PC-Youtube
Owning a backyard pool is one of life’s great pleasures—especially for families who love spending time outdoors. But keeping your pool clean can sometimes feel like a chore, particularly if you’re juggling work, parenting, and everything else that comes with daily life. The good news is that maintaining a clean pool doesn’t have to be time-consuming or stressful.
With a bit of planning and the right tools, you can keep your pool sparkling clear and swim-ready with minimal effort. In this guide, we’ll break down practical tips, smart technology options, and time-saving habits to help you enjoy your pool more and maintain it less.
Choose A Low-Maintenance Pool From The Start
One of the best ways to reduce pool upkeep is to choose a pool that’s easy to care for from day one. Fibreglass pools are a standout choice for this reason. The non-porous gelcoat surface resists algae and staining far better than concrete or vinyl-lined pools, meaning you’ll spend less time scrubbing and fewer dollars on chemical treatments.
The smooth surface also requires less brushing, and many fibreglass models come with built-in self-cleaning options or features that make routine maintenance a breeze.
Invest In A Good Pool Cover
A pool cover is one of the most effective tools you can use to reduce cleaning time. It helps keep leaves, bugs, and debris out, reduces evaporation, and protects your pool water from dust and pollutants.
There are a few types to consider:
- Manual covers: A simple and affordable option, great for seasonal use.
- Roller covers: Easy to operate and ideal for families using their pool regularly.
- Automatic covers: Higher upfront cost, but extremely convenient and safe—particularly for homes with young children.
Use A Robotic Pool Cleaner
If you want your pool to clean itself while you relax or tick off other jobs, a robotic cleaner is worth considering. These devices crawl along the pool floor and walls, collecting debris and scrubbing surfaces without needing your help.
Modern robotic cleaners:
- Work independently from your filtration system
- Filter fine debris and large leaves
- Can be set on a schedule or remote controlled
- Are energy-efficient and easy to maintain
It’s a set-and-forget option that takes the manual labour out of cleaning. While they require an upfront investment, many pool owners say it’s the single most time-saving product they’ve bought.
Maintain Balanced Water Chemistry
Keeping your pool water balanced is key to preventing algae, cloudy water, and corrosion. The better your chemistry, the less cleaning you’ll need to do. Test your water weekly with a home testing kit or strips, checking for:
- pH (should be between 7.2 and 7.8)
- Chlorine levels
- Total alkalinity
- Calcium hardness
If the balance is off, it can cause all sorts of issues like algae blooms or skin irritation. Regular testing helps you catch small problems before they become big ones. Many pool shops also offer free water testing—worth doing monthly even if you test at home.
Consider Saltwater Chlorination
If you’re tired of constantly measuring and adding chlorine, a saltwater system might be the way to go. These systems use electrolysis to generate chlorine from salt, providing consistent sanitation without the need to manually add chemicals.
Benefits of saltwater systems include:
- Softer water that’s gentler on skin and eyes
- Fewer chemical adjustments
- Lower long-term maintenance
- Reduced chlorine odour
They’re still chlorine-based, but much more user-friendly than traditional methods.
Empty Skimmer Baskets Regularly
It sounds simple, but staying on top of the little jobs can prevent bigger hassles later. Clearing your pool’s skimmer baskets every few days—especially during windy or stormy weather—helps your filtration system run more efficiently and stops leaves or bugs from settling on the surface.
While you’re at it, check the pump basket and make sure the water level is halfway up the skimmer opening to allow proper circulation.
Run Your Pump At The Right Times
Your pool’s circulation system is its frontline defence against algae and cloudy water. As a general rule, aim to run your pump for around 8 hours per day during summer, and adjust accordingly during winter.
A timer can automate this process so you’re not constantly switching the system on and off. Some modern pumps also include variable speed settings for energy savings, allowing you to run them longer at lower speeds for better water flow and lower electricity costs.
Keep Your Pool Area Clean
One often-overlooked factor in swimming pool and in smaller plunge pools perth cleanliness is the area around it. Sweeping your deck regularly and trimming nearby trees can stop dirt, dust, and leaves from blowing into the water. It also reduces the chance of organic material building up and promoting algae growth.
If you have a lawn near your pool, consider installing pavers or artificial turf to reduce grass clippings. The fewer contaminants near your pool, the easier it’ll be to keep it clean.
Embrace Smart Technology
Smart pool technology is becoming more accessible, and it can make a big difference when it comes to maintenance. From automatic chemical dosing systems to smartphone-controlled filters and lights, technology can help you stay on top of your pool’s condition with less effort.
Many systems allow you to monitor water levels, schedule cleaning, and receive alerts when things need attention—all from your phone.
Create A Simple Routine
Sometimes, the best way to reduce hassle is to keep a simple, regular routine. Here’s a basic weekly checklist:
- Scoop out floating debris with a leaf net
- Empty skimmer and pump baskets
- Check the water level and top up if needed
- Test and adjust water chemistry
- Rinse down pool surrounds
- Run your robotic cleaner or give the walls a light brush if needed
Spending just 10–15 minutes a week on these basics can prevent hours of heavy cleaning later on.
When In Doubt, Call A Pro
If you’d rather not think about maintenance at all, many pool owners choose to hire a local pool technician for monthly servicing. It’s an easy way to ensure your pool stays healthy and crystal clear without lifting a finger.
Even if you handle most tasks yourself, a seasonal check-up from a professional can help you catch issues early and keep your equipment in good shape.
Make Cleaning Work For You, Not Against You
With the right strategies and tools, pool maintenance doesn’t have to be a constant battle. By investing in a few time-saving products, setting up an easy routine, and keeping your pool chemistry in check, you can enjoy all the fun of pool ownership without the frustration. A clean pool is a happy pool—and a hassle-free one gives you more time to enjoy it with your family and friends.
