With the colder months fast approaching, now is a good time to start preparing to shut down your pool for winter. Doing this will help you save money when your pool isn’t in use, as well as keep it in the best condition for when you want to jump back in. Make sure you allow time to prepare your pool, so you can avoid freezing temperatures that could damage your pool and equipment. In this blog we look at how to shut down a pool for winter.
Deep clean your pool
Thoroughly clean your pool to rid it of any dirt and debris that may have accumulated. Use a handheld skimmer to clear any leaves and dirt on the surface and use a pool robot to clean the water line, walls and floor surface. This will help save you time and effort trying to clean those hard-to-reach places. You should also clean the filter and skimmers to remove any impurities.
Adjust your water chemistry
Before covering your pool, test your water to ensure the chemicals are in balance. Your pool water pH level should be between 7.4 and 7.6. If your water test results read otherwise, then you’ll need to treat your pool’s water. We recommend using a product called ‘pH plus’ if the level is too low or ‘pH minus’ if the level is too high. Make sure you test the water again the next day to ensure the level is back to normal.
Install a winter cover
Invest in a winter cover for the best protection against the cold and to maintain the quality of your pool water. Winter covers are permeable, allowing rainwater to penetrate, while providing a barrier to stop debris getting into your pool which could alter the chemistry of your water. Without an effective pool cover, you could end up having to undergo extra maintenance when opening your pool for summer.
Lower your water level (if you need to)
When temperatures plumet there is risk of your water freezing. You should therefore lower your water level to six inches below your skimmers. This will prevent the water from getting into your pump and filter system, where it could freeze and cause damage. However, if you have an automatic safety cover fitted your water level shouldn’t be lowered. When the temperature drops below freezing, set your pump to circulate the water for two hours per day to stop your water from freezing over.
Drain equipment
As well as lowering your water level, also make sure your pump and pipework is drained of any water prior to covering your pool to avoid water from freezing in your equipment. This also applies to air source heat pumps which should be drained and disconnected.
Add a dose of algaecide
To maintain the cleanliness of your pool over winter and prevent the presence of algae add a dose algaecide. Most algaecide treatments are active for six months, ensuring your water stays clear, ready for when you use it again.
Carry on using your pool
If you can’t bear the thought of not being able to use your pool during the off-season, the good news is you still can. The solution? A dome pool cover. This arched enclosure allows you to enjoy your pool under cover during the cold, wet months, allowing you to make the most of your pool at any time of year.
If you need help closing your pool for winter then, get in touch with us
You can also find out about our pool maintenance services
