Once you have set up your swimming pool, you need a number of essential supplies to make it look beautiful and function smoothly. Some of the supplies that you use merely add to beauty and convenience, while others are necessary to keep the pool clean and functioning well.

Some of the most common swimming pool supplies include:

* Vacuum pumps

* Cleaners

* Filters and cartridges

* Bristle brush

* Garden hose

* Skimmers

* Ionizers

* Testing kits

* Pool Liners

* Lighting (optional)

* Pool heaters (optional)

* Thermometers (optional)

* Pool covers (optional)

A good filter system is essential for a clean swimming pool. The most common kinds of filters include Diatomaceous Earth Filter, Sand Filter and Cartridge Filter. Cartridge filter is generally used in smaller pools. When dirty, you just need to pull the cartridge and wash it clean with a hose.

Vacuum pumps, bristle brush, skimmers, hose and cleaners help keep the pool clean. They take care of larger pieces of debris.

How often you clean the pool depends on how frequently the pool is used and by how many people. To rid your pool of microscopic organisms, you need to use Ionizers and chemical purifiers. Ionizers release ions into the pool. These kill algae, bacteria and harmful organisms. Thus they reduce the amount of chemicals you need to use in the pool water.

Chemicals like Chlorine, Acids and water clarifiers are added to pool water to keep it germ-free. Chlorine and Bromine kill algae, bugs and other plant life in the swimming pool. Bromine is most commonly used in indoor pools.

NOTE: Before adding any kind of chemicals into water, it is recommended that you speak with an expert and find out exactly what kinds of chemicals you have to use. Always handle chemicals with gloves.

Testing kits play an important part in pool maintenance and safety. You can test the pH level of the water using the kit. You can also check if the chemicals in the water are within recommended levels.

Pool covers and safety covers keep the pool clean and safe. They are mandatory in public pools. Though they are not essential in private pools, experts recommend the use of one.

Proper heating and lighting give your pool its individual character and make it more enjoyable. You can use a thermometer to ascertain the optimum temperature of the water.