly balanced with the right levels of chlorine, pH, and alkalinity. This discourages the growth of algae and bacteria, which can attract pests.
- Maintain cleanliness. Regularly clean the pool and the surrounding area. Remove debris, leaves, and other organic matter that can attract pests.
- Keep pool lights off. While your pool’s lighting looks cool at night, the brightness attracts all kinds of bugs. Try to keep the lights off as much as possible at night to avoid inviting in more pests.
- Landscape around the pool. Trim bushes and trees around the pool area. Keep your lawn mowed. This reduces the chances of pests using them as a bridge to get into the pool. You can also use pest-repellent plants like lavender, marigolds, and mint around the pool area.
- Eliminate standing water. Ensure there is no standing water around the pool area, as it can attract mosquitoes and other insects.
- Seal entry points. Seal any cracks or gaps in the pool deck or surrounding area where pests could enter.
- Try a bug misting system. Keep bugs away from the pool by installing a misting system in your yard. These pest control devices spray a continuous stream of bug repellent based on a set timer or an automatic sensor. This will keep insects out of your pool area.
- Use mesh screens. Another effective option is to have your outdoor pool enclosed with mesh screens. A mesh screen safeguards the area with a physical barrier. The main downside is the aesthetics, as homeowners find screens to be unsightly. However, screens are one of the best ways to keep bugs out so you can enjoy your pool.
- Use insect traps. Use insect traps or zappers around the pool area to reduce the number of flying insects.
- Consider natural repellents. Use natural repellents like citronella candles or essential oils, such as eucalyptus and peppermint, around the pool area.
Contact Us Today
Bugs are annoying creatures that can get into your pool and quickly ruin a pool party or relaxing day outdoors. Learn how to get rid of bugs for good so you can enjoy your pool with less stress.
Pests can be hard to control on our own. Get professional help from the experienced and friendly team at Stride Pest Control. Need help? We’ll be there within 24 hours. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation today. Call (512) 777-1339 (Austin) or (512) 254-8185 (Round Rock) or fill out the online form.
