A Guide to Closing or Winterising Your Swimming Pool in Australia

As the cooler months approach in Australia, many pool owners consider winterising their swimming pools. While our climate is milder than many parts of the world, proper pool closure can save you time, money, and maintenance headaches during the off-season.

Why Winterise Your Pool?

Even in Australia's relatively mild winter climate, winterising your pool offers several benefits:

• Reduced chemical consumption

• Lower electricity costs

• Protection of pool equipment

• Prevention of algae growth and staining

• Easier spring reopening

When to Close Your Pool

The ideal time to winterise your pool depends on your location within Australia. Generally, when water temperatures consistently drop below 18°C and you're no longer using the pool regularly, it's time to consider winterising.

Step-by-Step Winterising Guide

1. Clean Your Pool Thoroughly

Start with a clean pool. Remove debris, vacuum the pool floor, and brush the walls and floor to remove any biofilm or algae buildup. This prevents contaminants from taking hold during the winter months. A thorough cleaning before winterising prevents stains and makes reopening your pool much easier when warmer weather returns.

2. Balance Your Water Chemistry

Properly balanced water is crucial for winter protection. Test and adjust:

• pH: 7.2-7.6

• Total Alkalinity: 80-120 ppm

• Calcium Hardness: 200-275 ppm

3. Apply Winter Algaecide Treatment

Add a quality winter algaecide to prevent algae growth during the dormant period. Our Algaefree Winter Algaecide provides long-lasting protection against all types of algae, even when filtration is reduced.

4. Shock Your Pool

Apply a strong chlorine shock treatment to eliminate any remaining bacteria or contaminants. This creates a clean starting point for your winter protection regime.

5. Adjust Equipment Operation

In most Australian climates, you don't need to shut down your filtration system completely. Instead:

• Reduce filtration time to 2-4 hours daily

• Lower chlorinator output

• Consider installing a timer to automate the process

6. Protect Your Pool Equipment

Even in milder Australian winters, equipment protection is important:

• Clean filter thoroughly (backwash sand filters, clean cartridge filters)

• Check for and repair any leaks

• Ensure the pump and filter are protected from extreme weather

• Consider draining equipment if you're in an area prone to freezing temperatures

7. Cover Your Pool

A quality pool cover is a worthwhile investment that reduces evaporation and prevents debris from entering the pool. It also minimises chemical loss and reduces algae growth by limiting sunlight.

Regional Considerations

Australia's diverse climate means winterising needs vary by region:

Northern Australia

With milder winters, focus on reduced maintenance rather than complete shutdown.

Southern Australia

More comprehensive winterising is recommended, especially in areas that experience frost.

Coastal Areas

Pay special attention to salt corrosion protection for equipment.

Maintaining Your Pool During Winter

Even a winterised pool requires some attention:

• Check water chemistry monthly

• Remove debris from the pool cover regularly

• Run the filtration system as recommended

• Inspect equipment periodically

Spring Reopening

When warmer weather returns, you'll need to:

1. Remove and clean the pool cover

2. Clean the pool if necessary

3. Test and balance water chemistry

4. Return to normal filtration hours

5. Rebalance sanitiser levels

Our team at Algaefree Australia has over 30 years of experience helping pool owners maintain crystal clear water year-round. Contact us today for expert advice on winterising your pool or to explore our range of algaecide products. With the right approach, you can protect your investment and ensure your pool is ready to enjoy when swimming season returns.