Some summers bring record heat in many areas of the country — that’s the bad news. The good news is that hot summers bring record pool time for swimming pool owners! But, even the hottest of summers come to an end, so it’s time to start thinking about closing your pool for the winter.
Winterizing a pool isn’t too difficult, but there is definitely a right way and a wrong way to do it. And given that doing it the wrong way can lead to anything from a minor inconvenience when a poorly secured cover slips into the pool and has to be retrieved, to costly damage when pipes that aren’t properly blown out freeze and crack, you want to avoid the mistakes that come back to haunt some pool owners in the spring.
Pool Closing Missteps You Don’t Want to Make
We’ve written blog posts in the past about what you should do to winterize your pool. Putting a different spin on it, here are things you definitely should NOT do when winterizing your pool.
- Do NOT forget to adjust the pool pH to 7.2-7.8. This pH level will prevent staining, scaling, and algae growth.
- Do NOT skip the shock step. Shock the pool as directed on the product packaging.
- Do NOT skimp on filtering. Be sure to run your filter for anywhere from 24 hours (if the pool water is fairly clean) to 48 hours (if the pool water is very dirty) prior to closing the pool.
- Do NOT forget to vacuum the pool thoroughly and skim out any floating debris.
- Do NOT forget to add an algaecide to inhibit algae growth.
- Do NOT “trust your gut” when it comes to lowering the water level in the pool. Follow the pool manufacturer’s directions. Many pools do better during the winter if they are partially filled. Only a few types of pools must be completely emptied.
- Do NOT forget to turn off the filter pump and drain the pump, filter heater, other equipment, and plumbing. And remember to read the manufacturer’s instructions on lubricating and covering equipment.
- Do NOT forget to turn off all power to the support equipment and remove fuses or flip the circuit breakers to off.
- Do NOT leave a diving board or slide in place all winter. These items should be detached and stored.
- Do NOT cut corners on your pool cover. You want a quality cover that is strong, durable, and weatherproof.
- Do NOT fail to properly secure your pool cover, including attaching and tightening straps as appropriate and ensuring that the edge of the cover is tight to the deck surface so wind can’t get under it.
Avoid the Mistakes Above, But Don’t Avoid Us
If you have questions about anything from purchasing a winter cover to putting it on your pool, your local independent Latham Independent Builder has answers. Don’t hesitate to contact us. We want your pool-closing experience to be easy and mistake-free!
Join the discussion