Tess Langfus, Contributing Writer

Maintaining the pH balance of your pool water is the key to algae- and bacteria-free water.

The type of product used for your pool is a personal choice and is no longer limited to a chlorine-based system, which is still the most widely used among pool owners. There are other sanitizing options available, such as the ECOsmarte product, a chemical-free ionization system that uses oxygen, copper, and titanium platinum instead of chlorine to purify the water. Nature2 and Frog systems both use mineral purifiers to reduce the amount of chemicals in the pool.

Check with your pool builder for information on alternative sanitizers and mineral purification systems. Each system has its own specifications on the amount of care needed to maintain a healthy pool.

On the average, the monthly cost for maintaining a pool, which includes cleaning and heating the water, can run around $200 to $300, depending on the weather and how well the pool is kept covered. Rain and excessive hot or cold weather can affect both the pH balance and the temperature of the pool's water, but a pool cover will help control both the quality of the water and its temperature.

More On Pools:

• Is A Pool Right For You?
• Choosing A Pool
• Working With Contractors
• Be Aware Of Extra Expenses
• Where Should The Pool Go?
• Questions To Ask