Let's Prepare Your Fibreglass Pool For Winter: Our Top 10 Tips
As the temperature begins to drop, many pool owners turn their attention away from the backyard. But preparing your fibreglass pool for winter isn’t just about covering it and forgetting about it—it’s about keeping it healthy, clean, and ready for when swimming season returns.
If you’ve invested in a fibreglass pool, proper winter care can help extend its lifespan, protect your equipment, and save you time and effort down the track. Whether your pool is brand new or well-loved, a few simple steps now can make all the difference.
Here are our top 10 tips to help you get your fibreglass pool winter-ready.
1. Clean the Pool Thoroughly
Before you even think about adjusting the water chemistry or putting on the cover, start with a good clean. Skim off any leaves, bugs, or debris from the surface, then give the walls and floor a brush to remove any dirt or algae.
Vacuum the pool to ensure no debris is left to sink and cause staining or circulation problems during the colder months. A clean pool is much easier to maintain over winter and prevents build-up that could affect water quality.
2. Balance the Water Chemistry
Water balance is just as important in winter as it is in summer. In fact, unbalanced water left untreated can cause long-term damage to your fibreglass shell and filtration equipment.
Check and adjust:
- pH levels (ideal range: 7.2–7.6)
- Total alkalinity
- Calcium hardness
- Chlorine or sanitiser levels
Use a reliable water testing kit or take a sample to your local pool professional. Getting the chemistry right now means fewer problems when you’re ready to swim again.
3. Shock the Water
A pool shock helps eliminate bacteria, organic contaminants, and invisible nasties that may be lingering in the water. Shocking the pool before closing it for winter helps keep it cleaner and clearer over the coming months.
Once you’ve added the shock treatment, allow the pool to circulate for several hours before moving to the next steps. Make sure chlorine levels have settled before covering the pool to avoid damage to the cover material.
4. Lower the Water Level (If Needed)
Depending on your location and pool setup, you might choose to lower the water level slightly to reduce the risk of overflow from winter rain.
For fibreglass pools with integrated skimmer boxes or auto-fill systems, check manufacturer guidelines or ask a pool technician before lowering the water too much. Over-lowering can expose parts of the structure that are best kept wet.
5. Clean the Filter and Pump Basket
Don’t forget the equipment. Your filter, pump basket, and skimmer basket collect a lot of debris during the swimming season. Cleaning them thoroughly before winter ensures they won’t harbour bacteria or contribute to water quality issues.
Backwash or rinse cartridge filters as needed and make sure there’s no gunk stuck in any of the baskets. A clean system now reduces wear and tear on your gear during the off-season.
6. Adjust the Pump Run Time
With cooler temperatures, your pool won’t need as much filtration as it does during peak summer months. But you should still run the pump daily to keep the water moving and prevent stagnation.
Adjust the timer to run for a few hours each day—usually four to six is enough, depending on the size of your pool and how shaded it is. Regular circulation helps prevent algae growth and supports chemical distribution.
7. Use an Algaecide or Winterising Product
To give your pool extra protection, consider adding a long-lasting algaecide or dedicated winterising treatment. These products are designed to reduce the risk of green water, staining, or scale while the pool is not in regular use.
Follow the product directions carefully and make sure it’s suitable for fibreglass surfaces. Always run the pump after application to ensure even distribution.
8. Cover the Pool Properly
A well-fitted pool cover can be your best defence during winter. It keeps debris out, reduces evaporation, and helps maintain consistent water quality.
When selecting or reinstalling your pool cover, check for:
- Secure attachment points
- No visible rips or tears
- Proper overlap at the edges
Avoid leaving the pool uncovered for extended periods—even if the weather looks clear. Covers are especially helpful in windy, dusty, or tree-heavy areas where debris quickly builds up.
9. Check for Leaks or Equipment Issues
Winter is a great time to take stock of your pool and equipment. If you’ve noticed any drops in water level, reduced pump performance, or unusual noises, now’s the time to investigate.
Inspect seals, pipes, and fittings for signs of leaks or wear. Small issues can worsen over time if left unaddressed, especially during the cooler months when conditions can mask symptoms.
10. Keep Up With Periodic Checks
Winter pool care doesn’t stop once the cover goes on. Schedule a quick check every two to four weeks to monitor water levels, chemical balance, and general condition.
Things to monitor include:
- Water clarity
- Filter pressure
- Debris accumulation on or around the cover
- Equipment function if you’re running the pump
These quick check-ins ensure nothing gets out of hand and help you stay ahead of any unexpected issues.
A Little Effort Goes a Long Way
Fibreglass pools are known for their durability and low maintenance—but that doesn’t mean they should be left alone all winter. A bit of preparation now helps protect your pool from damage and reduces the work needed when warmer days return.
With just a few straightforward steps, you can maintain water quality, preserve your equipment, and enjoy a much smoother start to the next swim season.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your fibreglass pool for winter doesn’t need to be complicated. By taking time to clean, balance, protect, and inspect your pool, you’re setting yourself up for success—saving time, money, and hassle in the long term.
Even during the colder months, your pool remains a valuable part of your home. Treating it with care all year round means it’ll be ready and waiting when the sun comes back out.
Final Thoughts
A fibreglass pool is a fantastic investment for any family home, but its true value lies in the memories you make when everyone is safe and cared for. With built-in safety features, thoughtful design, and a proactive approach to supervision and education, you can create a family-friendly oasis that brings joy and peace of mind for years to come.
At the end of the day, safety isn’t about limiting fun—it’s about making sure the fun never stops. By taking the right steps now, you’re not just installing a pool—you’re building a lifetime of secure, sun-soaked memories.
Ready to take the plunge? Speak to our trusted local fibreglass pool installer to explore your options and start designing your backyard oasis today.
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