3 Tips for Proper Pool Maintenance During Vacation

Planning a vacation can be exciting, but for pool owners, it also means ensuring that your pool stays clean and functional while you're away. Without proper attention, pools can quickly turn into breeding grounds for algae, debris, and other unwanted problems. To help keep your pool in top shape, here are three essential tips for proper pool maintenance during vacation. Following these steps will allow you to relax knowing your pool will be in great condition when you return.

Pool Maintenance During Vacation

Clean the Pool Thoroughly Before Leaving

Proper cleaning is one of the most important steps in pool maintenance before any vacation. Skim the surface of the water to remove leaves, dirt, and other floating debris. Next, use a vacuum to clean the pool floor and brush down the walls to remove any algae buildup. A clean pool is less likely to develop major problems while you’re away.

Pay special attention to the waterline, where grime tends to accumulate. This simple act of cleaning can prevent stains from forming during your absence. Once you’ve removed all debris, empty the skimmer and pump baskets to improve circulation. A final step is to test and balance the water chemistry. Ensuring proper pH and chlorine levels will help stop algae growth, keeping your pool healthy while you're away.

Use a Leaf Net Cover to Protect Your Water

Covering your pool with a leaf net cover is an essential part of vacation pool maintenance. A high-quality leaf net cover prevents debris like leaves and twigs from falling into the water. 

Make sure to inspect your pool cover for any damage before you leave. A torn or worn-out cover won’t offer the protection your pool needs. If you don’t already have a leaf net cover, it’s a good idea to invest in one before leaving on vacation.

Use a Pool Pump Timer

A properly timed pump is essential for pool maintenance when you're not around. Your pool’s pump is responsible for circulating the water, which helps distribute chemicals and prevent stagnation. Without circulation, pool water can become a breeding ground for bacteria and algae. It’s vital to adjust the pump settings to ensure the water stays filtered while you're away.

Set your pool pump to run for at least 8 to 12 hours a day, depending on your pool size. Running the pump too little can lead to poor circulation, while overworking it can waste energy. A timer will help automate this process, so you don’t have to rely on someone else to turn the pump on and off.

*Many times following tips #1 and #2 are sufficient. Following tip #3 could be risky as a running filter without at least daily supervision is more susceptible to a leak and/or the pump burning out. If you have no reason to doubt your filter system and its attachments, tip #3 works out to be another great way to ensure proper pool maintenance during vacation.

Bonus Tip: Ask a Neighbor or Friend for Help

While automating your pool’s care with timers and covers helps, sometimes it’s good to have a human touch. Ask a trusted neighbor or friend to check on your pool while you're away. They can skim the surface, check chemical levels, and make sure the pump is running smoothly.

Providing them with a simple checklist will make the task easier. For instance, instruct them to remove any large debris, check the water clarity, and ensure the pump hasn’t malfunctioned. This extra layer of attention ensures that even if something goes wrong, it can be addressed before it becomes a big problem.