Owning a pool for the first time? Nice one! But here’s the thing—if you don’t stay on top of maintenance, that dream pool can quickly turn into a murky headache. Keeping it clean, balanced, and running properly doesn’t have to be a mission, though. Here’s what you need to know to keep your pool in top shape, without wasting time or money.
Keep Your Water Clean and Balanced
Let’s cut to the chase—dirty water equals a dirty pool. If you don’t keep the water balanced, you’ll end up with algae, cloudy water, or even damage to your pool equipment.
- Test your water regularly – At least once a week. Grab a test kit from Bunnings NZ or Pioneer Pool & Building Supplies and make sure your pH, chlorine, and alkalinity levels are all where they should be.
- Adjust chemicals as needed – If the pH is too high or too low, your chlorine won’t work properly. Aim for a pH of 7.2–7.6. Chlorine should be around 1–3 ppm.
- Shock your pool – Basically, this means adding a high dose of chlorine to kill off bacteria and algae. Do this every couple of weeks, especially after lots of swimming.
If you’re ever unsure, take a sample to a pool store like Pool & Spa Warehouse—they’ll test it for you and tell you exactly what your pool needs.
Skim, Brush, and Vacuum
Even with the right chemicals, your pool still needs physical cleaning.
- Skim daily – Leaves, bugs, and debris? Get them out before they sink to the bottom.
- Brush the sides and floor – Algae and dirt like to cling to surfaces. A quick scrub every few days stops buildup.
- Vacuum weekly – You can do this manually or invest in a robotic pool cleaner from somewhere like Para Rubber. They’re not cheap, but they save a heap of effort.
Keep Your Filter Running Smoothly
Your pool filter does the heavy lifting, keeping the water clear. But if it gets clogged, the whole system will struggle.
- Run the filter at least 8 hours a day – This keeps the water circulating and prevents stagnant spots where algae can grow.
- Backwash or clean the filter regularly – If you’ve got a sand filter, backwash it every few weeks. If you have a cartridge filter, give it a rinse often and a deep clean when needed.
Check out Waterco NZ for advice on filters and maintenance products.
Watch Out for Algae
Algae can turn your pool green overnight, and once it takes hold, it’s a mission to get rid of.
- Use an algaecide – Adding a preventive dose every few weeks helps stop algae before it starts.
- Check your chlorine levels – Low chlorine is an open invitation for algae to take over.
- Brush problem areas – Algae loves to hide in corners, steps, and shady spots. Scrub them well to stop growth.
If your pool does go green, don’t panic—follow a shock treatment, keep the filter running, and brush like your life depends on it. Auckland-based Pools & Spas has solid advice on dealing with algae outbreaks.
Keep an Eye on Water Levels
Your pool water naturally evaporates, especially in summer. But watch out—if the water gets too low, your pump could suck in air and get damaged.
- Top it up as needed – If it’s looking low, grab the hose and fill it back to the right level (about halfway up the skimmer box).
- Keep an eye on leaks – If you’re constantly losing water, you might have a leak. Check for wet patches around your pool and consider getting a professional to take a look.
Don’t Forget the Pool Cover
A good pool cover does more than just keep leaves out—it helps hold in heat, reduces evaporation, and can even cut down on chemical use.
- Use it whenever the pool isn’t in use – Especially at night or during colder months.
- Consider a solar cover – It’ll help heat your pool naturally (which is a bonus in New Zealand’s unpredictable weather).
You can find a solid range of covers at places like Spa & Pool Warehouse.
Stay on Top of Seasonal Maintenance
Pools need different care depending on the season.
- Summer – Test the water more often, as heat and frequent use can throw off the balance.
- Winter – Reduce pump run times and use a winterising chemical kit if you’re not planning to swim.
Check out Mayfair Pools for tips on winterising your pool if you’re shutting it down for the colder months.
Final Thoughts
Pool maintenance doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Keep on top of your water balance, clean regularly, run your filter properly, and you’ll enjoy a sparkling pool all season. If you’re ever stuck, local pool shops are your best friend—they’ll test your water and help you sort out any issues.
Now, grab your sunnies, dive in, and enjoy your pool!
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