How to get your pool summer ready!
The unmistakable signs of summer are here in Australia - longer days, warmer weather, and the delightful sound of laughter as kids eagerly anticipate their favourite seasonal activity: splashing into the pool!
But before you let the good times roll, it’s essential to ensure your pool is in tip-top shape for the upcoming season. Preparing your pool for summer isn’t just about cleanliness, it’s about creating a safe and inviting space for everyone to enjoy. In this guide, we’ll take you through the essential steps to get your pool summer ready. Whether your a seasoned pool owner, or just starting your aquatic adventure, these simple yet crucial measures will ensure your pool sparkles with crystal-clear waters and becomes the backdrop for countless memorable moments!
Check the pool water levels
If you haven’t used your pool in a while, you may not have noticed the water level might have dropped. If the water level is below the skimmer box, you run the risk of running your pump dry. Set a reminder to check the water levels periodically and top up if necessary.
Test the water’s chemical balance and clean the pool
A water test will provide you with an in-depth analysis of the exact chemicals needed to bring your pool up to scratch. Simply bring a sample into your local pool shop for testing. Collect the sample from about an arm’s length under the water surface and aim to have the water tested within a few hours.
You may find you need to add in some extra chlorine, salt, algaecide and stabiliser to balance the water again.
Once you have dosed the pool, clean out any leaves and debris and use the brush to scrub the side and bottom of the pool. Regular brushing helps prevent algae growth, removes dirt and keeps the pool surface smooth. Have the pump running to increase circulation so that the debris is pulled into the filter and be sure to clear out the skimmer box as well. As a final step, vacuum the pool to remove any remaining leaves and debris.
Check your pool equipment
Your filtration equipment need to be in good working order in order to maintain a healthy environment so be sure to check everything is running well. Check the pump is in good working order and water is flowing through the filter. Check the pressure on the sand filter and if it’s high and the water flow coming out of the jets is low, it might need backwashing. If the salt chlorinator is covered in scale build up, clean it with cell cleaner or a hydrochloric acid mix.
Adjust the run time of your filtration cycles
You may have reduced the running time of your pump or reduced the chlorine output of your chlorinator, so an important step to remember is to increase these again for the warmer months!
You will need to increase the running time in order to filter the pool appropriately and ensure the chemicals and sanitiser is properly mixed and dispensed. Typically a pool will run for around 8-10 hours in summer, depending on the power of your pump, the size of your pool and the type of sanitising system you are using.
After increasing the pump’s running time, get your water tested to check your chlorine levels, and increase the output if necessary.
As mentioned above, you may also need to add more salt to reach the required operating level and ensure that the chlorinator can produce appropriate chlorine levels.
Perform a safety check
With increased usage of summer months, it’s important to check all safety features are still present and in good working order. Double check the pool gate latch and the safety barrier, make sure toys and accessories are stored correctly and out of view, check the safe storage of pool chemicals and make sure they are stored outside of the pool zone.
By following these essential steps, from water testing and chemical balancing to equipment checks and safety inspections, you'll ensure that your pool is not only clean and clear but also safe for everyone to enjoy.
If you ever have any questions or need assistance along the way, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to help you make the most of your pool experience. Plus, we offer convenient in-store water testing services. Just bring a water sample to us, and we'll ensure your pool water is perfectly balanced for a season of enjoyment.
Cheers to your summer-ready pool and the incredible times ahead!
