Summer’s Coming: 7 Steps to Get Your Pool Ready for the Heat

The Australian summer is right around the corner, and there’s no better feeling than diving into a sparkling clean pool on a hot day. But before the weather really turns it on, it’s worth giving your pool a little TLC. Whether it’s been sitting idle with a pool cover through winter or getting light use, a pre-summer check-up will help keep the water clear, safe, and swim-ready all season long. Taking the time now to get your pool ready for summer not only enhances your enjoyment but also protects your investment by preventing damage caused by neglect or sudden temperature changes.

This pool maintenance checklist includes checking your pool surfaces for any cracks or wear, balancing pool water chemistry to the ideal levels, and ensuring your filtration system is operating efficiently. By addressing these key areas ahead of the busy season, you’ll reduce the risk of algae growth, equipment breakdowns, and water imbalances that can affect swimmer safety and comfort.

Additionally, routine pool maintenance during summer will be much easier and less time-consuming if you start with a solid foundation of cleanliness and proper water balance. Remember, a well-maintained pool is not just about aesthetics; it’s essential for the health of your family and guests, providing a safe and enjoyable swimming environment throughout the hottest months.

Here’s how to get your pool ready for the heat.

1. Skim and Scoop the Debris
Start with the basics, remove the pool cover and give it a good clean. Get rid of any leaves, bugs, or debris that have settled over the cooler months. A quick surface clean makes your next steps faster and more effective. This initial cleanup is crucial because accumulated dirt and organic matter can lead to algae growth and clog your filtration system if left unattended. Using a skimmer net, scoop out all visible debris from the pool surface and empty the skimmer baskets regularly to maintain optimal water flow. Don’t forget to check the pool deck and surrounding areas as well, since dirt and leaves there can easily blow back into your pool. Regular cleaning of these areas helps keep your pool environment tidy and reduces the workload on your pool equipment.

2. Check the Water Level
Make sure your pool water sits about halfway up the skimmer opening. Too low and the pump might run dry; too high and the skimmer can’t do its job. Maintaining the proper water level is essential for efficient filtration and circulation. If the water level drops too much, the pump may suck in air, causing it to lose prime and potentially damaging the system. On the other hand, if the water is too high, debris and contaminants may bypass the skimmer, leading to dirtier water and increased strain on your filtration system. Regularly check and adjust the water level, especially during hot summer days when evaporation rates are higher. Using a garden hose to top up the pool to the normal operating level helps keep everything running smoothly. Additionally, consider using a pool cover when the pool is not in use to reduce water loss from evaporation and keep the pool area cleaner.

3. Test and Balance the Water
Get a pool testing kit and check chlorine, pH, and alkalinity levels. Balanced water prevents algae growth, keeps swimmers safe, and helps your pool cleaner work efficiently. Regularly testing these chemical levels is essential because imbalances can lead to cloudy water, skin irritation, and damage to pool surfaces or equipment. Aim to maintain chlorine levels between 1 and 3 ppm (parts per million), pH levels between 7.2 and 7.8, and alkalinity within 80 to 120 ppm. Adjust these parameters as needed using appropriate chemicals, such as chlorine tablets, pH increasers or decreasers, and alkalinity buffers.

Keeping your water chemistry in check not only ensures a crystal clear pool but also extends the life of your pool liner and reduces the risk of costly repairs. Don’t forget to test calcium hardness as well, aiming for levels between 200 and 400 ppm to prevent scaling or corrosion. Testing should be done at least once a week during the summer season, or more frequently after heavy pool use or rain. By staying on top of your water chemistry, you create a safe and inviting swimming environment that your family and guests will appreciate.

4. Give the Filter a Deep Clean
Your filter does the heavy lifting all summer long. Backwash or rinse it thoroughly to remove any buildup that could slow circulation. Filters trap dirt, debris, and oils that accumulate from swimmers and the environment, so keeping them clean is essential to maintaining clear and healthy pool water. Depending on your filter type, whether sand, cartridge, or diatomaceous earth (DE), the cleaning process will vary.

