You’ve enjoyed your pool all summer long, but weather cools, it’s important to winterize your pool to help prepare it for spring. Taking a few steps to properly close down the pool keeps it protected and safe during the winter.
Check Your Filters
No matter if you have sand, cartridge, or diatomaceous earth (DE) filters, inspecting and cleaning the filter is important at the end of the summer. You might even want to replace the filter at this time, especially if you’re not going to drain the pool. This will ensure you don’t enter the winter months with a dirty filter that has a tough time keeping the pool clean.
If you live in an area where freezing occurs during winter, you may want to completely drain your pool. You should at least drain the pump, filter, and heater if you’re in a cold climate. Blow out the pipes completely so water won’t freeze inside them. You can use a shop vac or air compressor to do this.
Continue Skimming and Scooping
While it’s true that you won’t be using the pool in the winter, you do need to continue skimming it. Scoop out any dirt, organic matter, and leaves that fall into the water. Because it’s easy to overlook this task when you’re not regularly using the pool, set reminders for yourself. Buildup leads to algae growth and makes the filter work harder. Another option is to use a pool cover. Make sure the pool is free of any contaminants before covering it.
Winterize Your Pool: Regulate the Chemicals
The easiest way to determine the chemistry of your pool is to use testing strips. All you need to do is dip a strip in the water and use the container’s chart to compare strip colors. The vital levels to check are PH, chlorine, and alkalinity. Take the proper steps to balance anything that isn’t in the correct range.
Covering the Pool
Covering your pool is one of the simplest steps to take to winterize a pool. A cover keeps contaminants from entering the water. It also helps keep the chemistry stable and protects from algae and sunlight.
Lower the Pool’s Water Level to Winterize Your Pool
Lower the pool’s water level to about a foot below the skimmer by using a water pump. This process is important because it helps move water out of the plumbing system. This prevents cracked pipes in the event of freezing.
The last step when you winterize your pool is to store your pool accessories and chemicals in a sheltered location. Winter weather is harsh on plastic pool components and plastic chemical containers. Keep them in the pool house, a storage shed, or in the basement in the off-season. Your pool is now prepared for winter and will be ready for reopening in spring.
AIM-HI Accurate Investment & Mortgage Home Inspections offers home inspection services, including pool and spa inspections, in Middle Tennessee. Contact us to request an appointment.