Swimming pools are one of the best parts of living in Australia. Whether you’re splashing around in the summer heat or enjoying a peaceful view in winter, a clean pool makes all the difference. But with the changing seasons, cleaning the swimming pool needs more than just scooping out leaves.
This guide will walk you through how to clean a pool in Australia—step by step—adjusted for every season. Whether you’re a new pool owner or someone who’s tired of guessing, this article is for you.
Summer Pool Cleaning: High Use, High Maintenance
1. Skim the Surface Daily
Summer means more swimming, which also means more dirt, sunscreen, and debris. Use a skimmer net to remove floating leaves, insects, and any other debris daily. It helps stop buildup before it sinks.
2. Brush the Walls and Floor Weekly
Brushing the pool sides and bottom prevents algae and stains. Use a nylon-bristle brush for concrete pools and a softer one for vinyl or fiberglass.
3. Vacuum Twice a Week
Manual or robotic pool vacuums help clean up the dirt and debris that sinks. This keeps the water clear and reduces pressure on your pool filter.
4. Check and Balance Water Chemistry
Check pH, chlorine, alkalinity, and calcium levels at least twice a week. In summer, pool water evaporates faster, which changes the chemical balance.
1. pH: 7.2 – 7.6
2. Free Chlorine: 1 – 3 ppm
3. Alkalinity: 80 – 120 ppm
5. Run the Filter Longer
Because of higher pool usage, run your pool filter for 8–10 hours daily in summer. Clean the filter cartridges or backwash sand filters weekly.
Autumn Pool Cleaning: Preparing for Cooler Days
Leaves, pollen, and cooler evenings bring new cleaning challenges.
1. Use a Pool Cover When Not in Use
As trees start to shed, using a pool cover reduces the mess. It also keeps your water warmer and chemical levels balanced longer.
2. Clear Skimmer and Pump Baskets
Check baskets twice a week. Fallen leaves can clog them quickly in autumn.
3. Lower Water Temperature Means Less Chlorine Use
Since algae grows slower in cooler water, you can reduce chlorine levels slightly, but still maintain hygiene.
4. Continue Weekly Brushing and Vacuuming
Don’t skip vacuuming just because swimming reduces. Algae and dirt can still build up and get worse by winter.
5. Check Water Levels
If rainfall increases in your area, keep an eye on water levels. Drain any excess to avoid overflowing.
Winter Pool Cleaning: Low Use, But Not No Use
Some Aussies cover their pools entirely in winter. Others keep it running. Either way, basic cleaning is still necessary.
1. Reduce Filtration Time
Cut filter run time to 4–6 hours daily, depending on water clarity. If the pool is covered and unused, run it every few days.
2. Clean After Storms
Winter storms can blow debris and dust into your pool. After heavy rain or winds, skim, vacuum, and rebalance your water chemistry.
3. Use a Winterising Chemical Kit
A winterising kit includes algaecide, scale inhibitors, and chlorine tablets. This keeps your pool clean and reduces algae risk during off-season.
4. Monitor Water Chemistry Monthly
You won’t need to test weekly, but check once every 3–4 weeks to ensure levels are stable. Cold water still needs balance to stay clean.
5. Keep Pool Covered or Fenced
Safety first. If your pool is not in use, a secured pool cover or fencing is important to prevent accidents and reduce dirt accumulation.
Spring Pool Cleaning: Getting Ready for the Swim Season
Spring means warmer days and time to prep your pool for summer fun.
1. Remove the Cover and Clean It
If you’ve used a pool cover in winter, remove it carefully and clean it. Allow it to dry before storing to prevent mould.
2. Shock the Pool
“Shocking” means adding a high dose of chlorine to kill bacteria and algae. Do this when reopening your pool for use.
3. Deep Clean
Brush the pool walls, vacuum thoroughly, and clean out skimmer baskets. A deep spring clean ensures fresh start for the swim season.
4. Refill Water if Needed
Evaporation and maintenance may have lowered your water level. Fill the pool back to halfway up the skimmer box.
5. Restart Filtration System Fully
Run the filter for at least 8 hours a day and monitor the water’s clarity. Replace or clean filters if clogged.
Essential Tools for Cleaning the Swimming Pool
1. Skimmer Net – For daily debris collection
2. Pool Brush – Prevents algae buildup
3. Vacuum (Manual or Robotic) – For thorough floor cleaning
4. Water Test Kit – pH and chlorine checking
5. Leaf Rake – For heavy-duty autumn leaf removal
6. Filter Cleaner – Keeps pump system running efficiently
Pro Tips for Aussie Pool Owners
1. Use Pool Alarms or Motion Sensors: In stormy or windy areas, they notify when debris enters.
2. Install a Pool Blanket Roller: Makes it easier to cover and uncover your pool.
3. Schedule Monthly Professional Service: Even with DIY cleaning, a monthly check by an expert helps keep long-term costs down.
4. Keep a Logbook: Track cleaning dates, chemical adjustments, and filter changes for better maintenance.
Cleaning the swimming pool might sound like a chore, but with a clear, seasonal routine, it becomes a simple part of home care. By understanding how to clean your pool in Australia—from summer heatwaves to winter storms—you ensure your pool stays beautiful, safe, and ready whenever you are.
Don’t wait for algae or dirty water to remind you. Stick to this seasonal guide and enjoy crystal-clear water all year round.