As summer fades and the crisp air of autumn sets in, pool owners in Adelaide need to adjust their maintenance routine to match the seasonal changes. Autumn brings cooler temperatures, falling leaves, and shifting water chemistry, all of which can impact your pool’s condition.
By taking the right steps now, you’ll keep your pool looking pristine throughout autumn, prevent major maintenance issues, and make reopening it in the warmer months much easier.
Here’s everything you need to know about preparing your pool for the autumn season in Adelaide.
🍂 Why Autumn Pool Maintenance is Important
Many pool owners make the mistake of neglecting their pools once summer ends, assuming they won’t need as much care. However, autumn introduces new challenges:
✔ Falling leaves and debris can clog your pool’s filtration system and lead to algae growth.
✔ Cooler temperatures affect water chemistry, requiring adjustments to chlorine and pH levels.
✔ Reduced pool usage leads to stagnant water, which can encourage bacteria and algae to grow.
✔ Less evaporation means chemical balance can fluctuate, making regular testing essential.
A proactive approach to autumn pool maintenance will save you from costly repairs and intensive cleaning efforts down the track.
1. Stay on Top of Skimming and Cleaning
Autumn is notorious for leaves, dirt, and organic debris blowing into your pool. If left unchecked, this can:
- Clog skimmers and pool pumps.
- Decompose in the water, leading to algae and bacterial growth.
- Cause stains on your pool’s surface.
How to Keep Your Pool Debris-Free:
✅ Skim the pool daily to remove floating leaves and twigs.
✅ Empty skimmer baskets regularly to prevent clogging.
✅ Use a pool cover when not in use to minimise debris.
✅ Vacuum the pool weekly to clean settled debris from the bottom.
For extra convenience, automatic pool cleaners or robotic vacuums can do the hard work for you!
2. Maintain Proper Water Chemistry
As the temperature drops, your pool’s chemical balance changes, requiring more frequent testing and adjustments.
Key Chemical Adjustments for Autumn:
🔹 Chlorine Levels: With fewer swimmers, chlorine demand drops, but you still need enough to prevent algae. Keep levels between 1-3 ppm.
🔹 pH Balance: Aim for a pH of 7.2-7.6 to avoid irritation and equipment damage.
🔹 Alkalinity: Maintain at 80-120 ppm to stabilize pH levels.
🔹 Calcium Hardness: Keep at 200-400 ppm to prevent scaling or erosion.
✅ Test your pool water weekly using a reliable test kit or strips.
✅ Bring in a water sample for a free professional test at Century Pool & Spa Services.
3. Reduce Pump and Filtration Time
During summer, most pools need 8-12 hours of daily filtration to keep up with heavy use. In autumn, you can reduce pump time to save energy and maintain efficiency.
Optimal Filtration Schedule for Autumn:
✔ 4-6 hours per day is usually enough for most pools.
✔ If you notice algae growth or murky water, increase filtering time slightly.
✔ Clean or backwash your pool filter to keep it running efficiently.
A well-maintained filter means clearer water, lower chemical usage, and fewer repairs in the long run.
4. Extend Your Swimming Season with a Pool Heater
Just because summer is over doesn’t mean swimming season has to be! A quality pool heater can keep your water at a comfortable temperature, allowing you to enjoy your pool well into autumn.
Pool Heating Options:
- Electric Heat Pumps – Energy-efficient and perfect for maintaining consistent warmth.
- Solar Heating Systems – Eco-friendly and cost-effective in the long term.
- Gas Heaters – Fast heating but higher running costs.
Speak to Century Pool & Spa Services for expert advice on the best heating system for your pool.
5. Prevent Algae and Bacteria Growth
Algae can still thrive in autumn, especially when water circulation decreases. Applying a quality algaecide now prevents green water and reduces the need for shock treatments later.
How to Keep Your Pool Algae-Free:
✔ Brush walls and floors weekly to prevent buildup.
✔ Shock your pool if needed, especially after heavy rain or debris buildup.
✔ Use an algaecide to prevent growth before it starts.
A small effort now prevents a green pool nightmare later!
6. Inspect and Maintain Pool Equipment
Autumn is the perfect time to check your pool’s equipment for wear and tear before winter arrives.
Essential Equipment Checks:
🔧 Pool Pump – Listen for unusual noises and check for leaks.
🔧 Filter System – Clean or backwash your filter for optimal efficiency.
🔧 Chlorinators and Heaters – Ensure they’re functioning correctly.
🔧 O-Rings and Seals – Inspect and replace any cracked or worn-out parts.
Regular maintenance keeps your pool running smoothly and extends the life of your equipment.
Keep Your Pool Autumn-Ready with Century Pool & Spa Services!
Following these autumn pool maintenance tips will help you avoid costly repairs, keep your pool crystal-clear, and prepare for the cooler months ahead.
Need professional help? We’ve got you covered!
✔ Free water testing – Bring in a sample and we’ll analyse it for you.
✔ Expert advice on pool chemicals, heaters, and equipment.
✔ Onsite servicing and maintenance to keep your pool in peak condition.