Why You Should Maintain Your Pool's Chemical Balance During Winter

The following is general advice only. Requirements for individual pools and pool systems may vary.

As the cooler months roll in across Australia, many pool owners hang up their towels and let their pool take a seasonal break. But neglecting your pool over winter can lead to major headaches come summer — and cost you more in the long run.

Maintaining your pool's chemical balance during winter is just as important as in the peak of summer. Here's why:

1. Algae Doesn’t Take the Winter Off

You might think algae only blooms in the heat, but some strains thrive in cooler conditions — especially if chlorine levels drop. An unbalanced pool can quickly become a breeding ground for algae, even in winter.

Keeping your sanitiser levels (like chlorine or salt) within range prevents this and saves you from green pool shock treatment later.

2. Protect Your Pool Surface and Equipment

Unbalanced water — especially with low pH or alkalinity — can corrode your pool’s surface, pipes, filter, and heater components. On the flip side, water that’s too alkaline or calcium-rich can leave scale and staining behind.

By maintaining correct pH (7.2–7.6), total alkalinity (80–120ppm), and calcium hardness, you’ll prolong the life of your pool and equipment.

3. Save Time and Money in Spring

Letting your water chemistry go unchecked over winter often leads to a time-consuming (and expensive) cleanup in spring. Stained walls, cloudy water, and damaged filters are common outcomes of a “set and forget” winter approach.

Routine water testing and minor chemical adjustments now will mean far less work when it’s time to swim again.

4. Stop Evaporation From Skewing Your Balance

In some areas of Australia, dry winter air causes pool water to evaporate — even in cool temps. As water evaporates, dissolved chemicals become more concentrated, throwing off your balance and increasing the risk of scaling.

Top up your water as needed and test regularly to avoid overconcentration of chemicals.

5. Peace of Mind All Year Round

Whether you're using your pool or not, knowing it’s clean, safe, and properly maintained gives you peace of mind. With balanced water, your pool is always ready for that unseasonably warm winter day or spontaneous spa session.

Winter Pool Tips for Aussie Owners

  • Test your water every 2–4 weeks (or let us come to you!)

  • Keep your filter running 2–4 hours a day

  • Maintain chlorine and pH levels

  • Use a pool cover to reduce evaporation and debris

  • Add a winterising algaecide for extra protection

Need Help With Winter Maintenance?

At WaterPro Pool and Spa, we offer a mobile pool service — we’ll visit your home, test your water, recommend the right products, and even add them to the pool for you.

📞 Contact us today to book your winter check-up and keep your pool in perfect shape all year round.