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How Often Should I Refill My Pool?

  • May 8, 2024
  • 2 min read

Updated: Oct 17

If you’ve ever wondered how often your pool needs fresh water, you’re not alone. While public pools are drained and refilled one to two times per year, homeowners in Arizona can go much longer between refills - as long as water quality and chemistry are properly maintained.


That said, even the best-maintained pools eventually need new water.


Why Draining and Refilling Is Important


There’s a common myth that if your pool’s filtration system is working and your chemicals are balanced, you never need to change the water.Unfortunately, that’s not the case — especially in Arizona’s hard-water conditions.


Over time, your pool water accumulates total dissolved solids (TDS), chemical residue, and bacteria. These can cause cloudy water, scale buildup, and even make it harder to maintain proper chemical balance.


That’s why professional pool technicians - including our team at Sunset Pool Care -recommend a complete drain and refill every 3–5 years in Arizona.

In Arizona, we recommend draining and refilling your pool every 3-5 years.

What Happens If You Don’t Refill Your Pool


When your water gets “old,” balancing it becomes increasingly difficult. Here’s what you might notice:


  • Persistent cloudy or dull water, even after shocking

  • Chlorine demand increases, meaning chemicals don’t last as long

  • Calcium buildup along tile and walls appears faster

  • pH and CYA (stabilizer) levels climb too high for adjustment

  • Algae returns shortly after cleaning or treatment


Fresh water helps reset your chemistry and extend the life of your pool finish and equipment.


Best Time To Refill Your Pool


In Arizona, the best times to drain and refill your pool are early spring or fall, when temperatures are moderate.Avoid draining during peak summer heat, as the sun and dry air can damage exposed plaster.


When you drain your pool, it’s also a great time for:



This ensures your pool gets a fresh start inside and out.


Other Reasons To Refill Sooner


Even if it hasn’t been 3–5 years, certain situations may call for an earlier refill:


  • You’ve struggled to balance CYA or salt levels for months

  • White calcium lines keep reappearing quickly

  • The water has a strong chemical odor or feels irritating to skin

  • You recently performed major cleaning or resurfacing work


Fresh water makes it easier to maintain balanced chemistry and keeps those white calcium lines away much longer.



Need Help Deciding If It’s Time To Refill?


If you’re not sure whether it’s time to drain and refill your pool, our team can help. At Sunset Pool Care, we inspect your water chemistry, calcium levels, and surface condition to recommend the best course of action.


Call 480-682-7986 or schedule service online. We’ll let you know if your pool needs a refill, deep clean, or acid wash - and handle the process safely and efficiently.



 
 
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