A Complete Homeowner’s Guide for Cape Town & the Western Cape
Completing a fibreglass lining on a newly built concrete swimming pool is an exciting investment for any homeowner. Whether your property is in Cape Town, Durbanville, Bellville, Brackenfell, Somerset West, Strand, Constantia, Bishopscourt, Mitchells Plain or surrounding Western Cape suburbs, the steps you take immediately after installation will determine how long your pool surface lasts and how easy it is to maintain clean, sparkling water.
This in-depth guide explains exactly what to do after your fibreglass-lined pool is completed, with practical advice, professional recommendations, and trusted local resources.
1. How to Fill Your Pool Correctly After Fibreglass Lining
Once your installer confirms the fibreglass lining has fully cured, the pool can be filled.
Correct Filling Method
- Use municipal tap water only
- Do not use borehole, well point, dam, or river water unless professionally approved
- Place the hose on the deep-end floor
- Fill the pool continuously without stopping
- Stop filling once the water reaches mid-skimmer level
Stopping and starting the filling process can leave visible waterline marks and affect the curing consistency of the fibreglass.
In Cape Town, municipal water quality differs slightly between suburbs, making professional water testing essential after filling.
2. Where and Who to Consult for Pool Water Chemical Balancing
Best Place to Test Pool Water (Strong Recommendation)
The most accurate and reliable place to test your pool water is:
- Professional pool service material suppliers
- Dedicated pool shops
- Established pool maintenance specialists
These providers use calibrated digital testing equipment, far more accurate than home test strips.
Retailers such as Builders Warehouse pool chemicals and swimming pool accessories can supply chemicals and equipment, but they should not replace professional water testing for initial balancing.
Homeowners may also encounter chemical brands supplied by The Pool Team South Africa swimming pool chemicals, which is a recognised industry supplier. While these products are widely used, correct dosing should always be based on professional water test results.
Internal Source:
Pool Water Testing and Chemical Balancing Services in Cape Town – Pools Reno
External Sources:
- Builders Warehouse pool chemicals and swimming pool accessories
- The Pool Team South Africa swimming pool chemicals
3. Understanding Your Pool Filtration System
Your filtration system is responsible for circulating, cleaning, and sanitising your pool water.
Main Components
- Pool pump
- Sand or cartridge filter
- Multiport selector valve
- Skimmer and return jets
In leaf-heavy suburbs such as Constantia, Durbanville, and Somerset West, efficient filtration is especially important to prevent blockages and algae growth.
Many professional-grade systems installed in Cape Town pools are manufactured by Poolquip swimming pool pumps and filtration equipment and AstralPool South Africa pool equipment and systems, which are useful references for understanding industry-standard equipment.
Internal Source:
Pool Filter Repairs and Installations in Cape Town – Pools Reno
External Sources:
- Poolquip swimming pool pumps and filtration equipment
- AstralPool South Africa pool equipment and systems
4. How to Use the Multiport Selector Valve Correctly
⚠️ Always switch the pump OFF before changing valve positions.
Multiport Valve Settings Explained
Filter
Normal daily operation. Water passes through the filter and returns to the pool.
Backwash
Reverses water flow to clean the filter media.
Rinse
Resettles filter sand after backwashing.
Waste
Bypasses the filter. Used to lower water levels or vacuum heavy debris.
Recirculate
Circulates water without filtering. Useful during chemical treatments.
Closed
Stops all water flow. Never run the pump on this setting.
Incorrect valve use is one of the most common causes of pump and filter failure.
5. Pool Pump Timer Settings and Recommended Daily Run Time
Recommended Pump Run Time for Cape Town Pools
- Summer (Oct–Mar): 8–10 hours per day
- Winter (Apr–Sep): 4–6 hours per day
Best Time to Run Your Pool Pump
- Early morning is ideal
- Split cycles (morning and late afternoon) can improve efficiency
Running your pump during daylight hours improves chlorine effectiveness and helps prevent algae, especially during Cape Town’s hot summer months.
Internal Source:
How Long Should You Run Your Pool Pump in Cape Town?
6. When, Why, and How to Backwash Your Pool Filter
Why Backwashing Matters
Backwashing removes trapped dirt, oils, and debris from the filter. A clogged filter reduces circulation and water clarity.
Signs Backwashing Is Needed
- Filter pressure rises by 0.5–1 bar
- Weak return jets
- Cloudy water despite balanced chemistry
Step-by-Step Backwashing Process
- Switch pump OFF
- Set valve to Backwash
- Switch pump ON for 2–3 minutes
- Switch pump OFF
- Set valve to Rinse
- Run pump for 30–60 seconds
- Switch pump OFF
- Return valve to Filter
Internal Source:
Sand Filter Servicing and Repairs in Cape Town
7. Basic Requirements for a Healthy, Sparkling Pool All Year Round
Core Pool Care Essentials
Balanced Water Chemistry
- pH: 7.2 – 7.6
- Chlorine: 1–3 ppm
- Total alkalinity: 80–120 ppm
Consistent Filtration
- Daily pump operation
- Clean filters
Routine Cleaning
- Skimming
- Brushing
- Vacuuming
Professional Support
- Regular water testing at pool shops
- Seasonal inspections
- Preventative servicing
Fibreglass pools are low maintenance, but not maintenance-free.
Internal Source:
Professional Pool Maintenance Services in Cape Town and Surrounding Areas
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How soon can I swim after a fibreglass-lined concrete pool is completed?
Once the pool is fully filled, professionally balanced, and chlorine levels are safe, swimming is usually possible within 24–48 hours.
Where is the best place to test pool water?
The most accurate place to test pool water is at professional pool shops or pool service material suppliers. They use calibrated digital testing equipment and provide proper dosing advice for fibreglass pools.
How long should I run my pool pump every day in Cape Town?
In Cape Town, run your pool pump for 8–10 hours per day during summer and 4–6 hours per day during winter. Running during daylight improves filtration and chlorine effectiveness.
How often should I backwash my pool filter?
Most pools require backwashing every 1–2 weeks or when the filter pressure gauge rises by 0.5–1 bar. Backwashing maintains circulation and water clarity.
Do fibreglass pools require special maintenance?
Yes. Fibreglass pools need balanced water chemistry, non-abrasive chemicals, proper filtration, and regular professional water testing to prevent staining, algae growth, or surface damage.
Can I use borehole or well point water in a fibreglass pool?
Borehole or well point water should only be used if professionally tested and approved. Untreated groundwater can cause chemical imbalance and staining in fibreglass pools.
