At Auckland Inground Pools, we know that owning a concrete pool is one of the most rewarding ways to enjoy your outdoor space. But with Auckland’s unique climate and seasonal shifts, regular pool maintenance isn’t something to overlook. To help you protect your investment and keep your pool looking great year-round, we’ve put together this seasonal guide with specific tips tailored to our region’s conditions.
Whether you’re bracing for the summer heat or prepping for a quieter winter, here’s how we recommend maintaining your concrete pool through Auckland’s seasons.
Understanding Auckland’s Climate and How It Affects Concrete Pools
Why Our Climate Requires Season-Specific Care
Auckland’s weather can shift quickly warm and humid in summer, wet and cool in winter, with plenty of wind, tree debris, and sea salt exposure throughout the year. These fluctuations can impact everything from your pool’s water chemistry to its structural health. Unlike fibreglass or vinyl pools, concrete pools are more porous and responsive to environmental changes, which means they need consistent attention.
How Seasonal Changes Affect Concrete Pools
As temperatures rise and fall, concrete expands and contracts. This natural process can lead to surface cracks or deterioration if not addressed early. Water chemistry is also affected by UV levels, rainfall, and bather load—each of which changes with the seasons. Staying on top of these shifts helps prevent larger issues like algae blooms, staining, and filtration problems.
Summer Maintenance Tips for Concrete Pools in Auckland
Combatting Evaporation and Heavy Use
Summer is peak swimming season in Auckland, which also means it’s the most demanding time for pool maintenance. Concrete pools tend to lose more water to evaporation, especially on hot days or when exposed to constant sun and wind. We recommend checking your water level at least once a week and topping up as needed to avoid straining your pump and filtration system.
Using a solar pool cover when the pool isn’t in use can help reduce evaporation, retain heat, and minimise debris—all of which reduce your workload.
Maintaining Balanced Water Chemistry
With more people using the pool, chlorine is depleted faster and pH levels can swing wildly. Sunscreen, body oils, and dirt all throw your chemical balance off, especially in concrete pools where the surface interacts more actively with the water.
We advise testing the water at least twice a week during summer. Keep chlorine levels steady between 1.0–3.0 ppm, pH around 7.4–7.6, and monitor calcium hardness to prevent scaling or etching.
Keep Your Filters and Skimmers Running Clean
Concrete pools can trap debris more easily than smoother surfaces, especially in areas like steps or benches. Stay on top of skimming and vacuuming to prevent organic build-up. Run your filtration system for 8–10 hours daily, depending on usage, and clean out skimmer baskets every couple of days.
Autumn Pool Care: Preparing for a Seasonal Shift
Dealing with Leaves and Debris
At Auckland Inground Pools, we know that Autumn in Auckland means cooler days and more leaf litter. Left unattended, organic matter can stain your concrete surface and promote algae growth. Use a leaf net regularly and consider investing in a pool cover if you’re under heavy tree cover.
A robotic cleaner can be a worthwhile upgrade this time of year—especially one with strong suction and wall-climbing capabilities.
Adjust Your Pool Settings for Reduced Use
As usage drops, reduce filtration time to around 6–8 hours a day. However, don’t make the mistake of switching everything off—your concrete pool still needs circulation and chemical balancing to stay healthy.
We typically reduce chlorine dosing by about 25% during autumn but still check levels weekly. You may need to adjust pH and alkalinity due to rainfall and temperature changes.
Winter Maintenance for Concrete Pools in Auckland
Should You Cover Your Pool in Winter?
While Auckland doesn’t freeze, winter brings high rainfall, cooler air temperatures, and fewer swim days. A pool cover is optional but beneficial—it keeps out debris, slows algae growth, and stabilises water temperature. Just be aware that excessive rain can dilute your chemicals or introduce contaminants, so don’t assume the pool’s “on pause.”
Prevent Surface Damage and Algae
Concrete pool surfaces need to stay clean and brushed even in the off-season. Algae doesn’t hibernate—it thrives in neglected pools, particularly on rough or porous surfaces like concrete. Brushing once a fortnight and running your pump for 4–6 hours a day is usually enough to prevent issues.
Also, monitor calcium levels. Cold water can pull calcium from the pool surface, leading to etching if the balance isn’t maintained.
Spring Cleaning and Pre-Swim Preparation
Give Your Pool a Full Refresh
Spring is when we recommend a thorough inspection and clean. Brush the entire pool surface, vacuum the floor, clean your tile line, and shock the water to eliminate any lingering contaminants. Check for stains or surface marks and treat them before summer starts.
Concrete pools may need an acid wash every few years to remove persistent staining, especially if they’ve been under-maintained through winter.
Inspect and Test All Equipment
Before the warmer months hit, take the time to inspect your pump, filter, chlorinator, lights, and heating system. Look for leaks, weak flow, or any warning lights. It’s much better to catch issues in spring than during a peak-use weekend in December.
Year-Round Essentials for Concrete Pool Owners
Keep Testing Your Water Regularly
We recommend testing your pool water weekly during summer and fortnightly through the colder months. A good test kit is essential, or you can bring a sample in for professional analysis if you’re unsure. Don’t let your concrete pool go months without balancing—it’ll cost you more in surface damage than you save in skipped maintenance.
Surface Inspections Shouldn’t Be Skipped
Concrete pools are extremely durable, but they’re not immune to wear. Keep an eye out for hairline cracks, pitting, or calcium deposits. These are easier and cheaper to fix early on. If in doubt, get in touch—we can inspect and advise on whether repairs or resurfacing are needed.
When Professional Maintenance Makes Sense
If life gets busy or you simply want peace of mind, we offer regular pool servicing tailored to concrete pool owners across Auckland. We take care of the seasonal transitions, ongoing water chemistry, and any wear-and-tear that pops up along the way. Letting our team manage your maintenance can help prevent long-term issues and keep your pool in top condition year-round.
Stay On Top of Seasonal Maintenance and Get the Most Out of Your Pool
Owning a concrete pool in Auckland is a long-term investment in your lifestyle—but it comes with responsibility. With a little seasonal upkeep, you’ll enjoy crystal-clear water, a smooth surface, and fewer costly repairs.
If you need help with maintenance, inspections, or just want advice specific to your concrete pool, contact us today. We’re here to help you get the best out of every swim, no matter the season.
