Pool Maintenance and Efficient Heating: A Guide for Residential Homeowners

Pool Maintenance and Efficient Heating: A Guide for Residential Homeowners

Owning a pool in Tasmania is a great way of embracing the Tasmanian spirit of outdoor living. Our island's natural beauty and moderate climate offer the ideal setting for aquatic enjoyment. Beyond relaxation, a pool becomes the heart of family gatherings and a hub for social fun, well-being and relaxation.

Tasmania's climate, with its diverse seasons ranging from chilly winters to mild summers, calls for a versatile approach to pool ownership. To fully immerse yourself in the outdoor lifestyle and make the most of your pool year-round, efficient heating is the key.

Imagine taking a dip in your pool during a crisp Tasmanian winter morning or enjoying a swim on a mild summer night. It's all possible with the right pool heating solution.

This guide explores pool maintenance and heating options that align with Tasmania's climate, allowing you to relish your pool whenever the mood strikes. Whether you're a long-time pool owner or considering joining the proud Tasmanian pool-owning community, we are here to help you extend the swimming season and create memories.

Pool Maintenance Tips
To get the most out of your pool experience and maintain your investment, a little love and attention will keep your oasis in top condition. 

Regular hands on cleaning will extend the lifespan of your pool  and it’s inbuilt cleaning system: 

• Skim the pool surface remove leaves and other debris
• Vacuuming weekly will eliminate dirt and sediment
• Regularly brushing the walls and tiles will prevent unhealthy algae buildup 
• Use an automated pool robotic cleaner which does it all for you

Maintain the proper water chemistry: 

• Regularly test and balance the pool’s pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels to prevent corrosion, algae growth, and cloudy water.

Filter care:

• Always ensure that you clean or backwash the pool filter as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Replace filter cartridges as needed to ensure efficient water circulation.

Inspect and repair pool equipment:

• Regularly check for leaks in pipes, pumps, and valves.
• Ensure the pool heater and other automated equipment is in good working condition.

Winterizing Your Pool

Pools in colder climates - like Tasmania - should be ‘winterized’. If you aren’t using your pool during the winter and colder months you need to prepare it. An unused and neglected pool is a breeding ground for harmful bacteria that can cause everything from respiratory problems to gastrointestinal issues. 

Additionally, if you haven’t prepared your pool for downtime - when you’re ready to plunge back in 4, 5, or 6 months later it’s not only going to be unhealthy (even if it doesn’t look like it) - it may hit you hard in the hip pocket. 

You need to go the extra mile by cleaning it thoroughly, and checking and cleaning all of your equipment, balancing the water, and adding a long-lasting algae killer. 

Some other key considerations are: 

• Check your chlorine levels - if you aren’t using an algae killer, you want the chlorine levels high enough to do the job. In some cases it’s recommended you increase the chlorine levels - but you’ll have to balance the water back out again either way before using it. 
• Schedule maintenance - you still need to check everything while the pool isn’t being used and consider shortening your filter times. 
• Maintain your water levels - if it drops below the skimmer you risk damaging your equipment. 
• Run the water pump for a few hours each day to turn the water over, and keep the chemicals circulating. 
• Cover your pool - it means less cleaning for you and less pressure on your filters, and it keeps the sun out which minimises evaporation. 

Efficient Heating with Reverse Cycle Heating
If you want to swim all year round - particularly in Tasmania -  implementing reverse cycle heating, also known as a heat pump, is an energy-efficient way to heat your pool. 

While there are various products and manufacturers in this space, no matter what you select, these are our expert tips on how to make the most of your pool heating system: 

• Choose the right size: Ensure your heat pump is appropriately sized for your pool to optimise heating efficiency.
• Set the temperature wisely: Maintain a comfortable pool temperature, avoiding excessive heating to conserve energy.
• Use a pool cover: Invest in a quality pool cover to minimise heat loss when the pool is not in use, significantly reducing heating costs. 
• Regular maintenance: keep the heat pump clean and free of debris for optimal performance. Schedule professional maintenance to check for refrigerant leaks and overall efficiency.
• Take advantage of off-peak hours: If your electricity provider offers off-peak rates, run your heat pump during these times to save on energy costs.
• Consider solar heating: Supplement reverse cycle heating with solar panels to further reduce operating costs.

The Sackett Difference

At Sackett Services, we specialise in pool maintenance and heating solutions, and we're dedicated to providing top-notch services to enhance your pool ownership experience. 

Here's how we can assist you:

• Assess Your Pool Equipment: We'll thoroughly evaluate your current pool equipment to ensure it's functioning optimally and meeting your needs.
• Equipment Upgrade Recommendations: Based on our expertise, we'll recommend any necessary equipment upgrades to improve efficiency and performance.
• Energy-Efficient Solutions: We'll advise you on the most energy-efficient equipment and control systems, helping you save on energy costs while maintaining your pool's comfort.
• Detailed Upgrade Proposal: You'll receive a comprehensive, itemised proposal outlining the recommended upgrades, ensuring transparency in the process.
• Supply and Installation: Our team will handle the supply and professional installation of the recommended equipment, ensuring it's set up correctly.
• Customised Operating Practices: We'll provide you with detailed instructions tailored to your specific needs, ensuring you get the most out of your pool and its equipment.

With Sackett Services, you can trust that your pool will be in expert hands, benefiting from efficient equipment and personalised guidance. 

Talk to us today for a superior pool ownership experience.