Pool Maintenance Tips For Before Going on Holidays

Heading off on a well-earned break? Don’t forget about your pool. While you’re relaxing, the last thing you want is to return to green water, algae blooms or malfunctioning equipment. With a little preparation, your pool can stay clean, clear and swim-ready for your return.

Here’s your step-by-step guide to keeping your pool in top shape while you're away.

Balance Your Pool Water

Before you go, it’s important to check and balance your pool water. Use a reliable testing kit or visit your local SPASA pool shop for a comprehensive water test.

Make sure your pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness and sanitiser levels are all within recommended ranges. Balanced water prevents scale, staining and corrosion, and helps your pool chemicals work more effectively. It’s the foundation of a healthy pool while you’re away.

Shock the Pool Before You Leave

“Shocking” your pool means adding a large dose of sanitiser—usually chlorine—to eliminate contaminants and boost chlorine levels.

This step kills off any lingering bacteria or algae, gives your sanitiser a strong head start, and helps prevent cloudy or green water.

Tip: Do this the evening before you leave to give the chlorine time to work overnight without being broken down by sunlight. If you’ll be away for an extended time, consider a stronger treatment for added protection.

Add a Long-Lasting Algaecide

Even with sanitiser and shock treatments, algae can creep in if your pool isn’t regularly monitored. Algaecide is your backup defence.

Use a product that’s designed for extended protection while you’re away. If you have a saltwater pool, use a salt-specific algaecide or protector. Always follow the label directions to match your pool’s volume.

This step helps keep your water sparkling and free from unwanted growth.

Thoroughly Clean the Pool

A clean pool is a happy pool—and a lot easier to maintain while you’re away.

Before leaving, skim the surface to remove leaves, bugs and debris. Brush the walls and floor, vacuum thoroughly or run your robotic cleaner, empty the baskets, and clean or backwash the filter.

Removing debris and build-up now reduces the risk of clogs and helps your pool stay healthy in your absence.

Set the Filtration Timer

Your filtration system is the heart of your pool—it keeps water moving, which helps prevent algae and debris build-up.

Set your pump timer to run daily, ideally during the warmest part of the day. Ensure the timer is programmed correctly and that your pump and filter are clean and operating efficiently.

If you have a variable-speed pump, run it on a low speed for longer periods to maintain circulation while saving energy.

Maintain Chlorine Levels While You’re Away

Even with shock and algaecide, your pool needs a steady supply of chlorine.

Top up your chlorinator or feeder before you leave. For extra support, add chlorine tablets to a floating dispenser. For saltwater systems, make sure salt levels are ideal and the chlorinator is functioning properly.

This slow-release approach keeps your pool sanitised while you're away.

Ask a Friend or Neighbour to Check In

If you’ll be gone for more than a few days, it’s wise to ask someone to check on the pool. It doesn’t have to be a big task—just a quick look to ensure everything is running smoothly.

They can scoop out leaves, top up the water if needed, and ensure the pump is still running. Leave a simple checklist or show them the ropes before you go.

Test the Water When You Return

When you get back, give your pool a post-holiday check.

Bring a sample to your local SPASA pool shop to test and rebalance the water if needed. Clean the filter and remove any debris that may have collected while you were away.

This ensures your pool is safe and swim-ready as soon as you're home.

Final Tip: Use a Pool Blanket

Want extra peace of mind? A pool blanket or cover can be a great addition while you're away.

It helps reduce evaporation, keeps out debris, retains heat and limits chemical loss. This simple step can make a big difference, especially in warmer months.

Enjoy your well-deserved break. With just a little planning, your pool will be clean, clear, and ready to dive into the moment you return.

Need expert help or supplies before your trip? Visit your local SPASA-accredited pool shop or service technician for trusted advice.