Seasonal Pool Maintenance: What Should Be Done (and When)
Owning a pool is a year-round commitment, even when it’s not swim season. Neglecting small tasks at the wrong time of year can snowball into expensive repairs—and issues that show up during a professional pool inspection.
Whether you're a first-time pool owner or just want to stay ahead of costly surprises, here’s a season-by-season guide to what your pool needs—and when.
Spring: Reopen and Refresh
As temperatures rise, it’s time to bring your pool out of hibernation. This is arguably the most important season for catching and correcting problems early.
Spring Maintenance Checklist:
Remove and clean the pool cover
Reconnect equipment (pump, filter, heater, salt cell)
Top off water levels
Test water chemistry thoroughly
Shock the pool and rebalance chemicals
Inspect for cracks in plaster, tile, or decking
Look for signs of leaks or worn seals
Clean filters and pump baskets
Tip: This is when we often find unnoticed winter damage—like cracked pipes or failed pump seals. A visual check in early spring can prevent bigger headaches come summer.
Summer: Monitor and Maintain
During peak usage, your pool needs the most attention. Warm weather and increased activity make it easier for water chemistry to get off balance—leading to cloudy water, algae, or skin irritation.
Summer Maintenance Checklist:
Test and adjust chlorine, pH, and alkalinity levels 2–3 times per week
Clean skimmer and pump baskets weekly
Vacuum and skim debris regularly
Brush pool walls and tile lines
Backwash filters as needed
Check and monitor water levels (especially after heavy rain or heatwaves)
Inspect visible equipment for unusual noise or wear
Tip: This is the best time to observe how your system handles full demand. We often see circulation issues, underperforming heaters, or salt systems that are overdue for a cell cleaning.
Fall: Prep for Downtime
As leaves start to drop, your pool needs more surface skimming and filter attention. It’s also the perfect time to start prepping for winter—or at least reduced use.
Fall Maintenance Checklist:
Skim leaves and debris often
Clean out and backwash filters
Begin reducing swim time and chemical usage
Lower water level (if closing for winter)
Blow out and plug lines (in cold climates)
Clean and store pool accessories
Cover the pool securely (if winterizing)
Tip: We sometimes spot deck or tile cracks that worsen with cold temps. Fall is a good time to address these minor issues before they turn into structural problems.
Winter: Protect and Preserve
If you live in a warm climate like here in South Carolina, your pool may stay open year-round—just with lighter use. In colder zones, a proper winterization plan protects your system from freezing damage.
Winter Maintenance Checklist (for closed pools):
Monitor water level under the cover
Keep the cover clean and clear of debris or snow
Check for standing water on the pool deck
Occasionally test water chemistry under the cover
Winter Maintenance Checklist (for active pools):
Run the pump during freezing temps to prevent line damage
Periodically test water chemistry (especially after storms)
Inspect equipment insulation and weather protection
Tip: A pool that’s been properly winterized will show far fewer issues during spring inspections. We’ve seen cracked return lines, damaged fittings, and even tile detachment due to improper closure.
Want to Stay Ahead? Use a Seasonal Pool Calendar
Staying on top of pool maintenance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. We recommend printing out or saving a seasonal checklist so you always know what to focus on.
Final Thoughts
Seasonal maintenance isn’t just about keeping the water clear—it’s about protecting your investment and preventing hidden damage. The most common issues we uncover during inspections are avoidable with a little foresight.
Staying proactive, even when the pool’s not in use, makes a huge difference come inspection time—or resale.
It is important to remember this list is not exhaustive. Always consult with a local, trusted, reputable, and insured pool service company.
