Pool Cleaning
Without the Dramaπ¦πΊ
From green swamp to resort vibes.
Everything you actually need to know π¦
π€Real Talk: Why Pool Maintenance Matters
Your pool is basically a giant petri dish. Warm water + sunlight + organic matter = bacteria's dream holiday destination. Without proper maintenance, you're swimming in a science experiment gone wrong.
The good news? Once you nail the basics, pool care takes about 30 mins a week. Skip it, and you're looking at expensive recovery jobs, equipment damage, and the dreaded green pool shame when mates come over for a barbie.
Zone-by-Zone Breakdown π―
Every part of your pool has its own vibe. Here's how to handle each one.
Water Chemistry
The problem: Cloudy water, green tinge, that eye-burning chlorine smell that's actually a sign of NOT enough chlorine
Test strips weekly. Chlorine 1-3ppm, pH 7.2-7.6. Shock if it's looking sus.
Full water test at pool shop monthly. They'll tell you exactly what's off.
Consistent testing schedule. 5 mins saves you draining the whole thing.
Skimmer & Pump Basket
The problem: Clogged baskets = pump working overtime = higher power bills = sad wallet
Empty baskets every few days. More often if you've got trees nearby.
Hose out properly, check for cracks. Replace if they're looking sketchy.
Trim overhanging branches. Less debris = less maintenance.
Pool Walls & Floor
The problem: Algae creeping in, that slippery feeling, waterline scum ring of shame
Weekly brush down. Algae hates movement. Robot cleaners are your bestie.
Vacuum to waste for heavy debris. Don't recirculate that nastiness.
Run the pump 8-12 hours daily. Stagnant water = algae paradise.
Filter
The problem: Dirty filter = dirty pool. It's literally the kidneys of your pool.
Backwash when pressure rises 8-10 PSI above clean baseline.
Cartridge: Soak in filter cleaner overnight. Sand: Replace every 5-7 years.
Mark your baseline pressure. Know your filter's personality.
Salt Cell (If Applicable)
The problem: Calcium buildup = weak chlorine production = wasted electricity
Visual check monthly. If it's crusty, it's crying for help.
Soak in 1:10 hydrochloric acid solution. Watch it fizz. Satisfying tbh.
Keep calcium hardness in check (200-400ppm). Hard water kills cells faster.
The Chemical Cheat Sheet π§ͺ
Print this. Stick it somewhere. Thank us later.
The "Actually Doable" Schedule π
Realistic maintenance for people who have lives. Stick to this and your pool stays gorgeous.
Daily (2 mins)
- Skim surface debris
- Check pump is running
- Quick visual for anything weird
Weekly (30 mins)
- Test and balance water chemistry
- Brush walls and floor
- Empty skimmer & pump baskets
- Check water level
Fortnightly (1 hour)
- Vacuum pool floor
- Clean waterline
- Check filter pressure
- Inspect equipment for leaks
Monthly (2 hours)
- Full water test at pool shop
- Clean salt cell if needed
- Check timer settings
- Inspect pool cover if you have one
Seasonally
- Deep filter clean
- Equipment service check
- Winterise (if applicable)
- Pre-summer shock and algaecide
TikTok Hacks: Tested β
We scrolled through pool-tok so you don't have to. Here's what actually works.
Tennis Balls in the Skimmer
β Actually WorksThe felt absorbs body oils and sunscreen. Chuck a few in β they'll collect the gunk so your filter doesn't have to work as hard.
45M+ views
Pantyhose Over Skimmer Basket
β Low-Key GeniusCatches fine debris that slips through basket holes. Great during pollen season or after storms. Your nan was onto something.
28M+ views
Vitamin C for Metal Stains
β Works on Copper StainsCrush vitamin C tablets, rub on the stain. The ascorbic acid dissolves copper/iron stains. Temporary fix though β you need a metal sequestrant.
19M+ views
Baking Soda to Raise Alkalinity
β Legit ChemistryCheaper than pool shop alkalinity increaser (because it IS the same thing). 1.5kg per 10,000L raises alkalinity ~10ppm.
32M+ views
Pool Noodles Stuffed with Chlorine
β Terrible IdeaSeen this one? Don't. Concentrated chlorine + foam = potential fire hazard. Plus kids will grab it. Just use a floater.
8M+ views
DIY or Call a Pro? π€·
Know when to grab the net and when to grab the phone.
Don't Do These Things
- β’ Mixing chemicals β especially chlorine + acid = toxic gas. Add separately, pump running.
- β’ Adding chemicals without testing first β you're just guessing and probably making it worse.
- β’ Ignoring a green pool β the longer you wait, the more expensive the fix.
- β’ Running the pump only 4 hours β minimum 8 hours daily. More in summer.
- β’ Shock treating in daylight β UV destroys unstabilised chlorine. Shock at dusk.
Rather Leave It to the Pros?π§Ή
A pool technician can have your pool looking resort-ready in no time. Regular servicing from $80-$150/month. One-off cleans from $150.