The biggest problem with swimming pools over winter is “Out of sight Out of Mind”.
Insects breeding in the pool or algal growth can go unnoticed for weeks. We don’t realise that filtration or chemical treatments have stopped working properly. Ducks get in the habit of visiting the pool and can really settle in. This means that come summer time, pool owners all over Australia spend days cleaning the scum, debris and leaf stains out of their pool.
The main thing with winter pool cares to do a small amount of maintenance each week. This avoids a huge job at the beginning of summer.
WINTER POOL MAINTENANCE TIPS
- Filters should be cleaned with filter cleaner and degreaser and the pool vacuumed once a week. Check that there is a strong flow of water coming from the filter. Rather than switching the filter off, adjust the timer to allow the filter to operate for 2 to 3 hours each day.
- Use a commercial algacide to control algal growth before it gets out of control.
- A pool cover can reduce the maintenance needed by stopping debris from falling into the water.
- Enclosing an outdoor pool may be one way to extend your swimming season. Depending on your budget, these structures can be glass, shade cloth or flyscreen.
- Heating systems are great for a cold climate. A range of gas, electric and solar heaters are available. It’s a good idea to use a pool blanket in conjunction with any heating system as they can reduce heating costs by up to 50 per cent. See www.spasa.com.au for more information.
- Plantings can be used for windbreaks and suntraps – these help to lengthen your swimming season. Keep in mind that foliage overhead will drop into your pool. Go for palms and other species that don’t drop litter.
