With cooler weather moving in its time to start thinking about how to get your pool ready for winter.
Even though your pool may go unused the next few months, taking the right measures to protect it will be a big help in extending its life and ensuring that it’s ready to go come spring.
Thanks to the generally mild winters in Texas a full winterization of pools is not necessary. These basic tips should be sufficient in protecting your own pool this winter.
1. Balance the Water
Getting started you’ll need to balance the water. The pH balance is important for water clarity as well as the durability of the pool equipment.
A pH level between 7.2 and 7.6 is recommended to maintain a comfortable level for swimmers while remaining sanitized during the winter months.
2. Clean the Pool
This is an important step as it can prevent any damage or surface stains. Don’t get lazy, be sure to remove any leaves or debris because the longer they sit, the more difficult it will be to remove them later on.
3. Clean the Filter
Be sure to clean the filter before closing down for the winter. This will make things easier when you open back up in the spring.
4. Correct the Chemicals
Find the correct chemicals to protect your pool from algae. Algae poses an aesthetic issue, making water appear cloudy, but can also clog your filters and increase the demand for chlorine.
5. Leave Some Water Behind
Leave some water behind, while many think draining your pool completely makes sense for the cold weather it can actually put more strain on the system. The right chemicals (whether its chlorine shock, algaecide, or stain prevention) will protect your pool and keep the water clean and in working order.
6. Choose the Right Cover
Using the right cover will do wonders for your pool! It will keep debris out and keep the pH level balanced.
Pro-Tips to Help Winterize Your Pool
- Start winterizing at least one week before you plan to close your pool by adding a phosphate remover that will keep any algae issues at bay.
- Brush and vacuum the pool.
- Allow the pump to run for a full cycle before backwashing and chemically treating your filter.
- Install an air pillow to place in the center of the pool.
- Check the chemical balance monthly to make certain everything is in order.
- Water should be consistently below 65 degrees before closing down. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself with a pesky algae problem.
- Shock the pool 4-7 days before closing and then add the algaecide when you plan to cover the pool. Doing both on the same day can cancel out the strength of the algaecide.
We Can Help
Have you started to winterize your own pool? We hope these tips will be helpful in ensuring a smooth transition to the winter months.
If you have some doubts about your pool’s integrity, schedule an inspection with us.
You can read one of our older posts to get the gist of a pool inspection.
We’re here for you!
Get in touch with us, and we’ll be out to inspect within 48 hours, guaranteed!