How do I get my pool ready for summer on the Sunshine Coast ?
Summer on the Sunshine Coast means warmer temperatures, longer days, and more time spent in the pool. Unfortunately, it also means higher chlorine demand and faster algae growth. As the water warms up, bacteria and algae multiply much more quickly, making regular maintenance even more important.
Before summer arrives, it's a good idea to prepare your pool by following these simple steps:
Balance your water chemistry
Start by testing your water and making sure your chlorine, pH, buffer, calcium hardness, stabiliser and salt levels are all within their recommended ranges. Balanced water is much easier to maintain throughout the warmer months.
Increase your pump running time
As a general guide, your filtration system should circulate the entire volume of your pool 2 to 2.5 times per day during summer. Longer filtration times help remove contaminants, distribute chlorine more effectively, and reduce the risk of algae.
Increase your chlorinator output
Your pool will consume more chlorine during summer due to:
Higher water temperatures.
Increased sunlight.
More swimmers.
Greater amounts of dust, pollen and organic debris.
Increase your chlorinator output as needed to maintain the recommended free chlorine level.
Check your stabiliser/ sunscreen (cyanuric acid)
Stabiliser protects your chlorine from being destroyed by the sun's UV rays. If the stabiliser level is too low, most of your chlorine can disappear within a few hours on a sunny day, making it much harder to keep the pool sanitised.
Keep an eye on your pool blanket
If you use a pool blanket, don't assume the pool can be ignored. Warm water beneath a covered pool can still encourage algae growth if chlorine levels become too low.
On the other hand, because a pool blanket protects chlorine from sunlight, your pool may require less chlorine than an uncovered pool. Avoid running unnecessarily high chlorine levels for extended periods, as excessive chlorine can shorten the lifespan of some pool blankets. Check the blanket manufacturer's recommendations if you're unsure.
Alex’s Advice💡
The easiest time to prevent algae is before it appears. Regular water testing, correct filtration times and small adjustments to your chlorinator throughout summer will save you time, money and frustration.
If you'd like your pool professionally prepared for summer, feel free to book a service. I'll test and balance your water, inspect your equipment, and make sure everything is ready for a trouble-free swimming season.