Pool maintenance is a constant process all year around – even during winter. If you won’t be using your pool for several months during cooler temperatures, it’s a good idea to be proactive and ensure your pool is right for summer.

To guard against the build-up of algae in the pool, make sure the pool interior gets a thorough clean. Scrub the surrounding tiles, get into corners and vacuum up all the debris at the end to give the swimming pool water a better chance of survival.

A ‘shock treatment’ means adding a solid dose of chlorine to the water before and during winter to keep it fresh. Products such as Aqua Health Pool Shock or Aqua Health Instant Pool Pellets are a good place to start.

Make sure you run the pool pump for some hours after application so the product spreads evenly through the water.

In preparation for those months you won’t be in the pool, make sure everything is running smoothly, by thoroughly cleaning out pool filters, skimmers and other equipment. This will aid the ongoing cleaning process and also eliminate the chance of germs and debris developing into something much worse.

Bits of pool scum or scaling left in the filter will be tougher to remove if left untouched over winter.

A pool cover or blanket will keep stray leaves and other debris out of the water and minimise evaporation. However, pool algae can fester in water that is covered for a long period of time, so be sure to roll the blanket back to air out the water from time to time.

Don’t neglect your pool equipment just because it’s too cold to go swimming. It’s best to keep an eye on all facets of the pool – switch on the filters and automated cleaning systems for a few hours at a time each week, to make sure they’re not seizing up.

If you’ve let your water quality go for a bit, before the cooler months is the time to lift your game. It’s vital the pH, chlorine and alkaline levels are at their optimum before the end of the swimming season.

PH levels should ideally be between 7.4 and 7.6. Check with your local pool supplier about a water-testing kit or service.

Contact a pool supplies retailer in your area to find out how you can keep your pool in great shape over winter: