Pool and Spa Maintenance Checklist for Melbourne Homeowners

Owning a pool or spa in Melbourne comes with year round maintenance responsibilities. Unlike warmer climates where pools are used consistently, Melbourne's variable weather means your pool goes through dramatic seasonal shifts. Proper maintenance ensures safe water quality, extends equipment life, and keeps running costs manageable.

Weekly Maintenance Tasks

• Test water chemistry — check pH (7.2 to 7.6), free chlorine (1 to 3 ppm), and alkalinity (80 to 120 ppm). Test strips are convenient but liquid test kits are more accurate
• Skim the surface — remove leaves, insects, and debris before they sink and decompose
• Empty skimmer baskets — full baskets reduce pump efficiency and can burn out motors
• Brush walls and floor — prevents algae from establishing on surfaces
• Check water level — evaporation in Melbourne's dry summers can drop levels significantly. Top up to maintain proper skimmer function

Monthly Maintenance

• Clean or backwash the filter according to manufacturer guidelines
• Inspect pool pump, checking for unusual noises, leaks, or reduced flow
• Test calcium hardness (200 to 400 ppm) and stabiliser levels (30 to 50 ppm)
• Check and lubricate O-rings on pump lids and chlorinator cells
• Inspect caulking and sealing around pool coping and expansion joints

Seasonal Care for Melbourne

Summer (December to February)

Peak usage means more frequent chemical testing, ideally twice weekly. Increase chlorine levels slightly to account for higher bather loads and UV degradation. Clean the solar heating panels if fitted to maximise efficiency.

Autumn (March to May)

Falling leaves are the biggest challenge. Consider a leaf net cover to reduce debris. Reduce pump run times as temperatures drop. Service the heater before winter if you plan to heat through the cooler months.

Winter (June to August)

Don't neglect your pool in winter. Algae can bloom in cold water if chemistry isn't maintained. Reduce pump run time to 4 to 6 hours daily. Keep the cover on when not in use to retain heat and prevent debris entry.

Spring (September to November)

Spring is when pools need the most attention. Shock treat the water, thoroughly clean all surfaces, service the pump and filter, and test all equipment before the swimming season begins.

Spa Specific Maintenance

Spas require more frequent water testing than pools due to higher temperatures and smaller water volumes. Drain and refill your spa every 3 to 4 months. Clean the spa shell with a non-abrasive cleaner and inspect jets for calcium buildup. Our pool and spa maintenance service handles all of this on a scheduled basis.

When to Call a Professional

Call a professional if you notice persistent green or cloudy water despite correct chemistry, pump or filter problems, cracked tiles or coping, or if your salt chlorinator cell needs replacement. Our team services pools and spas across Brighton, Toorak, Kew, and all Melbourne suburbs.

Book a pool service or call 1300 556 513 for a free assessment.