Ants are attracted to water sources like cats to catnip: they just can’t stay away. This affinity for having water nearby makes ants a real nuisance when you’re trying to enjoy your summer days out by the pool. They build colonies as close to the water as they can, then they go off and get into every nook and cranny of your pool, leaving damage in their wake and leaving their bodies all floating in your formerly pristine pool.
The Damage They Can Do
Ants can damage your pool in a multitude of ways, the least of which is the constant pollution of dead or dying ants that end up floating in your pool. Far worse are the damages they can do to your filter, filter pump, and pool lining. Fire ants especially love being near electricity, so they are most likely to head for your filter. They can clog your filter with soil to build their colony’s nest. This soil can create unnecessary contact with moisture for sensitive metal parts and create corrosion. Dead ant bodies can stop the filter pump, and they can also throw off your pump by chewing on wires and accidentally throwing the starter switch.
All ants will do what they must to get water during times of duress, so it makes sense that they would go after the lining of your pool when given the chance. Depending on the severity of your infestation, you can end up having a huge problem on your hands, to the point where you may need to replace your lining all together.
Ways to Remove Them
There are many different options for removing the ants from your pool, but your best, most reliable option is to bring out an exterminator. They can treat the perimeter of your pool with an effective and long-lasting pesticide to keep ants away. If your lining has been damaged to the point of needing replacement, you can also have the pest control company put down pesticides before your new liner is installed to keep ants from attacking the replacement liner.
There are hundreds of DIY ant removal suggestions on pool forums, but most of them require that children and pets stay away from your pool while they are in use. If children and pets are not an issue, both borax and dia
What Now?
Your infestation may have caused some damage that you may or may not be able to see. Ants may have eaten most of your filter, or they may have left imperceptible cracks in your pool lining that will eventually turn into a major leak. If there is obvious damage, you will need to have that part repaired or replaced by a qualified pool maintenance company. If you can’t see damage, you’re not in the clear! The only way to be able to know for sure whether your pool escaped unscathed is to bring out an experienced pool maintenance company. The certified pool mechanic will be able to test your pool for the invisible damage that can end up costing you, and they will be able to repair any weaknesses or damage they discover.
