Many homeowners think that off-season pool maintenance consists of draining the pool water and throwing a pool cover on. That’s it. Unfortunately, it’s not that easy. Being a pool owner is a full-time responsibility that requires year-round maintenance for part-time enjoyment. Proper care and protection of your pool equipment during the colder months involves draining the pool water to the right level and adding winterizing chemicals, constantly checking the system to prevent freezing, regularly cleaning debris on and around the pool cover, and opening your pool early. Off-season months are also the best time for any swimming pools renovations, and Lehigh County residents and neighbors in the surrounding areas should contact us today to get an estimate.
In following these steps below, you’ll ensure a smooth reveal of your pool next spring!
Drain Water to the Right Level
If you think completely draining a pool of water will void the rest of the maintenance steps listed below, you’re wrong. Leaving a pool liner empty is an invitation for debris to damage the interior with rips and tears, not to mention the liner itself could dry out and crack. Ultimately, this will become a lot more expensive than some off-season low-maintenance efforts. We recommend draining in-ground pools so that the water level reaches 4-6 inches below the pool skimmer. Above-ground pools that have a removable pump and skimmer can be drained just enough to allow room for expansion.
Add Winterizing Chemicals
Winterizing chemicals are essential for keeping pools clean and safe during the colder months. The first step is always to test your pool water so you can make informed decisions about what your pool needs to survive the winter. Make sure you meticulously follow the instructions on the testing kit so that you can get the most accurate results. Then, balance the pH and chlorine levels as well as add algaecide and stain prevention chemicals. Algaecide is one of the most important winterizing agents available, as it will kill algae and other growth, making pool reopening procedures a breeze.
Check the System to Prevent Freezing
Freezing temperatures can cause a lot of problems in a home: frozen pipes, loss of heat, and damaged pool equipment. The best way to avoid frozen pipes is to run your filter pump all day and night. This will keep water circulating and maintain a constant temperature. If you’re really concerned about frozen pool equipment, you might want to consider investing in a Freeze Protector. A Freeze Protector is an automation device that will turn on the pool heater and pump when the temperatures drop.
Clean Debris On and Around the Pool Cover
Just because your pool is covered doesn’t mean debris can’t find its way in. Always check and clean the pool interior of any unwanted remains. If debris gets in the pool equipment, it could cause damage. Make sure the cover stays clean as well, so when it’s ready to be removed come spring season, you won’t have any trash fall into the pool.
Open Early!
If you want to increase your pool’s lifespan and make spring opening easy, don’t neglect these vital maintenance instructions. As leading swimming pool builders in Ocean County and surrounding New Jersey areas, we at Carlton Pools look forward to a low-maintenance winter season with you!