How to Clean an Infinity Pool: A Step-by-Step Guide for Homeowners

Infinity pools offer breathtaking views and a luxurious aesthetic, but they also come with unique maintenance needs. Because the water continuously spills over the edge into a catch basin or reservoir, cleaning and upkeep differ from traditional pools.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to clean an infinity pool efficiently and safely, whether you’re doing it yourself or coordinating with a professional pool care service.

Understanding How an Infinity Pool Works

Before you clean, it’s essential to understand the structure:

• Main Pool Basin: The area where you swim.

• Catch Basin (or Trough): Collects water spilling over the edge.

• Surge Tank (Optional): Acts as a holding tank to balance water levels.

• Pump System: Circulates water from the catch basin back to the main pool.

Each component must be cleaned to maintain proper circulation and prevent buildup.

Step-by-Step for Cleaning an Infinity Pool

1. Skim the Pool and Catch Basin Daily

Use a telescopic skimmer to remove leaves, bugs, and debris:

• Skim both the main pool and the catch basin.

• This prevents clogs in the pump and improves water quality.

2. Brush the Pool Walls and Overflow Edge

Infinity pools tend to collect scum and algae around the edge:

• Use a soft pool brush to scrub the interior walls.

• Clean the spillway and overflow lip where buildup occurs.

3. Vacuum the Pool Weekly

Manual or automatic vacuums help maintain crystal-clear water:

• Focus on corners and areas near the spill edge.

• For consistent cleaning, consider robotic pool vacuums.

4. Empty and Clean the Skimmer and Pump Baskets

Debris can quickly clog skimmers:

• Clean the pump basket and skimmer basket weekly.

• Also inspect the overflow catch basket in the reservoir.

5. Check and Clean the Filters

Filtration is vital in infinity pools due to the constant water flow:

• Rinse cartridge or sand filters regularly.

• For better efficiency, consider professional filter cleaning services.

6. Test and Balance Pool Water Chemistry

• Unbalanced water can damage surfaces and irritate skin/eyes:

• Check chlorine, pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness.

For pools with heavy use or inconsistent readings, schedule a one-time pool service to reset the chemistry.

7. Clean the Catch Basin Thoroughly

This is a unique and often overlooked step:

• Remove visible debris.

• Brush and vacuum the basin weekly.

• Inspect for algae growth or water discoloration.

8. Inspect Overflow Edges and Drainage

Ensure proper drainage from overflow to the reservoir:

• Check for blockages or algae on the infinity edge.

• Clear any buildup that could slow water flow.

9. Schedule Seasonal Deep Cleaning

Spring and fall are ideal times to deep-clean the pool system:

• Includes scrubbing, filter overhaul, and water level checks.

• Consider pool opening and closing services for hassle-free seasonal maintenance.

Final Thoughts

Infinity pools offer stunning aesthetics but require diligent upkeep due to their continuous circulation and exposed surfaces. With a regular cleaning routine and the right professional support, you can keep your pool in peak condition year-round.

From skimming the basin to cleaning filters and balancing water chemistry, every detail matters. When in doubt, partner with a trusted pool care expert to ensure your investment stays clean, safe, and inviting.

FAQs

How often should I clean an infinity pool?

Basic cleaning like skimming and brushing should be done daily or every few days. More intensive maintenance like vacuuming and filter cleaning can be weekly or bi-weekly.

Do infinity pools require more maintenance than regular pools?

Yes. The overflow system, catch basin, and additional plumbing mean there are more components to inspect and clean regularly.

Why does my catch basin water look dirty even if the main pool is clean?

The catch basin collects more debris and often has stagnant areas, making it more prone to dirt, algae, and cloudiness if not cleaned regularly.

What happens if the infinity edge gets clogged?

A clogged edge can prevent proper water circulation, leading to imbalanced water levels and pump strain. It’s important to keep the spillway clear.

Can I use regular pool chemicals in an infinity pool?

Yes, but dosage should be monitored closely since the circulation system works differently. Always test before adjusting chemicals.

Is professional maintenance recommended?

Absolutely, especially for filter cleaning, seasonal maintenance, or if water chemistry becomes unstable.

Should the catch basin have its own filter?

Some systems do. If yours doesn’t, it’s even more critical to manually remove debris and clean it thoroughly.