The thought of closing a pool
for winter is never a joyous one. It reminds us that, for several months at
least, there will be no more swimming, diving and relaxing poolside. But anyone
who has had to get a pool back up and running come springtime will tell you
that proper winterization makes it a whole lot easier and protects pool equipment from costly damage.
The Pool Guy has put together
a list of the best pool tips for winter. The step-by-step guide will help you
close your pool for the winter whether you’re a beginner or seasoned pool
owner.
Winter Swimming Pool To-Dos and Must-Haves
Step 1: Balance the Water
Once your water gets down to
65° F it’s time to start the closing process. Balancing your water is a crucial
first step that should happen several days before you close it up. An expert
can analyze a water sample if you need help figuring out the exact pH, alkaline
and calcium hardness levels.
Step 2: Clean the Pool
Once your water is balanced
the next step is to thoroughly clean the pool. This involves vacuuming,
brushing and skimming to get out all the debris. Next scrub around the waterline
and clean the skimmer to remove dirt that can become a breeding ground for
bacteria.
Step 3: Clean the Filter
You must chemically clean the
filter to keep it in good working condition over the winter. This is a
preventative maintenance step that will also ensure the filter is running
strong when you fire it back up in the spring.
Step 4: Treat the Water
Now it’s time to add shock to
the water as well as an algae protector. The Bioguard Artic Blue Winter Kits
contain both products, which works together to keep the water clean throughout
the winter. First add the shock then follow up with the Algae Protector.
BioGuard Winter Algicide 40 is another good option for keeping water
algae-free. Once the shock and an algae protectant are added run the pump for
24-48 hours.
Step 5: Remove and Winterize Other Equipment
While the pump is running
start removing nonessential equipment like ladders, skimmers and wall fittings.
Use the manufacturer’s suggestions for each to properly winterize your
equipment.
Step 6: Drain Pumps, Filters and Other Pool Equipment
After running the pump for
24-48 hours it’s best to drain it as well as other pool equipment to prevent
possible damage from freezing. Again, refer to the manufacturer’s suggestions
on the best way to drain equipment.
Step 7: Cover Your Pool
The final step is to cover
your clean, treated pool to keep out all the debris, bacteria and algae. If you
have a white plaster pool and want to provide continuous chlorination
throughout the winter put a BioGuard Winter Floater in the water before
covering.
That’s it. Seven simple steps
to closing your pool for winter.