For sand filters, backwashing reverses the flow of water to flush out trapped particles. Cartridge filters require removal and rinsing with a hose, sometimes accompanied by a filter cleaner solution for stubborn grime. DE filters need backwashing and periodic addition of fresh DE powder. Regularly monitoring your filter pressure gauge is a good practice; a rise in pressure typically signals that the filter media is clogged and needs cleaning. Neglecting filter maintenance can lead to poor water circulation, increased strain on your pump, and ultimately higher energy consumption and potential equipment damage.

By dedicating time to thorough filter cleaning before and during the summer season, you ensure your filtration system operates efficiently, contributing to crystal clear, swim-ready pool water throughout the hottest months.

5. Inspect Pool Equipment
Inspect your pump, hoses, and fittings for any leaks or signs of wear. A few minutes spent inspecting now can save you costly repairs later. Regularly inspecting your pool equipment helps identify small issues before they become major problems. Look for cracks, brittleness, or loose connections in hoses and fittings, as these can lead to leaks or reduced water flow. Ensure the pump is running smoothly without unusual noises or vibrations, which could indicate motor or bearing wear.

Tighten any loose clamps or fittings to prevent air from entering the system, which can cause loss of pump prime and reduce filtration efficiency. If you notice any damaged parts, replacing them promptly will help maintain optimal performance and extend the life of your pool equipment. Additionally, keeping your equipment clean and free from debris buildup will improve its efficiency and reduce energy consumption throughout the summer season.

6. Shock and Sanitise
A chlorine shock treatment wipes out bacteria and gets your water sparkling clean before the first big swim of the season. Shocking your pool involves adding a higher-than-normal dose of chlorine or other sanitising chemicals to rapidly raise the chlorine level and eliminate contaminants such as bacteria, algae spores, and organic waste. This process is especially important after periods of heavy use, storms, or when the water chemistry has been off balance for a while. To perform a shock treatment, first test your pool water to ensure the pH is within the ideal range (7.2 to 7.8), as this helps the shock work effectively. Then, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct amount of shock product to add based on your pool size.

It’s best to shock your pool in the evening or at night to avoid sunlight breaking down the chlorine too quickly. After adding the shock, run your pump and filtration system continuously for at least 8 hours to circulate the chemicals thoroughly. Once the chlorine levels return to a safe range, usually below 3 ppm, your pool will be ready for swimmers. Regular shocking throughout the summer season helps maintain clear, healthy pool water and prevents algae growth and unpleasant odours, ensuring a safe and enjoyable swimming environment for your family and guests.

7. Let Kreepy Krauly Do the Hard Work
Once everything’s balanced and clean, connect your Kreepy Krauly automatic pool cleaner to keep it that way. It’ll handle daily debris, improve circulation, and save you time so you can focus on relaxing, not scrubbing. Automatic pool cleaners like the Kreepy Krauly are designed to navigate your pool efficiently, reaching spots that are often missed during manual cleaning. By continuously removing leaves, dirt, and other debris, they help maintain optimal water clarity and reduce strain on your filtration system. This consistent cleaning action not only keeps your pool looking pristine but also helps prevent algae growth and prolongs the life of your pool surfaces and equipment.

Using an automatic pool cleaner is especially beneficial during the busy summer heat period when frequent swimming increases the amount of contaminants in the water. Investing in a reliable pool cleaner means less time spent on maintenance chores and more time enjoying your pool with family and friends.

Ready to dive in?
With a few simple steps and the right pool cleaner, your backyard will be summer-ready in no time. Consistent maintenance means clearer water, fewer hassles, and more time enjoying the sun. By following these essential preparation steps early, you not only ensure your pool looks inviting but also extend the lifespan of your pool equipment and surfaces. Remember to schedule regular inspections and reviews throughout the season to catch any issues before they escalate. Investing in professional pool inspections can provide peace of mind, confirming that your filtration system, pump, and pool surfaces are all functioning optimally.

Additionally, consider the surrounding space and landscaping to enhance your pool area’s comfort and aesthetics. Proper landscaping can provide shade, reduce debris falling into the pool, and create a relaxing environment for family and friends. Incorporating pool rules and safety signage helps ensure everyone enjoys the pool responsibly and safely.

Finally, don’t forget to drain excess water during heavy rains or storms to prevent damage, and keep an ice-cool supply of refreshments nearby to beat the heat. With these thoughtful touches and ongoing care, your pool will be a perfect oasis all summer long.