3 Winter Maintenance Must-Haves For Your Pool
Fall is quickly approaching and even though you may be planting mums and putting out pumpkins, you should also be starting the process of closing down your pool for the cooler seasons. If you live in a climate where temperatures are usually at or below freezing, lowering the pool water is imperative for reducing the risk of frozen pipes. If you live in an area where temperatures are not always freezing in the winter, you do not necessarily need to lower the pool water. However, you must prepare your pool for the cooler temperatures and potential snow, sleet, or ice. With this guide, you will know what will be necessary to prepare your pool for the winter season.
Water Test Kit/Chemicals
Since you will not be swimming in the pool through the fall, winter, and early spring season, you may not place much emphasis on water quality. Unfortunately, without upholding proper pH levels, your pool water may develop dangerous bacteria that can lead to mold growth and algae.
To ensure your water is at the right levels, use a test kit before closing the pool down for the season. pH levels must measure between 7.2 and 7.8 to keep your water free from bacteria and algae growth. Shocking the pool with chlorine will be necessary if pH levels are too high or too low.
Vacuum
A skimmer net is an excellent way to remove leaves and other debris from the pool surface. However, the net can be time-consuming process that is not as effective as you will need to clean the pool thoroughly before covering it for the winter.
A leaf vacuum is a smart investment. The vacuum is attached to your standard garden hose and allows you to suction out leaves, pine straw, and other debris from the pool water before depositing it into a connected bag for disposal.
The leaf vacuum is capable of removing debris in both above and in-ground pools.
Cover
Once your water is tested and treated and free of debris, you must cover it for the cooler seasons. If you are a new pool owner, you may think placing a large tarp over the pool is sufficient. Unfortunately, tarps quickly wear down, reducing the amount of protection your pool receives from the winter elements.
When shopping for a proper cover for your pool that is also affordable, consider a mesh cover. Mesh covers are porous, meaning the small holes allow moisture to drain through and not puddle up on top of the cover. While the water drains through, dirt and debris can also drain though into the water. This is one of the downsides associated with using mesh cover. Thankfully, mesh covers are also very lightweight and easy to maneuver. They are also the most affordable option.
If you prefer a cover that offers more protection for your pool water, opt for a solid vinyl cover. These covers create a solid, airtight barrier over your pool. There will be no worry of rain, sleet, snow, dirt, leaves, or other debris seeping into your pool water.
If you decide to purchase a solid vinyl cover, invest in a pool cover pump, as well. This machine will remove rain, sleet, and melted ice and snow from the top of your pool cover, preventing the cover from sagging in certain areas. An automatic pool cover pump is the most efficient and easiest option for removing this moisture from the top of the pool cover.
Custom swimming pools make a wonderful addition for your home and family, but any pool requires maintenance to keep it safe and appealing. Before the winter season arrives, equip your pool with these must-haves.
Share