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Living in Perth means enjoying lots of sunny days, outdoor fun, and relaxing by the pool. But keeping that pool
Australia’s swimming season may slow down in winter, but your pool still needs attention. Neglecting care during the colder months can result in algae growth, damaged equipment, and expensive cleaning work when summer returns. Whether you have a backyard plunge pool or a full-size lap pool, understanding how to care for it through winter is essential for its longevity and cleanliness.
This guide walks through key steps to manage your pool during winter in Australia, ensuring it’s ready for action when the warmer days return.
Even when unused, a pool remains exposed to environmental elements like dust, rain, and falling leaves. Without regular upkeep, water chemistry becomes unbalanced, surfaces accumulate grime, and equipment may deteriorate.
Taking preventive measures during winter can:
1. Minimise costly repairs
2. Extend pool equipment life
3. Reduce summer prep time
4. Keep water in better condition
The best time to begin your winter preparation is in late autumn, before temperatures drop too low. This ensures you can complete all necessary checks and adjustments in mild weather, making the process easier and more efficient.
Before the season changes, check pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels. Keeping water balanced protects your pool’s surface and prevents scale buildup or corrosion.
Recommended levels:
A) pH: 7.2 – 7.6
B) Alkalinity: 80 – 120 ppm
C) Calcium Hardness: 200 – 275 ppm
Add winter algaecide and shock treatment if necessary, particularly if the pool isn’t covered year-round.
Use a leaf net or skimmer to remove floating debris. Vacuum the base to pick up dirt and brush the walls to prevent algae. This reduces contaminants and ensures better chemical efficiency.
Also, clean the skimmer basket and pool filter. A thorough clean before shutdown will save hours of work post-winter.
Installing a pool cover is one of the simplest ways to protect your water and surface during winter. In Australia, where debris can accumulate due to frequent storms or strong winds, a durable cover helps reduce maintenance time and chemical use.
A) Solid covers: Best for keeping out sunlight and debris
B) Mesh covers: Allow drainage but may let some dirt through
C) Automatic covers: Convenient but more expensive
Make sure the cover fits tightly, without gaps that allow leaves, bugs, or rainwater to enter.
If you’re choosing to keep your system running on a reduced schedule during winter, set the pump to run for 2–4 hours daily. This ensures water circulation and prevents stagnation.
For those opting to shut the pool down entirely, clean and dry the filter and pump, and consider professional help to prevent internal freeze damage—even though Australian winters rarely freeze water solid, regions like Canberra or elevated areas can be at slight risk.
Some Australian pool owners prefer to “winterize” by fully closing the pool. Others keep it running on minimal operation. Both options are valid; the choice depends on location, pool usage, and weather.
1. Backwash the filter
2. Lower water level below the skimmer
3. Add appropriate chemicals (shock, algaecide, scale preventer)
4. Disconnect and store equipment
5. Cover the pool tightly
Partial operation, on the other hand, requires weekly or fortnightly checks but allows easier reopening in spring.
When spring arrives, it’s tempting to jump in right away—but cleaning is necessary first.
Here’s how to clean the pool after winter:
1. Remove the cover and rinse it before storing
2. Skim, vacuum, and brush the pool thoroughly
3. Reconnect equipment if disconnected
4. Test water chemistry and adjust accordingly
5. Run the pump for at least 24–48 hours before swimming
If water clarity is poor, use a flocculant or clarifier to gather fine particles for easier removal.
Keeping your pool healthy during winter doesn’t require daily checks.
Follow these easy pool maintenance habits:
1. Inspect the cover regularly for rips or water pooling
2. Check chlorine levels fortnightly if the system is running
3. Remove any floating debris before it settles
4. Keep the pump timer consistent
These small efforts can make a big difference in how your pool performs once warm weather returns.
Even experienced pool owners sometimes make winter care mistakes.
Avoid these common errors:
1. Skipping the chemical check before covering
2. Leaving the pump off for months without proper shutdown
3. Using the wrong type of cover or not securing it
4. Neglecting filter cleaning
5. Failing to lower water level if closing the pool completely
Being aware of these issues can save money and time down the line.
Australia’s varied climate means that pool maintenance in winter differs by location.
Here’s a quick overview:
1. Tropical Regions (e.g., QLD): Pools may still be used occasionally, so low-level regular care is preferred over full closure.
2. Temperate Zones (e.g., NSW, VIC): Consider partial shutdown with a good cover and weekly checks.
3. Cooler Areas (e.g., TAS, ACT): Full winterizing may be ideal due to low temperatures.
While winter in Australia doesn’t always bring snow or ice, it still impacts your backyard pool. A few proactive steps can help keep your system healthy, your water clean, and your summer swim season stress-free. Regular monitoring, proper covering, and balanced chemistry are the keys to success.
Whether you’re shutting things down for the season or maintaining a light routine, good winter care ensures your pool remains an asset, not a hassle.
Need Help with Winter Pool Preparation?
Consult a local professional or your pool product supplier to choose the right winterization chemicals, covers, and an automatic pool cleaner that can assist with light off-season maintenance. A little effort now means a crystal-clear pool waiting for you next season.
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