How to Prepare Your Pool for a Holiday or Time Away

How to Prepare Your Pool for a Holiday or Time Away
Introduction

Heading off on holiday? It is crucial to properly prepare your pool before you leave because returning to green water and algae or equipment problems is avoidable.

At Deep Blue, we offer fast-acting products, smart automation tips, and expert guidance to keep your pool in top shape — even when you’re not around.

1. Clean Thoroughly Before You Go

Start with a deep clean:

Skim debris
Brush walls and floor
Vacuum manually or run your pool cleaner
Empty skimmer and pump baskets

2. Test and Balance the Water

Use Deep Blue Test Strips to check:

pH: 7.2–7.6
Chlorine: 1–3 ppm
Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm

Adjust as needed using Deep Blue’s easy-to-dose balancers. The water remains free from corrosion and scaling when you are away from home.

3. Shock the Pool

Apply Deep Blue Shock Granules the night before you leave. The solution destroys organic contaminants and extends the duration that chlorine remains at elevated levels.

4. Add an Algaecide

Preventative application of Deep Blue Long-Life Algaecide should be performed as directed. Algae remains controlled even when heat is high and the pool is inactive.

5. Use Chlorine Tablets in a Dispenser

Chlorine tablets that float in the water will maintain the sanitizer levels throughout your vacation period. A slow-dissolving stabilized chlorine tablet provides the best outcome.

6. Set a Timer for the Pump

Your pump should operate for at least eight hours daily. Before your departure, you should install a timer if your system lacks this feature.

7. Cover the Pool

A pool cover either solar or thermal type minimizes water loss through evaporation and stops the formation of debris and protects water chemistry from UV exposure.

8. Ask a Friend or Pool Pro to Check In

When you plan to stay away for 7-10 days or more you should arrange for someone to:

Test the pool water and add necessary chemicals
Check the pool for leaks or other problems
Clean the skimmer baskets

Optional Add-Ons

Install an automatic chlorinator
Use a robotic pool cleaner on a timer
Add a floating dispenser lock for added safety
Peace of Mind with Deep Blue

All our products are:

Everyone watching your pool can easily use our products.
Safe and stabilised to last while you’re away

Loyalty Perks

Prepare your pre-holiday purchases in advance to collect points that you can later redeem when you return. Redeem your points after returning home to purchase:

Shock treatments
Test kits
Accessories and tools

Conclusion

An unprepared pool will result in expensive cleanup operations. A short period of planning and correct Deep Blue products will enable you to enjoy your time away with peace of mind knowing your pool water remains safe and inviting upon your return.

FAQs

How long can I leave my pool unattended?

A properly prepared pool along with timer settings and cover can stay unattended for two weeks.

Can I use granules instead of tablets?

Granules provide their best effect during short periods of time. Tablets work better for continuous dispensing throughout multiple days.

Should I lower the water level before going?

Normal water levels should be maintained but you should verify that your drainage and overflow systems are functioning properly.

What if it rains while I’m away?

A well-covered, pre-treated pool should be fine. Heavy rain may dilute chemicals slightly.

Is it worth using a pool monitoring system?

Smart monitors provide a benefit to pool owners because they detect chemical changes when you are away from home. These systems prove beneficial to people who travel often.