How to Prepare Your Ibiza Villa Pool for Summer 2026

Summer in Ibiza means one thing for villa owners: your pool needs to be perfect. Whether you've winterized properly or let it sit, here's your step-by-step guide to getting it guest-ready.

Step 1: Inspect Everything

Before adding any water or chemicals, do a full visual inspection:

• Check the pool surface for cracks, stains, or algae growth
• Inspect the pump, filter, and chlorinator for damage or corrosion
• Look at skimmer baskets, return jets, and drain covers
• Check pool cover (if used) for tears or debris trapped underneath
• Test that all electrical connections are safe and dry

Step 2: Clean and Fill

• Remove the pool cover and clean it before storing
• Brush all walls, steps, and the waterline thoroughly
• Vacuum the bottom (manual or robotic cleaner)
• Top up the water level to the middle of the skimmer opening
• If the pool was drained, refill slowly to avoid pressure damage to the shell

Step 3: Start the Equipment

• Prime the pump (fill with water before switching on)
• Check for leaks around the pump, filter, and plumbing connections
• Run the filter for 24 hours on initial startup
• Clean or replace the filter media if it's been more than a year
• Check the salt chlorinator cell (if applicable) for calcium buildup

Step 4: Balance the Chemistry

This is where most people get it wrong. The order matters:

1. Test everything first — pH, chlorine, alkalinity, stabilizer (CYA), calcium hardness
2. Adjust alkalinity — target 80-120 ppm
3. Adjust pH — target 7.2-7.6
4. Shock the pool — use calcium hypochlorite or liquid chlorine
5. Add stabilizer — especially important in Ibiza's strong sun (target 30-50 ppm)
6. Wait 24 hours, test again, and fine-tune

Step 5: Set Your Schedule

Once your pool is clear and balanced, establish a weekly routine:

• Weekly chemical testing and adjustment
• Daily skimming during peak season (or hire a service)
• Filter run time: 8-12 hours per day in Ibiza summer heat
• Monthly filter deep clean
• Check water level weekly (evaporation is high in Ibiza — up to 5cm per week)

When to Call a Professional

DIY works for simple pools, but consider professional help if:

• Your pool is green, cloudy, or has visible algae
• Equipment makes unusual noises or doesn't prime
• You rent the villa and need consistent guest-ready quality
• You're not on the island full-time
• The pool is large (60m²+) or has complex equipment