Do you ever wonder what happens to your pool once the cool season arrives? Many pool owners make the mistake of ignoring maintenance during winter, only to face costly repairs when summer returns. The right precautions can keep your pool sparkling and ready for warm days ahead.
When it comes to caring for your above ground pool, proper winter preparation is key. Whether you live in Melbourne, Brisbane, or Sydney, cold weather can affect pool liners, water chemistry, and filters. A few smart steps can protect your pool and extend its life for many seasons.
Clean the Pool Thoroughly Before Closing
A clean pool lasts longer and stays healthier. Before winter sets in, remove leaves, dirt, and debris using a skimmer or vacuum. Brush the walls and floor to prevent stains or algae growth. Pay special attention to the waterline, where grime tends to build up.
Adding a quality pool cleaner also helps maintain clear water through the colder months. Clean water prevents bacteria from forming and protects your liner from discolouration. A few hours of work now saves weeks of cleaning once summer returns to places like Perth or Adelaide.
Balance the Water Chemistry
Balanced water protects your pool’s surface and equipment. Check pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels before closing for winter. The goal is to keep the water neutral, not too acidic or too alkaline. An unbalanced pool can corrode metal parts or damage liners.
Use a reliable testing kit to measure everything accurately. Once the balance is right, add a winterising chemical or algaecide. It keeps the water clean and prevents algae even when the pool isn’t in use. Proper chemistry care is a simple step that pays off when you open your pool again in Queensland or Victoria.
Lower the Water Level Safely
Lowering the water level slightly below the skimmer prevents freezing damage and overflow during heavy rain. However, don’t drain it completely; an empty pool risks collapse from pressure changes or shifting soil.
If your area experiences mild winters, keep the water level just below the inlet. This helps maintain the pool’s structure while leaving enough room for cover placement. The small adjustment protects both the liner and frame, especially for above-ground setups across New South Wales and Tasmania.
Protect the Pump and Filter System
Your pool’s pump and filter need special care before winter. Turn off all electrical connections and disconnect hoses. Drain any remaining water to avoid freezing inside the pipes or pump casing. Store these components in a dry, covered area to prevent rust.
Clean the filter thoroughly before packing it away. Cartridge filters should be rinsed, while sand filters may need backwashing. When done properly, this ensures your filtration system stays efficient and ready to go when warmer weather returns to places like Canberra or Darwin.
Cover the Pool Properly
A strong, secure pool cover is your best winter defence. Choose a durable cover that fits tightly and resists debris and wind. Secure it with straps or clips to prevent sagging or movement. Check it occasionally through winter to make sure it stays in place.
A fitted cover keeps leaves, dirt, and animals out of the water. When cared for properly, your cover will extend the lifespan of your above ground pool and make reopening it much easier next summer.
Caring for your pool during winter doesn’t take much effort but brings huge rewards. A clean, balanced, and covered pool survives the cold season without damage. Proper preparation keeps the water clear, the equipment protected, and the setup ready for quick use once summer arrives.
After following these steps, your above-ground pool will stay strong through every winter. Whether you’re in Sydney, Brisbane, or Adelaide, a little winter care today means more splash time and less repair tomorrow.
