Is Your Pool a Time Bomb? Hidden Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid

How much time, money, and stress could you save if your pool just worked the way it should? You wouldn’t be alone in thinking that a pool is a low-maintenance luxury. A splash here, a skim there, and maybe a top-up on the chemicals. Job done, right?

Not exactly.

Hidden maintenance mistakes could be quietly turning your pool into a massive headache. Ignoring these issues doesn’t just make for an unsightly swim. It can cost thousands in repairs, drive up your bills, and even shorten the life of your pool.

Let’s explore the common pitfalls that pool owners often fall into, and more importantly, how to avoid them.

No.1 – Not Scheduling Professional Maintenance

It’s easy to fall into the habit of only calling in a professional when something looks or smells off. But by the time there’s green water or cracked tiles, the damage is often already expensive.

Professional pool maintenance Perth isn’t just about spotting obvious problems. It’s about catching the ones you can’t see, such as tiny cracks in the lining, blocked filters, and malfunctioning pumps. Regular checks can prevent major repairs before they even start.

A good rule of thumb is to have a professional inspect your pool at least once every season. More often, if you have heavy usage or harsh weather.

Skipping this is like skipping dentist appointments for years, then being shocked at the huge bill when you finally go. Prevention is always cheaper than the cure.

No.2 – Using the Wrong Chemicals

It’s tempting to grab whatever is on sale or use up what you have left from last season. But pool chemistry isn’t a guessing game.

Incorrect chemical levels don’t just make the water unpleasant. They can corrode your pool equipment, stain the lining, and even cause health issues for swimmers.

Common chemical mistakes include:

• Over-chlorinating damages liners and irritates skin and eyes
• Low pH levels corrodes metal fixtures and pool heaters
• Unbalanced calcium causes scaling on surfaces and clogs pipes
• Ignoring stabiliser levels lets chlorine burn off too quickly under the sun

Keeping your water properly balanced protects both your pool and your health. Always test regularly and follow instructions carefully. Guesswork is never your friend here.

No.3 – Running the Pump for Too Little Time

Think you’re saving money by limiting your pump’s operating hours? Short pump times can be a silent pool killer. The pump is your pool’s circulatory system. If water doesn’t circulate enough, debris builds up, algae forms, and chemicals aren’t distributed properly. Over time, this can wreck the water quality and strain your entire filtration system.

Most pools need around 8–12 hours of pump time a day, depending on their size and usage. Skimping on this not only risks dirty water but could eventually burn out your pump from the added strain. If you’re unsure, aim for one full cycle of your pool’s water through the filter system daily. It’s a small cost upfront that saves you big in the long run.

No.4 – Ignoring Water Levels

Water levels are more important than most people realise. Too low, and your pump can suck in air, causing serious (and expensive) damage. Too high, and your skimmer might not work properly, leading to poor filtration.

Things that affect your water level include:

• Splash-out from use – daily swimming, especially with kids, drops levels fast
• Evaporation – hot, dry days can steal surprising amounts of water
• Rainwater – heavy rain can overflow your pool, diluting chemicals

Checking your water level once or twice a week is an easy habit to build. Keep it about halfway up the skimmer opening for best results.

No.5 – Letting Debris Sit

A few leaves floating around don’t seem like a big deal. However, over time, debris left in your pool can cause significant problems. Organic material, such as leaves and dirt, introduces phosphates into the water, which serve as prime food for algae. They can also stain your pool’s surface and clog your filter system if left unchecked.

Here’s what builds up faster than you think:

• Leaves trap moisture and breed bacteria
• Twigs scratch liners and surfaces
• Dead bugs affect water chemistry
• Dust and pollen cloud your water

Skimming daily and emptying your skimmer baskets weekly should be non-negotiable. It keeps your water looking clear and your system running smoothly.

No.6 – Forgetting to Brush

You might vacuum the bottom of your pool regularly, but brushing the sides and steps is just as important. Algae and grime can cling to walls and corners, places that your vacuum misses. Left untouched, they start eating away at your pool’s surfaces and create slick, unsafe areas.

Make it a weekly task to brush:

• Steps and ladders
• Corners and crevices
• Waterline tiles
• Behind pool lights

Use the right brush for your pool type — a softer brush for vinyl and a stiffer brush for concrete. It doesn’t take long, but it makes a big difference in keeping your pool healthy.

No.7 – Overlooking Pool Covers

Covers aren’t just for keeping out leaves. They also help retain heat, reduce chemical usage, and minimise evaporation.

Leaving your pool uncovered for long periods means more debris to clean, higher heating bills, and more frequent chemical top-ups. It’s an unnecessary waste.

Whether you have a simple tarp cover or a more advanced fitted one, using it regularly extends the life of your pool and cuts down your maintenance work.

No.8 – Putting Off Minor Repairs

A small crack in a tile. A little tear in the liner. A slow drip from a pipe. Easy to ignore, right?

The problem is, water always finds a way. Minor issues can quickly escalate into major structural damage if left alone.

Fixing small problems as soon as they appear keeps costs low and prevents bigger headaches later. Treat your pool like you would your house — small maintenance jobs now prevent huge repairs later.

Protect Your Pool, Protect Your Peace of Mind

A pool should be a source of joy, not constant stress. By staying ahead of these hidden mistakes, you’re not just keeping the water clean; you’re protecting your investment, your time, and your sanity.

Taking a little extra care now means many more seasons of carefree swimming ahead. After all, the best pool problems are the ones you never have to deal with at all.