There’s nothing quite like the first proper swim of summer. The sun’s out, the water sparkles and the backyard suddenly feels like a private resort. But for many pool owners, that first swim is preceded by a less glamorous moment: pulling back the cover after winter and discovering green water, a layer of leaves, a stubborn filter and a few loose tiles along the waterline.
A little preparation before the warmer months arrive can make all the difference. Working through a simple maintenance checklist helps ensure your pool is clean, safe and ready when the first hot weekend hits. It’s also a good time to deal with any wear and tear, such as cracked tiles or damaged grout, since timely pool tile repair can prevent small problems from becoming expensive ones.
Clean out the winter build-up
Start by removing leaves, debris and anything else that’s collected over winter. Use a leaf net to skim the surface and a pool vacuum or automatic cleaner to clear the floor. Empty skimmer baskets and pump baskets, which may be packed with leaves and dirt.
If the water has turned green or cloudy, don’t panic. It’s common after a period of reduced maintenance. A combination of cleaning, shock treatment, correct chemical balancing and running the filtration system for extended periods usually brings the water back. In severe cases, a pool professional can help.
Brush the walls, steps and floor to remove algae and dirt. Pay close attention to corners, behind ladders and around steps, where algae often hides.
Check the water balance
Balanced water is essential for comfort, safety and protecting pool surfaces and equipment. Test the water using a reliable test kit or take a sample to a pool shop for analysis.
Key factors include sanitiser levels, such as chlorine or salt, pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness and stabiliser levels. Unbalanced water can cause eye and skin irritation, cloudy water, corrosion, scaling and damage to tiles and grout.
Follow product instructions carefully when adding chemicals. Store chemicals securely and out of reach of children.
Inspect equipment
Your pool’s equipment works hard throughout summer, so give it a good check before the season starts.
Inspect the pump for leaks, unusual noises or signs of wear. Clean or backwash the filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Cartridge filters may need a thorough clean or replacement. Sand filters may need the sand replaced every few years, depending on use.
Check salt chlorinators and clean the cell if necessary. Make sure automatic cleaners, heaters, lights and timers are working properly.
If you notice problems with equipment, have them repaired before the busy summer period, when pool technicians are often booked out.
Look closely at tiles, surfaces and safety
Pool surfaces experience constant exposure to water, chemicals, sunlight and temperature changes. Over time, tiles can crack, loosen or come away, and grout can deteriorate.
Inspect the waterline tiles, coping and steps. Look for cracked or missing tiles, damaged grout, sharp edges and signs of staining or calcium build-up. Damaged tiles can create safety hazards and allow water to penetrate behind them, potentially causing further damage.
Clean tiles and grout with suitable pool-safe products to remove scale and stains. Repairing problems early helps maintain the pool’s appearance and prevents more extensive repairs later.
Pool safety is critical, particularly for families with young children. Inspect pool fencing and gates carefully. Make sure gates self-close and self-latch properly, and that there are no gaps, damaged panels or climbable objects near the fence.
Check that pool fencing complies with the regulations in your state or territory. Requirements vary, and in some areas pool barriers must be registered or inspected.
Display resuscitation signage near the pool and consider refreshing CPR skills. Even with a compliant fence, active adult supervision is essential whenever children are in or near the water.
Plan for ongoing maintenance
Getting your pool ready is only the start. Regular maintenance throughout summer keeps the water clean and equipment running efficiently.
Skim the surface, empty baskets and check water chemistry regularly. Run the filtration system for an appropriate number of hours each day, adjusting for weather and usage. Use a pool cover when the pool isn’t in use to reduce evaporation, debris and heat loss.
A little effort before summer can save time, money and frustration later. By cleaning thoroughly, balancing the water, servicing equipment, repairing tiles and checking safety, you’ll be ready to enjoy a sparkling pool all season long.
