Keeping Your Pool Clean Without Breaking the Bank

Owning a pool is a dream for many Kiwi homeowners, but maintaining it can feel expensive. The good news is that keeping your pool clean and safe doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With a little planning, some DIY solutions, and smart shopping, you can enjoy crystal-clear water while sticking to a budget.

1. Regular Maintenance Saves Money

One of the best ways to save money on pool care is to stay on top of regular maintenance. Letting problems build up will only lead to expensive fixes later on. Make a habit of:

• Skimming daily – Removing leaves and debris prevents them from sinking and affecting water quality.
• Brushing weekly – Scrub the pool walls and floor to stop algae growth and keep surfaces clean.
• Running the pump efficiently – Running it for 6-8 hours a day (or less in cooler months) is usually enough to keep water circulating without overloading your power bill.

2. Shop Smart for Pool Chemicals

Pool chemicals can be a big expense, but there are ways to keep costs down:

• Buy in bulk – Retailers like Bunnings NZ and Mitre 10 often have good deals on chlorine and pool chemicals. Buying larger quantities can save money in the long run.
• Use generic brands – Big-name pool chemical brands charge premium prices, but generic alternatives often work just as well.
• Test your water regularly – Using a basic test kit from Pool & Spa Warehouse NZ helps prevent overuse of chemicals, ensuring you’re only adding what’s truly necessary.

3. Cut Down on Water and Chemical Costs

Reducing evaporation and unnecessary water loss helps lower both water and chemical expenses. You can:

• Use a pool cover – This reduces evaporation, meaning you won’t have to top up your pool as often or use extra chemicals. Para Pools NZ offers a great selection of budget-friendly covers.
• Check for leaks – Even a small leak can mean constantly refilling your pool, leading to higher water and chemical costs. Fix leaks early to avoid bigger problems down the track.
• Be mindful of splash-out – Encourage kids (and adults) to avoid excessive splashing to maintain water levels for longer.

4. DIY Cleaning Tools and Hacks

Pool cleaning equipment can be expensive, but there are plenty of DIY alternatives to keep things budget-friendly:

• Use a pantyhose filter – Placing an old pair of pantyhose over your skimmer basket can help trap finer debris and reduce the load on your pump.
• Make your own pool vacuum – Instead of buying an expensive robotic cleaner, use a basic vacuum head, telescopic pole, and garden hose to manually clean dirt from the bottom of the pool.
• Try baking soda for cleaning – Instead of buying pricey pool tile cleaners, a box of baking soda from Countdown works wonders for scrubbing pool tiles and grout.

5. Invest in Energy-Efficient Equipment

Although the upfront cost may be higher, investing in energy-efficient tools can save money in the long run:

• Use a solar pool cover – This not only reduces evaporation but also warms your pool naturally, cutting down on the need for expensive heating.
• Switch to a variable-speed pump – A variable-speed pump uses less energy than a standard one, potentially saving hundreds of dollars a year on electricity. Check out options from The Warehouse or Trade Me for budget-friendly deals.

6. Keep Algae Away Naturally

Algae growth can quickly lead to expensive chemical treatments. Keep it at bay with these cost-effective tips:

• Use household ingredients – Some Kiwi pool owners swear by using a small dose of liquid chlorine from Supercheap Auto NZ instead of expensive branded algaecides.
• Keep your pool covered – Blocking sunlight limits algae growth, reducing the need for additional treatments.
• Improve circulation – A pool that has proper water flow is less likely to develop algae. Check that your return jets are angled correctly to circulate water evenly.

Enjoy Your Pool Without Overspending

By keeping up with regular maintenance, shopping smart for chemicals, and using DIY tricks, you can have a sparkling pool without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re looking for affordable pool cleaning gear, energy-saving equipment, or simple hacks to cut costs, there are plenty of ways to maintain your pool on a budget.

Happy swimming! 🌊