5 Pool Maintenance Tips for a Safer Swim

Keeping your Sydney backyard pool safe and sparkling requires regular care and attention. A well-maintained pool not only looks inviting but also protects your family’s health by ensuring the water is clean and properly treated. Below are five essential maintenance tips – from daily upkeep to periodic check-ups – that will help you enjoy a safe, crystal-clear swim all season long in our Sydney climate.

Skimming leaves and debris a few times each week and testing your water chemistry regularly are simple but essential steps to keep your pool water healthy and sparkling. With a consistent maintenance routine, you’ll not only have clear water but also peace of mind knowing it’s safe for your family. Let’s dive into the top five tips:

1. Skim, Scrub & Vacuum Regularly

Routine cleaning is the foundation of pool maintenance. Skim the surface of your pool at least a few times a week to remove leaves, bugs, and debris before they sink and decay. In many Sydney backyards, plants and trees (like eucalyptus or flowering shrubs) can drop organic matter into the pool, so regular skimming is a must.

Brush the walls and floor weekly to prevent algae buildup and stubborn grime – especially in sunny Sydney summers, algae can bloom quickly on unclean surfaces. Don’t forget to vacuum the pool floor as needed (automatic pool cleaners or a manual vacuum can help). This regular cleaning routine keeps the water clear and reduces the workload on your filter. Plus, your pool will look inviting every day for a refreshing dip!

2. Maintain Balanced Water Chemistry

Crystal-clear water isn’t just about appearance – it’s also about safety. Test your pool water frequently (at least once a week, and more often during Sydney’s hot summer months or after heavy pool use) to ensure the chemical levels are in balance. Key levels to monitor include pH, chlorine (or other sanitiser), alkalinity, and stabiliser. Aim for a pH of around 7.2 to 7.8 and a chlorine level of about 1–3 ppm for a safe swimming environment.

Keeping these in range prevents harmful bacteria or algae from taking hold and protects your pool’s surfaces and equipment from corrosion or scaling. Don’t forget to shock the pool occasionally – this means adding a large dose of chlorine (or non-chlorine shock) to oxidise organic waste. Shocking every couple of weeks, especially after heavy rain or a big pool party, helps break down contaminants like sweat and sunscreen that regular chlorination might miss. By staying on top of your water chemistry, you ensure a safe swim (no red eyes or skin irritation) and a sparkling pool that’s always ready for use.

3. Keep an Eye on Water Level

Maintaining the proper water level in your pool is more important than many people realise. Water will naturally evaporate under the Sydney sun and splash out during pool sessions, and heavy rain can quickly raise the level.

Aim to keep the water level about halfway up the skimmer opening. If the level is too low, your pump could begin drawing in air, which may damage it or reduce filtration efficiency. If it’s too high, the skimmer door won’t work properly and debris might not be collected as effectively.

Make it a habit to check the water level each week. After Sydney’s rainstorms or downpours, drain any excess water to prevent overflow (and re-check your chemical balance, since rain can dilute your pool chemicals). During dry spells, top up the pool with fresh water as needed. Consistent water level helps the filtration system run smoothly and keeps your chemical balance more stable.

4. Clean the Filter & Maintain Equipment

Your pool’s filter is its silent workhorse, constantly removing impurities to keep the water clear. Whether you have a cartridge filter, sand filter, or DE filter, it needs regular cleaning to work effectively.

Rinse or backwash your filter as recommended (generally whenever the pressure rises ~8–10 psi above normal for sand/DE filters, or clean cartridge filters every few weeks during peak season). A clogged, dirty filter can’t trap debris effectively and puts strain on your pump. Neglecting filter maintenance is a common reason pools turn cloudy or green.

Sydney’s outdoor conditions – summer winds blowing dust or leaves – may require more frequent cleaning.

Inspect your pool equipment routinely:

• Ensure the pump is running smoothly

• Listen for unusual noises

• Empty the pump strainer basket

• Check chlorinators and heaters for scale or blockages

A quick inspection can catch small issues like a leaky O-ring or blocked impeller before they become costly fixes.

5. Schedule Professional Check-Ups

Even with diligent DIY maintenance, it pays to have a professional pool technician service your pool periodically. Think of it like regular dental check-ups, but for your pool – pros can spot issues you may not notice.

Schedule a professional service at least once or twice a year (e.g., spring and pre-winter). Technicians perform deep filter cleans, test water thoroughly, inspect equipment, evaluate lighting, pool cleaners, and surfaces, and perform tasks like acid washing when needed.

This helps catch issues early and prepares your pool for seasonal changes. FAM Pool & Spa Solutions offers reliable maintenance and servicing for Sydney pool owners – from routine care to repairs.

Investing in these steps and occasional professional support keeps your pool safe, sparkling, and enjoyable all year.