How to Maintain Your Fibreglass Plunge Pool All Year Round

Owning a fibreglass plunge pool is one luxury that no one should deny himself, especially considering the low maintenance cost in comparison with other pools. Be it for a hot summer day to cool off or to relax after a long week, your fibreglass plunge pool provides you with both relaxation and style. Like any investment, though, proper maintenance is the way to go so it can be kept in good condition throughout the year.

In the following blog, we will take you through the best practices on how to care for your fibreglass plunge pool, from routine cleaning to taking care of the colours of your fibreglass pool, fibreglass swimming pool shells, and even brand-specific pools like Kinetic Pools.

1. Regular Cleaning Routine

Regardless of the season, cleaning your fibreglass plunge pool should be a priority. The size of the pool may be smaller than traditional pools, but debris and dirt still accumulate, especially in the warmer months.

Skimming and Scrubbing:

Begin by skimming the surface for leaves, bugs, and other debris. A long-handled net is a lifesaver here. Even in the colder months, it's good to remove debris, as it can stain the surface over time. Scrub the pool's walls and floor with a non-abrasive brush to prevent dirt buildup. Fibreglass is durable, but to keep it looking pristine, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive tools that might damage the surface.

Empty the Skimmer Basket Regularly:

Always remember to clean the skimmer basket every week, especially during the hot season when many leaves and other debris fall around. A full skimmer results in a low flow of water. This also will affect filtration because of the increased water turbidity.

2. Balance Your Pool's Water Chemistry

Maintaining the right water chemistry is important for the health of both your fibreglass plunge pool and the people who use it. Keep your water's pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels in check.

pH Levels:

The pH level for a fibreglass pool should be in the range of 7.4 and 7.6. The presence of high or low pH will make the water cloudy. It may damage the fibreglass pool shell. The use of either a pH increaser or decreaser can fine-tune this.

Chlorine and Alkalinity:

Test your chlorine and alkalinity levels regularly. Chlorine helps to disinfect your water and prevent the growth of algae and bacteria. If the levels are too low, you’ll notice water becoming murky, and if too high, the pool’s surface may begin to deteriorate. Maintain the alkalinity levels between 80-120 ppm to avoid any pH fluctuations.

Shocking the Pool:

Shock your fibreglass plunge pool every few weeks, especially during summer. Pool shock removes chloramines (combined chlorine) that may give off an unpleasant smell. This is done by adding a concentrated chlorine solution to the pool in the evening to dissipate overnight.

3. Check the Water Level Regularly

The water level in your pool should be at the halfway mark on your skimmer. The skimmer cannot effectively filter debris if the water level is too low, and excessive water can strain your pool's filtration system.

In the colder months, you may find that water evaporates at a slower rate, and you might need to top it up less frequently. However, it's important to keep an eye on it, especially if there are significant weather changes.

4. Inspect Your Pool Equipment

A vital part of your fibreglass plunge pool’s maintenance is checking the filtration system. Your pool’s pump, filter, and heater all need to be in working order year-round.

Filtration System:

You want to run your filter a minimum of 8 hours every day, even when it is winter, especially if you reside in warmer regions. Clean your filters regularly and monitor your pumps to ensure proper cleanliness and removal of debris in them. It also helps monitor if the pumps work properly and should not fail and cause muddled water.

Maintenance of Heaters:

If your fibreglass plunge pool is fitted with a heater, ensure that it is functioning properly. Clean the filters of the heater and check for corrosion, especially if you are located in areas where the water is hard. Regular servicing will ensure that your heater lasts longer and keeps the water warm when you need it.

5. Protect the Pool Surface and Fibreglass Pool Colours

If the fibreglass surface of your plunge pool is not cared for properly, it may fade or stain. To keep it looking great, it is necessary to protect the fibreglass pool shell and the pool's colours.

Avoid using harsh chemicals:

Chemicals such as bleach or strong acids can damage the fibreglass and cause your fibreglass pool colours to fade. Always use pool-safe products and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Stain Removal:

If you spot stains on the surface, brush them off carefully with a soft cloth. Specific fibreglass pool stain removers are also available, specially designed to target tough stains by removing stubborn stains without damaging the surface. If you don't know, use the product for the manufacturer or your pool technician.

Sun Protection

While fibreglass is resistant to UV rays, overexposure to the sun over time can cause the pool colours to fade. Consider using a pool cover in the off-season or during extended periods of sun exposure to protect both the fibreglass and the colour.

6. Consider Winterizing Your Fibreglass Plunge Pool

For those who experience colder months, winterizing your fibreglass plunge pool is a must. Winterizing helps prevent damage caused by freezing temperatures and ensures the longevity of your pool.

Drain the Pool:

Most of the fibreglass plunge pools are not deep enough to require draining to their bottoms, but ensure that you lower the water level below the skimmer and let all the remaining water in the pipes and filter system drain off. Such helps prevent freezing and damage from occurring in the plumbing.

Cover the Pool:

Investing in a good-quality pool cover is a great way to protect your fibreglass plunge pool during the winter. Covers not only prevent debris from entering the water but also help maintain temperature and prevent freezing of any remaining water.

7. Professional Maintenance

While proper maintenance is needed, there are situations where you would want professional skills. Pool such as fibreglass plunge pools, which is famous for its high-quality glass fibre swimming pool shells, can still require professional servicing from time to time. Professionals can look at the structure of your glass fibre plunge pool, find out possible underlying flaws, and give you solutions to maintain the integrity of the pool.

Conclusion

Maintain your fibreglass plunge pool year-round without all the hassle. A regular cleaning schedule, balanced water chemistry, and care of the fibreglass pool colours and the surface can make your plunge pool shine throughout the year, regardless of the season. Whether it's a Kinetic Pools or another brand, these tips will help you get the most out of your investment.

By taking the time to properly maintain your fibreglass plunge pool, you’re not only ensuring it stays beautiful but also extending its life and functionality for years to come. Happy swimming!