Pools and Spas
Before you pack away the floaties and pool noodles for autumn, it's crucial to keep up with your pool maintenance routine. Here's how.
As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, many Aussie homeowners start using their pools less. But before you pack away the floaties and pool noodles, it's crucial to keep up with your pool maintenance routine. Autumn is the perfect time to prepare your pool for the cooler months ahead, ensuring it stays clean, balanced, and easy to reopen when the warmer weather returns.
Here’s how to keep your pool in top condition this fall—and when to call in a pro to do the heavy lifting.
1. Keep the Pool Clean
Autumn leaves may look stunning, but they’re a real headache for pool owners. If left unchecked, leaves and debris can clog filters, stain surfaces, and create the perfect breeding ground for algae.
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Skim daily to remove leaves before they sink.
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Vacuum the pool weekly to catch any stubborn debris.
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Clean out skimmer baskets and pool pumps regularly to keep water circulation optimal.
If you’re short on time or patience, hiring a pool cleaner from ServiceSeeking.com.au can save you a heap of effort. They’ll ensure your pool is spotless while you enjoy your autumn weekends.
2. Adjust Filtration Times
With less heat and fewer swimmers in the pool, you don’t need your pump running as long as you would in summer. However, cutting back too much can lead to poor circulation and murky water.
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Reduce filtration to 4-6 hours a day instead of the peak summer 8-12 hours.
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Run the pump during the warmest part of the day to prevent algae growth.
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Check filters regularly and backwash or clean them as needed.
If your pool water starts looking cloudy or green despite these efforts, it might be time to bring in a pool technician for a professional assessment.
3. Balance Pool Chemicals
With the changing temperatures, maintaining the right chemical balance is key to keeping your pool water safe and clear.
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Test your water weekly to ensure chlorine, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels are within the correct range.
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Reduce chlorine levels slightly since the sun isn’t burning it off as quickly.
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Shock the pool at least once a month to prevent bacteria and algae buildup.
4. Monitor Your pH Levels
pH levels can fluctuate in autumn, especially with rain and falling debris affecting the water’s balance. Keeping your pH between 7.2 and 7.6 helps prevent corrosion, scale buildup, and cloudy water.
If you're unsure how to maintain your pH levels, check out our detailed guide on pool water balance. And if it’s all too much hassle, a professional pool technician can test and adjust the levels for you.
5. Protect Your Pool with a Cover
A pool cover is a simple yet effective way to cut down on maintenance. It prevents leaves and dirt from getting in, reduces water evaporation, and even helps maintain water temperature.
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Choose a fitted cover to prevent wind from blowing debris underneath.
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Use a solar cover if you want to retain some warmth for occasional dips.
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Ensure it’s secure to keep out pets, wildlife, and young children.
If you don’t have a cover yet or need help installing one, a local tradie can sort it out in no time.
6. Check Your Pool Equipment
Autumn is a great time to give your pool equipment a once-over before winter arrives. A few key things to check:
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Inspect your pump and filter for wear and tear.
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Check for leaks in pipes and connections.
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Lubricate O-rings and seals to keep them in good condition.
A licensed pool technician can help with any necessary repairs or replacements, ensuring everything runs smoothly when summer returns.
7. Plan for Winterisation (If Needed)
If you’re not planning on using your pool over winter, consider winterising it to make reopening a breeze.
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Lower the water level slightly to prevent overflow from rain.
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Add an algaecide to prevent growth during the colder months.
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Switch to winter-mode filtration (if available) to keep the system running efficiently with minimal energy use.
A professional can help with winterisation, ensuring your pool stays in top condition while you take a well-earned maintenance break.
Need a Hand with Your Pool? Let the Pros Handle It!
Pool maintenance can be a time-consuming job, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you need a deep clean, chemical balancing, equipment repairs, or winter prep, you can find a trusted pool technician on ServiceSeeking.com.au. Compare quotes from local experts and let someone else do the hard work while you enjoy autumn stress-free.
Ready to keep your pool in top shape? Get a quote today!
