Pool and garden in a heatwave: essential care for August

In mid-August the Costa del Sol goes through its hottest weeks, often with spells of terral, the hot inland wind that sends temperatures soaring. It is exactly when the pool gets the most use and the garden takes the most punishment. A few specific measures prevent the two classic problems of the month: green water and scorched plants.

Pool water under pressure

With warm water and many swimmers, chlorine is used up far more quickly and the pH drifts easily. A pool that was fine with a weekly visit in June may need two in August.

• Extend filtration hours during the hottest weeks.
• Check chlorine and pH more often, especially after days of heavy use.
• Watch the water level: evaporation can leave the skimmers dry and damage the pump.
• Clean the baskets and the floor regularly so the filter is not overworked.

A garden that survives the summer

Irrigation should be programmed for the early hours or dusk, when the water does not evaporate before reaching the roots. It is worth checking the timer and the drippers every few weeks: a blocked dripper in August means a lost plant within days. Leaving the lawn slightly longer and protecting the base of plants with mulch helps to retain moisture.

"A guest will forgive many things, but not a cloudy pool in August. It is the complaint that does most damage to a review."

Responsible water use

In dry periods, town halls may set limits on filling pools or watering gardens, so it is important to check the municipal rules in force at any given time. Beyond the obligation, detecting a leak in the pool or the irrigation system early avoids very high bills.

Terraces, awnings and furniture

The August sun wears out fabrics and dries out wood. Bringing cushions in at night, checking the fixings of awnings and parasols ahead of gusty weather and shading the seating areas extends the life of the furniture and improves the experience of those who use it.