Top 10 Tips: Preparing your pool for spring

As the winter chill fades away, it's time to gear up for spring – and that means ensuring your pool is ready and waiting when the hot days hit. Here are some tips to help prepare for the upcoming season.

1. Inspection: Start by thoroughly inspecting your pool for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Check for cracks, leaks or loose tiles. Addressing these issues early on keeps everyone safe and can prevent further damage.

2. Safety check: Conduct a thorough safety check. Ensure that pool gates and fences are in good working condition and that all safety equipment, such as lifebuoys and ropes, are present and accessible.

3. Clean and clear debris: Remove leaves, branches and other debris that may have accumulated over the winter. A pool cover will reduce this, but some debris may still get in. Skim the surface and clean out the pump and skimmer baskets.

4. Clean pool walls and floor: Even if you’ve got an automatic cleaner, it doesn’t hurt to give the pool a bit of manual scrub. Brush the walls and floor to eliminate any algae or buildup.

5. Check and service equipment: Inspect your pool equipment including the pump, filter and heater. Make sure they are in good working condition and, if needed, have them professionally serviced to ensure peak performance throughout the upcoming season.

6. Balance pool chemistry: Proper water chemistry is essential for safe and enjoyable swimming. Take a water sample to your local SPASA member pool store for testing and adjust the pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels accordingly. Balanced chemistry prevents algae growth and ensures the water remains clear.

7. Shock the pool: Before the swimming season starts, shock your pool by adding a concentrated dose of chlorine or a non-chlorine shock treatment. This helps eliminate any lingering contaminants and ensures a fresh start to the season.

8. Inspect and repair the pool cover: If you use a pool cover during the winter months, inspect it for damage. Repair or replace it as needed.

9. Trim nearby trees and plants: Trim back trees and plants near the pool area to minimise the likelihood of foliage and debris entering the water.

10. Call in a professional: Hiring a professional to inspect and prepare your pool pre-season is a great idea. SPASA members have the expertise to identify potential issues before they happen and can save you time and money in the long run.