The end of summer is nearing, which unfortunately means cooler temperatures and the end of pool season.
Preparing your pool for next year can be a daunting task. From the water to the filters to the pump, every part of the pool needs to be prepped for winter.
If you don’t want to close it down yourself, give us a call! We’re happy to help with closing and any other maintenance needs. But if you want to tackle this yourself, read on for important steps to take.
Regulate the chemicals
In order to prevent the development of algae and bacteria, it is important to balance the chemicals in your water.
One way to do this is to use test strips, which you just dip in the water. Then, compare the color on the strip to the color on the container to determine the level of that chemical. Be sure to check the chlorine, PH and alkalinity levels. It is helpful to have your pool in balance when working on winterization steps.
Get rid of any debris
It might seem like whatever is in the pool can just remain over the winter, but removing any debris will prevent buildup that can cause your filter to work harder and algae to grow. It also helps to do this while the pool is still running so the filters can pick up any small particles. It is important for the water to be as clean as possible before it is covered for the winter.
Clean the filters
Once the debris is gone, it is time to clean the filters. You don’t want whatever gunk your filters have picked up to remain there over winter. Be sure to take the filter out and thoroughly clean it so it is ready to work when you reopen the pool in the spring.
Lower the water level
While you shouldn’t completely empty your pool, lowering the water level will help keep it safe during the winter months. If the water manages to freeze, it will prevent cracks in the tile. But more importantly, lowering the water to about a foot below the skimmer will allow you to blow out the pool lines, another important part of preparing your pool for winter.
Blow out the pool lines
Ensuring all pool lines are clear of water is important for preventing freezing and cracking in the winter. This can be done by using an air compressor, shop vac or pool line blower. It is important to complete this in a three-step process:
- Blow out the suction side.
- Blow out the equipment.
- Blow out the pressure side.
For a more in-depth guide, check out this series of videos that demonstrates how to winterize your pool. As the videos mention, if you have doubts about being able to complete this critical step yourself, call a professional.
Spartan Pool & Patio is here to help.
Cover it up
A pool cover is the final step of the winterization process. Choose one that is durable so it will withstand the winter months. This will prevent you from having to clean the pool all winter and keep those who might be near the pool safe from falling in.
Clean and store equipment
Like with the pool, be sure to clear any equipment of water to prevent freezing. Then store that equipment and any other pool accessories—chlorine tablet containers, brushes and skim baskets—in a safe, dry place. The freezing temperatures of winter will shorten the lifespan of anything plastic.
It takes a lot to close down a pool, and we firmly believe that the most important part of owning a pool is enjoying it. Instead of wasting your time closing down the pool, let Spartan Pool & Patio do it for you!
Our professional team will vacuum the pool and spa, clean the filters, blow the lines, treat the water with winter chemicals, place antifreeze, and cover the pool.
Contact us today, and let us take care of winterizing your pool, giving you peace of mind all winter long.
