Owning a pool is one of the great joys of Australian living — especially during Sydney’s scorching summers. But with that enjoyment comes responsibility. Pool maintenance isn’t just about keeping the water clear; it’s about preserving your pool’s lifespan, preventing costly repairs, and ensuring it’s always ready for a refreshing dip. Unfortunately, many homeowners make small pool cleaning mistakes that lead to big problems over time.
In this guide, we’ll uncover the most common pool cleaning mistakes Australians make and show you how to avoid them — so your pool remains safe, sparkling, and ready to enjoy all year round.
1. Skipping Regular Cleaning During Winter
When the cooler months roll in (June to August), many pool owners assume their pools can be left alone. However, neglecting cleaning during winter is one of the most common mistakes. Even when you’re not swimming, debris, leaves, and algae can still accumulate.
Over time, this build-up affects water balance and can stain pool surfaces. To avoid this, keep your pool covered when not in use and perform light cleaning every two to three weeks. Regularly running the pump for a few hours daily also prevents stagnant water.
If you prefer to leave it to professionals, consider scheduling a seasonal pool service through the Pool Cleaning experts at Glamour Pools and Spas — they’ll ensure your pool stays in top condition year-round.
2. Not Checking Water Chemistry Frequently Enough
Balancing your pool’s chemistry is one of the most important — and often overlooked — aspects of pool maintenance. Too much chlorine or incorrect pH levels can irritate skin and eyes, damage equipment, and promote algae growth.
Ideally, you should test your pool water at least once a week, and even more often during Sydney’s warmer months (December to February). Keep pH levels between 7.2 and 7.6, and chlorine between 1 and 3 ppm.
A pool professional can help fine-tune these levels and identify imbalances early, saving you time and stress.
3. Overlooking the Filter System
clean. Yet many homeowners forget to clean or backwash their filters regularly. A dirty filter can cause murky water, reduced water flow, and excess strain on your pump.
To avoid this mistake, clean your filter every 4–6 weeks depending on usage and debris levels. If your pool sees heavy use during summer, you may need to clean it more often.
Regular maintenance of your pool equipment — including pumps, filters, and heaters — can be arranged with Glamour Pools and Spas.
4. Brushing and Vacuuming Only Occasionally
Many pool owners rely solely on their skimmer and forget the importance of brushing pool walls and vacuuming the floor. However, algae and bacteria cling to surfaces, forming a biofilm that isn’t removed by filtration alone.
Brush the walls and steps at least once a week — especially in shaded areas where algae thrive — and vacuum to remove debris that the skimmer misses. Investing in an automatic pool cleaner can make this process more efficient, particularly in autumn when falling leaves are abundant.
5. Ignoring the Pool’s Water Level
Maintaining the right water level is crucial for proper filtration and pump operation. If the level drops too low, air may enter the system and cause the pump to overheat or fail. Conversely, if it’s too high, debris won’t skim properly.
After heavy rainfall or periods of frequent swimming, always check your pool’s water level and adjust it accordingly. The water should ideally sit halfway up the skimmer opening.
6. Using the Wrong Cleaning Products
Not all cleaning products are suitable for every pool surface. Using harsh chemicals or household cleaners can damage pool liners, tiles, and equipment. Always choose products specifically designed for pool use and approved for your pool’s material.
If unsure, consult a pool technician who can recommend safe and effective products — especially those suited for the Australian climate, where high UV exposure can affect chemical balance.
7. Forgetting to Shock the Pool
“Shocking” your pool — or super-chlorinating it — helps remove organic contaminants that regular chlorine may not eliminate. Neglecting to shock your pool can lead to cloudy water and stubborn algae blooms.
It’s best to shock your pool every two to three weeks during summer, and monthly in the cooler months. Always do this in the evening to prevent the sun from burning off the chlorine too quickly.
8. Neglecting Professional Pool Inspections
While DIY maintenance is essential, professional inspections ensure that your pool equipment, structure, and water quality remain at their best. Professionals can detect hidden issues such as leaks, motor inefficiencies, or chemical imbalances before they escalate.
Glamour Pools and Spas offers comprehensive maintenance and inspection services, helping Sydney homeowners keep their pools healthy, clean, and efficient all year round.
9. Not Adjusting Cleaning Routines by Season
Australia’s climate varies across the year, and so should your cleaning habits:
- Summer (Dec–Feb): Increase cleaning frequency due to heavy use and higher temperatures.
- Autumn (Mar–May): Skim regularly to remove falling leaves and organic debris.
- Winter (Jun–Aug): Maintain light cleaning and water balance while keeping your pool covered.
- Spring (Sep–Nov): Prepare for swimming season by deep cleaning, inspecting equipment, and adjusting chlorine levels
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By adjusting your cleaning routine to Sydney’s seasons, you’ll reduce chemical use, prevent equipment strain, and enjoy a crystal-clear pool when it matters most.
