Keeping your pool water clear without relying on harsh chemicals isn’t just possible—it’s actually pretty simple if you stay on top of a few key things. Whether you’ve got a backyard pool in Auckland, Christchurch, or anywhere in between, here’s what you need to focus on to keep your water looking great the natural way.

Keep the Water Moving

Stagnant water is your worst enemy. If your pool pump isn’t running enough, algae and bacteria start setting up shop. Run your pump at least 6–8 hours a day to keep everything circulating. If you’ve got a variable-speed pump, even better—set it to a lower speed to save power while still keeping things moving. If you’re not sure how long to run it, check with a local expert like Pumps & Filters.

Keep Your Pool Filter Clean

Your pool filter does a lot of the hard work. If it’s clogged, water won’t filter properly, and things will go downhill fast. Clean your filter every week by backwashing (if you’ve got a sand filter) or rinsing off your cartridge filter. If your filter needs replacing, check out Mainland Pool & Spa for parts.

Use Natural Pool Enzymes

Instead of dumping more chemicals into the pool, natural enzymes break down organic debris (like sunscreen, body oils, and leaves). They help keep the water clear without clogging up your filter. Look for products at Kiwi retailers like Pool & Spa Warehouse NZ.

Add Some Baking Soda

Baking soda helps maintain the right pH and alkalinity levels, stopping algae from getting out of control. Add about 500 grams per 10,000 litres of water, stir it around, and let the pump do the rest. You can grab bulk baking soda from Bin Inn at a good price.

Try a UV or Ozone System

If you’re after a long-term chemical-free solution, UV light and ozone systems zap bacteria and algae without the need for chlorine. They aren’t cheap to install but save you money in the long run by cutting down on chemical use. Places like The Swim Centre can help you set up one of these systems.

Skim and Brush Regularly

A few minutes a day with a net and brush will save you a whole lot of hassle. Skimming removes leaves and debris before they sink and start breaking down, while brushing the walls stops algae from setting up home.

Use a Pool Cover

A cover does more than just keep kids safe—it also blocks out sunlight, which algae love. Plus, it stops leaves, dirt, and pollen from getting into the water. If you don’t have one, check out The Cover Company for options.

Go All-In on Plants and Shade

If you’ve got plants or trees nearby, position them strategically to provide shade. Less direct sunlight means less algae growth. Just make sure you’re not planting anything that sheds a ton of leaves into the pool.

Keep an Eye on Water Chemistry

Even though you’re going natural, checking pH and alkalinity levels every week helps you keep everything balanced. Ideal pH sits between 7.2–7.8, and alkalinity should be around 80–120 ppm. Testing kits are cheap and super easy to use—places like Mitre 10 have them.

Shock the Pool with Hydrogen Peroxide

If things start looking a bit green, food-grade hydrogen peroxide can help. It reacts with the water to break down algae without leaving behind nasty chemicals. You can find high-strength hydrogen peroxide at stores like HealthPost.

Conclusion

You don’t need to rely on chemicals to keep your pool clear. Stay on top of circulation, skim daily, use natural treatments, and keep an eye on your pool’s chemistry. A few simple habits will keep your pool looking great all summer long—naturally.