Still Falling: Why January Leaves Are Wreaking Havoc on Houston Pools

Up north, most pool owners close their systems by October and forget about them until spring. But in Houston, winter has its own rhythm — and right now, that rhythm includes a lot of falling leaves.

January in Houston is peak leaf-drop season. Oaks, elms, and other deciduous trees are just now shedding what’s left of their foliage, and much of it is landing directly in your pool. If you’ve noticed more skimming, more clogging, or more mystery noises from your equipment lately, you’re not alone.

Now’s the time to take a few simple steps to protect your pool — and your wallet — from unexpected damage this off-season.

Why Leaves Are a Bigger Problem Than They Look

A few leaves in the water might not seem like a big deal. But over time, they cause serious issues:

• Clogged skimmers and pumps — restricting water flow and straining your system

• Stained surfaces — from tannins in decaying organic matter

• Unbalanced water chemistry — as decomposing leaves release phosphates

• Algae growth — especially if circulation or filtration is disrupted

When leaf buildup goes unchecked, it can reduce your equipment’s efficiency and lifespan — and lead to bigger maintenance headaches in spring.

Don’t let this seasonal mess sneak into your skimmer.

What You Can Do This Month

You don’t need a full pool overhaul in January, but a little attention now can go a long way. Focus on:

1. Skim Regularly — Even if You’re Not Swimming

Try to remove surface debris before it sinks. If your pool is near large trees, daily skimming may be needed during peak drop.

2. Empty Baskets and Clean Filters

A full skimmer basket or a clogged filter reduces water flow and puts strain on your pump. Clean them out a few times a week during leaf season.

3. Check Water Levels and Circulation

Falling leaves can interfere with automatic systems. Make sure your pump is running properly and that water is circulating to prevent algae.

4. Use a Leaf Net or Cover If Needed

If your pool is heavily shaded or surrounded by trees, consider a leaf net cover to catch debris without fully sealing the pool.

Bonus: Watch the Chemistry

Even in cooler weather, organic debris in your pool water can cause chemical imbalances. A quick water test — or professional service visit — can help you stay ahead of any issues before they require shock treatments or specialty products.

Final Thought

Just because you’re not using the pool right now doesn’t mean you can ignore it. In Houston, January’s leaves are one of the biggest threats to pool systems — and they tend to fall when no one’s paying attention.

A few minutes of care this month can prevent costly repairs later.

If you’re short on time (or tired of fighting the skimmer basket), Sparkling Pools is here to help. We offer seasonal service plans that keep your pool healthy — even when it’s too cold to swim.

Let us handle the leaves, so spring arrives with clear water and zero surprises.