How to Take Care of Your New Fibreglass Pool

Understanding Your Fibreglass Pool

Despite their low maintenance, fibreglass pools still require some care. To keep your pool looking as good as new, you’ll need to follow a few key maintenance practices to maintain water quality, prevent damage to the surface, and ensure all equipment is functioning optimally.

1. Maintaining Water Quality

One of the most crucial aspects of pool maintenance is ensuring that the water remains balanced. Poor water quality can cause various problems, such as cloudy water, irritation to your skin and eyes, and even damage to the fibreglass surface. The key to maintaining clean and safe pool water is regular testing and adjusting of water chemistry.

pH Balance

The pH level of your pool water should be kept between 7.2 and 7.8. If the pH is too high or too low, it can cause discomfort for swimmers, affect the efficiency of sanitising chemicals, and lead to surface damage.

Alkalinity

Alkalinity is another factor that helps stabilise your pool’s pH. Aim for a total alkalinity level of 80-120 parts per million (ppm). If it is too low, your pH levels can fluctuate, leading to unstable water conditions. To raise alkalinity, add sodium bicarbonate as directed by the product instructions.

Calcium Hardness

The calcium hardness of your pool should be maintained between 200-400 ppm. If the calcium levels are too low, the water can become corrosive and damage the fibreglass surface. On the other hand, if the calcium levels are too high, it can cause scale buildup, which can stain the pool and clog the filter.

Test your calcium hardness regularly and adjust the levels as needed by adding calcium chloride if the levels are low.

Chlorine and Sanitising

To keep your pool clean and free from harmful bacteria, you’ll need to regularly sanitise the water. Chlorine is the most commonly used pool sanitiser, and it helps to kill germs and keep the water clear.

Keep your chlorine levels between 1-3 ppm, and adjust accordingly. There are various forms of chlorine available, such as tablets, liquid, and granular, and each has its pros and cons. Use the type that best suits your pool size and budget.

2. Regular Cleaning

While fibreglass pools are low-maintenance, they still require regular cleaning to maintain their appearance and hygiene. Regular cleaning prevents debris from accumulating, keeps the water clear, and protects the pool’s surface.

Skimming and Sweeping

Use a skimmer net to remove leaves, twigs, and other debris from the surface of the water. In addition to skimming, you should also use a pool brush to scrub the walls and floor of the pool. This helps to prevent the growth of algae and other contaminants that can damage the fibreglass surface.

Vacuuming

Vacuum your pool regularly to remove dirt and debris from the bottom of the pool. You can use a manual or automatic pool vacuum. Automatic vacuums are great for low-effort cleaning, while manual vacuums give you more control over the cleaning process.

If you have a lot of debris or dirt accumulating at the bottom, a weekly vacuuming schedule should suffice. Otherwise, adjust the frequency based on your pool’s needs.

3. Check Your Pool Equipment

Your fibreglass pool’s equipment plays a vital role in maintaining water cleanliness and pool efficiency. Regularly check the filtration system, pump, and other equipment to ensure everything is functioning correctly.

Filter Maintenance

For a sand filter, backwash it every 4-6 weeks or when the pressure gauge indicates it’s time. Cartridge filters should be removed and cleaned with a hose or special filter cleaner every 1-3 months.

Pump and Skimmer Baskets

Inspect the pump and skimmer baskets frequently to remove any debris that could block the flow of water. A clogged pump or skimmer can reduce the efficiency of your filtration system and may lead to pump damage over time.

Pool Heaters and Salt Systems

If you have a pool heater, check it periodically for any signs of damage or malfunction. Ensure the heater is operating efficiently and safely.

If you use a saltwater system, monitor the salt levels regularly to ensure they’re within the recommended range. Cleaning the salt cell every few months will help it function properly.

4. Protecting the Fibreglass Surface

The fibreglass surface of your pool is one of its most valuable features, as it is durable and resistant to algae growth. However, it is still essential to protect the surface from damage, discolouration, and staining.

Use a Pool Cover

Using a pool cover when the pool is not in use can protect the fibreglass surface from UV rays, dirt, and debris. A good quality cover will prevent leaves and debris from falling into the water and reduce the need for cleaning.

Avoid Sharp Objects

To prevent scratching or damaging the fibreglass surface, avoid allowing sharp objects (such as pool toys with hard edges) into the pool. Be mindful of the materials you place on the pool floor to avoid abrasion.

5. Seasonal Maintenance

Fibreglass pools require extra care during seasonal changes. In Australia, the pool’s use can fluctuate due to changing weather patterns, so you’ll need to adjust maintenance practices accordingly.

Winterising Your Pool

During the cooler months, it’s essential to prepare your fibreglass pool for winter. Clean the pool thoroughly, check the water chemistry, and lower the water level to just below the skimmer. You can also remove any pool accessories that might be damaged by freezing temperatures.

Summer Care

During the warmer months, when you use the pool more frequently, be prepared for higher levels of debris and more wear on the filtration system. Increase the frequency of cleaning and testing the water to maintain ideal swimming conditions.

Conclusion

Maintaining your fibreglass pool is essential for keeping it looking great and functioning correctly. By regularly testing your water, cleaning your pool, checking your equipment, and protecting the surface, you can enjoy a beautiful, hassle-free swimming experience for years. With just a bit of care and attention, your fibreglass pool will continue to be a stunning addition to your home, providing endless enjoyment and relaxation for you and your family.

Get in touch and we can help you with your Fibreglass pool needs today!