Top tips for getting your swimming pool ready for summer

“Healthy pool water is not only for the enjoyment of swimming, but it will also prolong the life of your pool equipment.

Spring is the perfect time to start getting your swimming pool ready for summer, so we’ve prepared a checklist to help you ensure your pool is ready for a long hot Kiwi summer spent poolside.

Remove and clean your cover

If your pool has been covered over the winter months, now is a good time to clear all the debris, pollen and standing water before removing the cover. Use a pool cover pump or similar vac to clean the cover – this will ensure it doesn’t all fall into the pool when you pull the cover back. Once you’ve removed the cover give it a good clean with mild detergent, cold water and a soft brush or use this Bio Pool Cover Cleaner from Daisy which will also protect your cover from build-up.

Clean and vacuum your pool

Fish out your net and scoop up any surface debris before running your robotic pool cleaner. Run a full clean and make sure your robot is cleaned out afterwards ready for the next vacuum. Scrub the waterline – we find the White Magic erasers available from Mitre 10 are perfect for this job without damaging the pool surface.

Check and clean all pool equipment

Now is the time to make sure all your equipment is running efficiently and ready for a busy summer. Check your cartridge, swap it for a clean spare and inspect for any damage. If you have a media filter, change the media if needed. Inspect all O-rings and make sure there is no damage or cracks. Check chlorinator, pump, heating are all working. Give your pump shed a good clean.

Fill your pool then test and balance your pool water

Check your pool water level - it should be in the middle of the skimmer opening. If it is lower, then top up the pool. Once it is at the right level and your pump and filtration systems have been running for at least 24 - 48 hours (if they’ve been off over winter), then it’s time to test and balance the water to ensure it’s safe and healthy.

Using a pool testing kit, check the pH, chlorine, alkalinity and calcium levels and adjust the levels as needed. You may also ‘shock’ the pool (add a high dose of chlorine) to kill any bacteria or algae that may be lurking after the winter months.

Once the water is crystal-clear and you can easily see the bottom of the pool it is time to dive in and enjoy!

Need some help?

If water testing and pool cleaning just isn’t your thing (and we get it - you put a pool in to relax poolside with a good book and your brand new bathers, not a lab coat!), we’ve got you. Our team will ensure your pool water and equipment is always in top condition with our Pool Care Programme. We can also supply pool chemicals and parts. Contact us today for pricing and pool care options.