Caring for your pool while you are away
Leaving for one or two weeks without the water turning: it is a matter of preparation. The goal is to balance the water, ensure disinfection that lasts, and programme the filtration.
In short
Before an absence, stabilise everything: perfectly balanced water, long-lasting disinfection (tablets, or salt electrolysis), and filtration programmed to run automatically at the right hours. The water level should be full to absorb evaporation. For a long absence, it is also better to have a neighbour check in.
Before you leave
Set the water balance (pH, alkalinity, chlorine, stabiliser), clean the pool and filter, then set up disinfection that lasts: long-lasting chlorine tablets in the skimmers or a dispenser, or programmed salt electrolysis. Top up the water level to the maximum to offset evaporation.
While you are away
Programme the filtration on a timer so it runs during the warmest hours, with a slightly longer duration than usual as a safety margin. A cover limits evaporation and debris. For more than two weeks, or in high heat, ask someone to check the level and the look of the water.
What to do, step by step
Balance the water thoroughly
pH, alkalinity, chlorine and stabiliser in the right ranges before leaving: balanced water holds better.
Set up long-lasting disinfection
Long-lasting tablets in a dispenser, or programmed salt electrolysis, for continuous chlorine.
Programme the filtration
Set the timer for the warm hours, with a slightly extended duration as a safety margin.
Top up and cover
Fill the water level and cover the pool; for a long absence, have someone check in.
Frequently asked questions
How long can a pool go without maintenance?
Well prepared (balanced water, long-lasting disinfection, programmed filtration), one to two weeks without intervention is realistic. Beyond that, a check-in becomes wise, especially in summer.
Should I leave the filtration running while away?
Yes, programmed on a timer. Unfiltered water over several hot days turns very fast: filtration is the best insurance.
What should I do on my return?
Check the water, adjust the pH and chlorine, and clean if needed. If the water has dulled a little, extended filtration usually re-clarifies it.