21/03/2025
Autumn Leaves & Pool Grief – How to Keep the Peace in New Zealand
So, you’ve just had a beautiful new pool installed by Justham Pools—or maybe even a competitor (we won’t judge). Either way, that shimmering blue water is your new backyard pride and joy. But as autumn rolls in, something strange starts happening. The trees? They’ve declared war.
Suddenly, every leaf within a 10-kilometre radius seems determined to take a final dive—right into your pool. If you thought you could relax after installation, think again! But don’t worry. Keeping your pool in top shape during autumn doesn’t have to be a full-time job.
Why Leaves Are Your Pool’s Worst Enemy
At first, a few leaves floating on the surface might seem harmless—maybe even picturesque. But let them sit too long, and you’ll end up with:
✅ Clogged Pool Pumps & Filters – Your pool’s circulation system isn’t designed to chew through a forest. Too many leaves can block the skimmer, strain the pump, and lead to costly repairs.
✅ Algae’s Best Friend – Rotting leaves release organic matter, turning your pool into an all-you-can-eat buffet for algae. Before you know it, your pristine water is murky green.
✅ Chemical Chaos – As leaves break down, they mess with your pool’s pH and chlorine levels. The more unbalanced your pool water becomes, the more chemicals (and money) you’ll need to fix it.
How to Win the Battle Against Leaves
🍂 Skim Like a Pro – A daily skim keeps leaves from sinking to the bottom. A good-quality leaf net and a few minutes a day will save hours of cleaning later.
🍂 Use a Pool Cover – The easiest way to keep leaves out? Stop them from getting in. A pool cover is your best friend in autumn, reducing maintenance time and keeping the water warmer.
🍂 Check & Clean Your Filter – Your filter works overtime catching autumn debris. Rinse or backwash it regularly to keep everything running smoothly.
🍂 Invest in a Robotic Pool Cleaner – If skimming isn’t your thing, a robotic pool cleaner is a game-changer. It vacuums up leaves and debris while you sit back and enjoy the view.
Final Thought
Leaves may fall, but your pool doesn’t have to suffer. A little effort now will keep your pool looking great and ready for swimming whenever the sun decides to come out again.
Just got a brand-new pool? Make sure it stays in top shape this autumn—your future self will thank you!