Keeping Your Pool Clean Without Breaking the Bank
Having a pool is awesome—until you realise how much it costs to keep it clean and safe. Chemicals, energy bills, equipment… it all adds up. But here’s the good news: looking after your pool doesn’t have to drain your wallet.
Here’s how you can keep your pool in top shape without overspending.
Stick to a Simple Cleaning Routine
Cleaning your pool regularly stops expensive problems before they start. Leaves, insects, and other debris break down in the water, making it harder (and more expensive) to keep clean.
Here’s what you should do:
- Skim the surface daily – A quick 5-minute skim keeps your filter from working overtime.
- Vacuum weekly – Either manually or with an automatic pool cleaner. It stops algae and dirt from settling in.
- Brush the walls and floor – Once a week scrubbing prevents algae buildup, which can save you from spending extra money on chemicals.
If you don’t have time, robotic pool cleaners from places like Pool & Spa Warehouse NZ or Para Rubber can handle the job without you lifting a finger (except maybe to push a button).
Get Smart with Pool Chemicals
Pool chemicals can be pricey, but only if you’re using more than you need. The key is balance. If your water is properly balanced, you’ll use fewer chemicals overall.
Here’s what matters:
- Check your pH & chlorine levels – Aim for a pH of 7.2–7.8 and chlorine levels of 1–3 ppm. Too much or too little, and your chemicals won’t work properly, meaning you’ll have to spend more.
- Use stabiliser (cyanuric acid) – This keeps chlorine from evaporating too quickly—especially important in summer.
- Shock your pool when needed – If your water is looking cloudy or smelling funky, a shock treatment helps reset it without overloading on daily chlorine use.
You can get affordable pool chemical bundles from Pool & Spa Warehouse or check Mitre 10 for good deals on individual pool chemicals.
Use a Pool Cover – Seriously
A pool cover isn’t just about keeping bugs and leaves out. It cuts down evaporation, keeps the heat in (so you save on heating costs), and reduces how much chlorine you lose to the sun.
Think of it like putting a lid on your coffee—it stays hot longer and doesn’t evaporate. Same deal with your pool.
Basic covers aren’t too expensive, and you can find them at Bunnings or Para Rubber. If you want to get really fancy, automatic covers will make life even easier—but that’s more of an upfront investment.
Keep the Filter Running – But Not 24/7
Your pool filter doesn’t need to run all day. Around 6–8 hours a day in summer and less in winter is usually enough to keep the water clean. Running it less than that can lead to problems, but running it too much is just throwing money away on power.
Here’s a good timing trick:
- Run it during off-peak hours (if your power company charges different rates).
- Use a timer so you don’t forget to turn it on and off.
DIY Some Simple Pool Fixes
Instead of calling a pool technician for every little issue, learn to handle some minor fixes yourself.
- Got a small leak? Check your pump connections and seal any minor cracks with waterproof sealant instead of replacing the whole part.
- Pump not working right? Sometimes, it’s just a clogged basket. Clean it out before spending money on repairs.
- Cloudy water? Before buying expensive treatments, try adjusting your pool chemistry—it’s usually a balancing issue.
YouTube tutorials and pool care forums can help if you’re unsure. Or, just ask at your local Mitre 10 or Bunnings—they often have pool care experts around to give advice.
Buy in Bulk Where It Makes Sense
Pool chemicals, filter cartridges, and chlorine tablets are often cheaper in bulk. If you’ve got storage space, stock up when there’s a sale. Places like Pool & Spa Warehouse or Trade Me sometimes have discounts if you buy larger quantities.
Keep Parts in Good Shape
Replacing pool equipment is expensive, but regular maintenance can keep it running longer.
- Clean your filter regularly – A clogged filter makes your pump work harder (which costs more in power and shortens its life).
- Check for leaks in hoses and fittings – A tiny leak can waste litres of water a day, adding up over time.
- Lubricate O-rings and seals – This prevents wear and tear on your pump and other equipment. A little silicone lubricant can go a long way.
Most replacement parts and maintenance items can be found at Pool & Spa Warehouse or local hardware stores like Mitre 10.
The Bottom Line
Keeping your pool in good shape doesn’t have to be expensive. Stick to a routine, use chemicals efficiently, invest in a pool cover, and maintain your equipment. A little effort goes a long way—and saves you a lot of money in the long run.
Happy swimming!
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