Whether you like it or not, winter is approaching, and by April, the number of times spent in your pool would be minimal to none, except if the pool is heated. If you believe that merely covering your pool or turning a blind eye to it during winter is a good option, you are mistaken. By doing so, you will risk causing significant long-term harm to your pool.
The simplest and most effective method is to spend effort every week in cleaning and maintaining your pool. By following these simple measures, you may dive headfirst into crystal clear water when the weather warms up again.
Winter Pool Maintenance: Do’s and Don’ts
Clean the walls and floor with a stiff bristle brush. After that, vacuum the entire pool. Remove leaves inside the skimmer baskets and the lint baskets of the pump. Performing all of these tasks in a regular manner, perhaps every two weeks can help keep your pool clean and functional.
Things You Must Do
Maintain a debris-free pool
Cleanliness is second only to Godliness, particularly when it refers to cleaning your pool during the winter season. If your pool is somewhat of an “oasis,” with foliage around the perimeter, it is very probable that leaves, insects, and other debris may have been blown into the pool. While the leaves and bugs on the surface might not seem a significant concern, it quickly becomes one when you will be forced to pay for costly filtration system maintenance.
If you invest with these three following products, you will prevent this problem and help maintain your pool in tip-top shape: a vacuum, a leaf scoop, and an algae brush. Additionally, clean your filter system on a regular basis.
Preserve the water
Regularly check and treat the pool water to keep the pH around 7.2 and 7.6. Maintaining a pH near this level inhibits the proliferation of algae and bacteria.
When it pertains to maintaining the health of your pool, it is critical to look after both the interior and exterior. You will have to invest in chemicals because getting leaves out and sucking dirt out with a vacuum is insufficient. A pool clarifier, an algaecide, and chlorine are required.
It is a brilliant idea to invest in algaecide since it will aid in the prevention of the growth of algae in your pool. The best part about some algaecides is that you will only need to apply one dose throughout the winter, as some solutions have a shelf life of up to 90 days. Additionally, use this a couple of days before closing the pool to eliminate the possibility of algae growth. Adding a clarifier will help the filter maintain a pristine appearance for your pool, as it helps to eradicate murky water.
Finally, but certainly not least, chlorine. Chlorine is the finest friend you can have in your pool. It is vital for the pool’s health and for your safety, as its purpose is to eliminate any pathogens that could make you and your loved ones get sick.
In summary, it is advisable to consult with a local pool professional and study the back labels to ensure that you are using the right product and delivering the appropriate dose for your pool.
Eliminate the algae
Once an algal bloom is detected, use the pool sanitizer to manage and eliminate the algae. Ascertain that they will be all removed in order to maintain a clean and healthy swimming pool.
Clean the filter on a regular basis
You should regularly remove any oil or grease buildup and clean the filter. Repeat cleaning with the same procedure throughout the winter months since any oils or grease remaining in the pool filters will solidify and become considerably more challenging to clean afterward.
Maintain a clean pool cover
This may seem self-evident, but cleaning the pool cover is needed. You compromise your pool’s ability to reach its full potential by failing to clean your pool cover. Moreover, maintaining a clean pool cover will prolong its life and decrease the possibility of dirt and creepy crawlies getting blown into your pool.
Protect the pool cover against falling branches and strong wind
Remove any tree branches which are dangling over the pool. Additionally, you can add a leaf net to catch falling leaves. Secure your pool cover tightly to prevent it from getting blown away or, worse, shredded by severe winter winds.
Run the filter daily
You are mistaken if you believe you can switch off the pool system and the filter once you are not going to use the pool. This may seem excessive, but maintaining the pool system and the filter on for approximately four hours every day would save you time, money, and energy in cleaning during the winter months.
Create a weekly schedule for maintenance
The easiest approach to maintain your pool is to create a Weekly Maintenance Plan. Weekly pool care should involve everything, including cleaning the inside and outside of the pool to test the water’s PH level. When it gets down to it, performing a small amount of work each week will save you time and enable you to dive in headfirst once the weather begins to heat up again.
Things to Avoid
Draining the pool completely
Never drain your pool completely. The drainage level of your pool is determined by the material used to construct it. Keep it at that level.
This is a challenging procedure, which is why the majority of pool owners hire specialists to drain the pool.
Turning off the filter for several weeks
Avoid turning off the pool filter for several weeks prior to winterizing the pool. Even if you are not going to use your pool for a couple of weeks, the water must be balanced and treated on a regular basis. Prior to closing, a professional will examine your pool’s treatment and pH level to guarantee a smooth winter closure. When the filter is not functioning for many weeks, the job becomes more difficult.
Being afraid to seek assistance
Winter pool maintenance requires a significant amount of time and work. Pool pros can guarantee that the swimming pool is properly maintained. They are your swimming pool care experts, so do not be afraid to seek their assistance.
