🛠️ Pool Equipment Maintenance Tips for a Longer Lifespan
Pool equipment isn’t cheap — and replacing it early due to wear and tear is a cost no one wants. The good news? A little care goes a long way in extending the life of your gear. Whether it’s your pump, filter, chlorinator, or cleaner, regular maintenance helps everything run efficiently, saves on power bills, and avoids bigger repair jobs down the track.
Here are our top tips to keep your pool equipment lasting longer:
1. Clean the Pump Basket Weekly
Your pump works hard to circulate water, but leaves, bugs, and debris can clog the basket quickly. A blocked basket makes the pump work harder — shortening its life and using more power.
🧺 Tip: Turn off power, remove the lid, empty the basket, and rinse it out weekly.
2. Backwash Your Filter Regularly
Whether you’ve got a sand or DE filter, it needs regular backwashing to clear out trapped dirt. A clogged filter strains the pump and reduces water flow.
💡 Pro Tip: For sand filters, backwash when the pressure gauge rises 8-10 PSI above the normal range.
3. Check for Leaks or Drips
Small leaks can turn into big problems fast. Inspect pipes, seals, and valves for any signs of water escaping.
🔍 What to look for: Damp patches, rust marks, or calcium build-up around joints.
4. Maintain Your Chlorinator
If you use a saltwater system, keep your chlorinator cell clean. Scale build-up reduces its ability to sanitise your pool effectively.
🧽 How: Soak in a mild acid solution (or use a salt cell cleaner) every few months — but always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
5. Protect Equipment from the Elements
Sun and rain can wear down your gear. Installing a pool equipment cover or shade box can help protect pumps, filters, and controllers from harsh weather.
☀️ Bonus: It keeps things quieter too!
6. Run Equipment on a Schedule
Don’t overwork your system. Running your pump for the right amount of time (usually 6–8 hours a day in summer, less in winter) helps avoid overuse and reduces power bills.
📅 Tip: Use a timer for consistency — and adjust based on the season.
7. Have It Serviced Annually
Even if everything seems fine, a professional check-up once a year can catch wear and tear early. We often spot cracked seals, blocked impellers, or misaligned parts that can cause major issues if left unchecked.
🧑🔧 Need a hand? Mick’s Pool Care offers scheduled servicing to keep everything running smooth.
Keep Your Gear Running Longer — We’ll Help!
At Mick’s Pool Care, we’re not just about keeping your water blue — we help protect your entire pool system. Regular maintenance extends the life of your equipment, saves money, and keeps your pool swim-ready all year round.
Need an equipment check or service?
📞 Call Us Today — Bringing Blue To You.