Pool maintenance during winter

Although the swimming pool becomes a display model for the outdoor area during Winter, it’s important to remember that to ensure it’s ready for Summer, you maintain it during the cooler temperatures.

There are a number of steps you can take to prepare the pool for when it's not in use that could save you repair costs and water wastage down the track.

Basic swimming pool maintenance tips

"Don't simply turn the filter off and forget about your pool for three or four months," says Mark Ellison, from Swimart pool and spa suppliers in Jindalee. "The time, effort and money needed to get the pool water correctly adjusted next season will be far more than the little needed to maintain it during winter."

Most swimming pool and equipment companies provide a water-testing service that owners should take advantage of at all times of the year. It is especially important to have this done just before putting the pool to rest for autumn and winter.

Testing the pool water

Making sure the pH, chlorine and alkalinity levels are right will help preserve the water's freshness, while a long-life algaecide is the best way to stave off nasty algae during down time.

"If your swimming pool water is neglected and turns green, it may be necessary to drain your pool and refill it," explains Mark. "Under Stage 3 water restrictions, you cannot use the town water supply to do this, and have to have new water trucked in. This will cost you thousands."

Beat pool algae with a good interior clean

Giving the pool interior a thorough scrub down is also a good way to guard against the build-up of algae. Make sure the skimmer box and lint filters are clean, and continue to check these over the winter months. Also ensure the filter is as clean as possible to avoid hardening of build-up.

Use a swimming pool blanket

It's a good idea to cover the pool when it's not being used. This will protect against water loss and evaporation as well as debris and dust. But covers may also trap and harbour growing fungus, so Mark suggests letting the water breathe a little each day.

Once the pool blanket has been rolled back, run the filter for a few hours. He also suggests running some of the other equipment to make sure it's all going smoothly.

Maintain pool lighting

"Turn on the pool lights for 30 minutes at least weekly to prevent a build-up of moisture within the light and wiring. I also suggest you check the water level occasionally, to ensure it is halfway up the skimmer-box opening," says Mark.

Contact pool equipment suppliers in your area to find out more about swimming pool maintenance during winter: