Introduction
Pretoria’s hot and wet summers can be both a blessing and a challenge for pool owners. Without proper maintenance, pool water can quickly turn cloudy, green, or unsafe due to rapid evaporation, high temperatures, and increased pool usage. If you want to keep your pool sparkling clean all summer, follow this simple yet effective pool maintenance routine tailored for Pretoria’s climate.
Daily Pool Maintenance Tips
Pretoria’s hot and dry summers can be both a blessing and a challenge for pool owners. Without proper maintenance, pool water can quickly turn cloudy, green, or unsafe due to rapid evaporation, high temperatures, and increased pool usage. If you want to keep your pool sparkling clean all summer, follow this simple yet effective pool maintenance routine tailored for Pretoria’s climate.
Check Water Levels
Pretoria’s hot climate causes higher evaporation rates, meaning your pool water can drop by up to 5 cm per week. Make sure your water level is at least halfway up the skimmer opening to avoid pump damage.
Remove Leaves & Debris
With Pretoria’s strong winds and nearby trees, debris quickly accumulates. Use a pool skimmer every morning to remove leaves, bugs, and dirt before they sink to the bottom.
Monitor Pool Chemistry
Use a pool test kit to check for:
- Chlorine (2-3 ppm) – Prevents algae & bacteria.
- pH (7.2 – 7.6) – Keeps water balanced & prevents irritation.
- Alkalinity (80 – 120 ppm) – Stabilises pH.
Weekly Pool Maintenance Tips
Shock Your Pool
Pretoria’s summer heat increases the growth of bacteria and algae. Shock your pool with extra chlorine at least once a week, preferably at night, to burn off contaminants.
Backwash and Rinse the Pool Filter
High heat means more dirt, sunscreen, and sweat entering your pool, causing your filter to work harder. A clogged or dirty filter will reduce circulation, leading to cloudy water and algae growth.
Backwash Your Filter:
- Turn off the pump.
- Set the multiport valve to “Backwash.”
- Turn the pump back on and run it for about 2-3 minutes until the water in the sight glass is clear.
Rinse After Backwashing:
- Turn off the pump again.
- Set the multiport valve to “Rinse.”
- Turn the pump back on for 30-60 seconds to settle the sand and flush out any remaining dirt.
- Return the valve to “Filter” mode before resuming normal operation.
- Tip: In Pretoria’s hot summers, backwashing once a week ensures proper filtration and keeps your pool crystal clear.
Scrub Pool Walls & Steps
Use a pool brush to remove algae buildup on walls, steps, and corners. This prevents stubborn stains and slippery surfaces.
Monthly Pool Maintenance Checklist
- Inspect Pool Equipment – Check the pump, filter, and chlorinator for blockages or leaks.
- Deep Clean the Pool Floor – Use a manual vacuum or an automatic pool cleaner.
- Check for Algae Growth – Apply an algaecide if needed.
- Test and Adjust Calcium Hardness – Prevents pool plaster from corroding.
Every 2nd Month
Have your pool water tested every 2 months at any Builders Warehouse or Pool Shop.
Conclusion
By following this maintenance routine, you can enjoy a sparkling-clean pool all summer without the hassle of unexpected problems.