Owning a swimming pool is one of life’s simple joys. It’s where you gather with family, cool off on hot summer days, and even sneak in some exercise. But, let’s be honest—owning a pool also comes with responsibilities. If you’re not careful, small missteps can snowball into bigger problems, costing you time, money, and a lot of frustration.
Here’s a closer look at eight common swimming pool mistakes—and how you can avoid them.
1. Overlooking Professional Maintenance
Let’s start with the big one. You might think you’re saving money by skipping regular professional pool maintenance, but this is one corner you shouldn’t cut. Sure, you can handle basic tasks like skimming leaves or balancing chemicals, but a trained eye can spot problems before they turn into major repairs.
Professionals can detect things like leaks, pump issues, or imbalances in your filtration system that you might miss. Investing in routine check-ups keeps your pool running smoothly, protects its longevity, and often saves you money in the long run.
So, when was the last time a pro looked at your pool? If you can’t remember, it might be time to book an appointment.
2. Skipping Regular Cleaning
A clean pool isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about safety and efficiency too. Dirt, debris, and algae build-up can wreak havoc on your pool’s filtration system and make the water less safe for swimming.
Neglecting regular cleaning leads to clogged filters and murky water, which no one wants. Make cleaning a weekly habit, and don’t forget to brush the pool walls to prevent algae from taking hold. A little consistency goes a long way in keeping your pool crystal clear.
3. Ignoring Water Chemistry
Balancing your pool’s water chemistry might sound technical, but it’s a must. Failing to keep pH, chlorine, and alkalinity levels in check can turn your pool into a breeding ground for bacteria or irritate your skin and eyes.
Too much chlorine? You risk overexposure. Too little? You invite bacteria. And pH imbalances can cause corrosion or scaling on your pool’s surfaces. Invest in a good water testing kit and check the levels weekly. If you’re unsure, plenty of guides and apps can help you get it right.
4. Running the Pump Too Little—or Too Much
The pump is the heart of your pool system, circulating water and keeping it clean. But how long should it run each day? Some pool owners make the mistake of running it too little, which leads to stagnant water and chemical imbalances. Others overdo it, driving up energy costs unnecessarily.
A good rule of thumb is to run your pump for about 8-12 hours a day during peak swimming season, depending on your pool’s size and usage. If you’re unsure, consult your pool manual or ask a professional for guidance.
5. Neglecting the Pool Cover
Do you have a pool cover? If yes, are you using it? Covers aren’t just for keeping leaves out. They help maintain water temperature, reduce evaporation, and even cut down on chemical use.
Neglecting to cover your pool when it’s not in use can lead to unnecessary water loss and extra cleaning time. It’s a small step that can save you a lot of hassle. Make it part of your routine, especially during cooler months or when your pool isn’t in regular use.
6. Forgetting About Winterisation
If you live in a region with cold winters, failing to properly winterise your pool can cause serious damage. Water left in the pipes can freeze, expand, and crack, leading to costly repairs.
Draining water to the correct level, adding antifreeze to the lines, and covering the pool properly are all essential steps. Even if you don’t experience harsh winters, a good off-season routine helps protect your investment.
7. Overloading Your Pool with Chemicals
It’s easy to think that more chemicals equal a cleaner pool, but that’s not how it works. Overloading your pool with chemicals can cause skin irritation, damage equipment, and even make the water unsafe.
Always measure carefully and follow the guidelines for your pool size. Using automated chemical dispensers can help maintain balance without overdoing it. Remember, more isn’t always better.
8. Not Addressing Repairs Promptly
Have you ever spotted a small crack in your pool’s surface or noticed the pump making a strange noise but thought, “I’ll deal with it later”? That’s a slippery slope. Small issues tend to escalate quickly when left unchecked.
A tiny crack can grow into a major leak, and a noisy pump might signal a motor problem. Address repairs as soon as you notice them to avoid higher costs and bigger headaches down the line.
Enjoy Your Pool Without the Stress
Your swimming pool is meant to bring joy, not stress. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can keep it in excellent shape and focus on what really matters—enjoying it.
Think of these tips as part of your routine, just like mowing the lawn or changing the oil in your car. A little effort now goes a long way toward keeping your pool safe, clean, and ready for years of fun.
What’s your pool’s biggest challenge right now? Maybe it’s time to tackle that nagging issue and get back to enjoying your backyard oasis.
