Protecting Abandoned Pools from Mosquitoes

Abandoned pools are not only an eyesore but also pose a significant health risk due to their potential to become breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are not just annoying; they can transmit serious diseases such as malaria, West Nile virus, dengue fever, and Zika virus. Mosquito Squad has partnered with America's Swimming Pool Company to explore effective measures to protect abandoned pools from mosquitoes and safeguard public health.

Drain the Pool Completely

The first and most crucial step is to drain the abandoned pool completely. Mosquitoes require stagnant water to lay their eggs and reproduce. By eliminating standing water, you remove their breeding habitat.

Regular Maintenance

If draining the pool is not feasible, regular maintenance is essential. Treat the water with larvicides or insect growth regulators (IGRs) specifically designed for mosquito control. These products can inhibit the development of mosquito larvae and significantly reduce the mosquito population.

To successfully address a pool infestation, follow these steps:

1. Manually Vacuum Up Debris: After skimming, use a vacuum to remove sediment and eliminate potential egg infestation.
2. Brush Off Walls and Floor to Loosen Algae: Combat algae and insect issues by scrubbing the pool's walls and floor with an algae brush. This facilitates easier algae removal.

Remember to brush every inch of the pool, as algae may not always be visible.

3. Test Water & Adjust Chemical Balance If Needed: Maintaining chemical balance is crucial for pool health. Test your water and make necessary adjustments. Here are the recommended levels:

• Chlorine: 1.0-3.0 PPM (parts per million)
• pH: 7.2-7.8
• Total Alkalinity: 80-120 PPM
• Calcium Hardness: 200-400 PPM

4. Double or Triple Shock the Pool: Shocking the pool involves increasing chlorine levels to eliminate algae, bacteria, and bugs. Calcium hypochlorite is recommended but be aware that different types of shock are available for varying algae growths.

Maintaining clean and balanced water in your pool, along with regular water circulation, is crucial to prevent mosquitoes from inhabiting. Develop and adhere to a pool maintenance schedule to ensure a clean, clear, and pest-free pool environment.

Secure Pool Covers

Cover the pool with a tight-fitting pool cover to prevent mosquitoes from accessing the water. Ensure there are no gaps or openings that could allow mosquitoes to enter. Properly securing the cover will deny mosquitoes an opportunity to lay eggs in the pool.

Utilize Mosquito Dunks

In areas where water accumulates or remains, such as corners or low spots, consider using mosquito dunks. These contain a harmless bacteria called Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) that specifically targets mosquito larvae. Mosquito dunks can effectively control mosquito populations and prevent them from reaching maturity.

Conduct Regular Inspections

Frequently inspect the pool area and the surrounding premises for any signs of water accumulation. Rainwater collecting in buckets, plant saucers, or other containers can become breeding sites for mosquitoes. Promptly empty or remove these items to eliminate potential mosquito breeding grounds.

Maintain the Surrounding Environment

Take measures to maintain the surrounding area to minimize mosquito habitats. Trim back overgrown vegetation, remove debris, and dispose of any items that can collect water. By eliminating these potential breeding sites, you create a less hospitable environment for mosquitoes.

Call the Professionals

Protecting abandoned pools from mosquitoes is vital to prevent the spread of mosquito-borne diseases and ensure the well-being of the community. America’s Swimming Pool Company provides thorough pool inspections from trusted professionals. They can determine any potential issues, while the folks at Mosquito Squad know mosquito control is a continuous effort. It requires ongoing vigilance to keep abandoned pools free from disease-carrying pests.