As the weather cools and the pool cover goes on, many pool owners start wondering what to do with their pool system through winter. One of the most common questions is: How long should you run your pool system in winter?
It’s a fair question. No one wants to waste electricity running the pump unnecessarily, but turning everything off can create more problems than it solves. So, how do you strike the right balance?
This guide will explain why winter filtration still matters, how much you need to run your system in Perth’s mild climate, and how to keep things low-maintenance until spring rolls around.
Why You Still Need to Filter in Winter
Even if no one’s swimming, your pool water still needs to move. Without circulation, water becomes stagnant. That’s when problems like algae, bacteria, cloudy water, and staining start to appear.
Running your pool filter helps keep the water clean and the chemicals balanced. It also stops debris from settling and makes setting up for spring much easier.
If you stop filtering completely through winter, especially in a place like Perth, where winters are mild, you’ll likely end up with a green, murky mess that takes time and money to fix.
The General Guideline to Pool Filters in Winter
There’s no universal answer, but most pool professionals recommend 4 to 6 hours of filtration per day during the winter months, depending on your location, pool setup, and maintenance habits.
Here’s a practical breakdown:
-
Cooler regions (e.g., Victoria, Tasmania): Run the filter for 3 to 4 hours a day, especially if your pool is covered and water chemistry is stable.
-
Milder climates (e.g., Western Australia): Perth’s winter is gentle, but not free of algae risks. Aim for a minimum of 4 hours a day (depending on your pool size) to keep the water moving and prevent issues, especially if the pool is uncovered or exposed to debris.
-
Heated pools still in use: Treat them like summer pools and run the filter for 6 to 8 hours daily, as warm water still supports bacteria and algae.
Tip: Short, consistent cycles every day are better than skipping days or running a long session once in a while. Your pool water needs steady circulation, filtration and sanitisation to stay healthy.
How to Save on Energy Without Cutting Corners
Winter is the perfect time to scale back without compromising water quality. Here are some smart energy-saving strategies:
-
Use the sun's energy: To reduce running costs, run your pump during sunlight hours if you have PV panels producing electricity. Don't run the pump at night!
-
Switch to an energy-efficient pump: Variable-speed pumps use less power and let you run longer, gentler cycles for improved efficiency.
-
Keep your filter clean: A blocked filter forces your pump to work harder. Backwash or rinse your cartridge regularly for optimal performance.
-
Adapt to the weather: After storms or windy days, extend run time temporarily to manage extra debris or contaminants.
With these steps, you’ll maintain healthy water while reducing your energy use.
Complementary Winter Pool Care Tips
Filtration is just one part of keeping your pool in good shape over winter. For best results, pair your filter schedule with these simple habits:
-
Test your water regularly: Even in winter, check your pool’s pH, chlorine, and alkalinity. Perth’s winter rain can affect water chemistry more than you think.
-
Chlorine: 1–3 ppm
-
pH: 7.2–7.6
-
Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm
-
Calcium Hardness: 200–400 ppm
-
Skim and empty baskets weekly: Leaves and debris that sit too long in your skimmer baskets can stain surfaces and deplete your chlorine levels.
These extra steps reduce the workload on your pump and prevent issues from developing while the pool’s not in regular use.
When to Increase Filtration Again
As spring approaches and water temperatures rise, gradually increase your filtration time. Watch for:
-
Dull or cloudy water
-
Algae growth
-
Increased bugs or debris
-
Water temps reaching 20°C or more
Add an hour progressively until you return to your summer schedule, usually around 6 to 8 hours a day. If you’ve maintained your pool through winter, this transition should be seamless.
Ready to Simplify Your Winter Pool Care?
For most residential pools in Perth, running your filter for around 4 hours a day during winter is the sweet spot. It maintains circulation, prevents algae, and keeps your power bill manageable.
With a little regular upkeep and smart energy use, you’ll avoid the need for a major spring clean and keep your pool in great condition all year round.
Need help fine-tuning your pool care routine? Get in touch with Pool Assist. Our team offers expert guidance tailored to your pool equipment, setup, and location, so your pool stays sparkling through every season.