As the leaves start to change colours and the days grow shorter, the time to bid farewell to another swimming season approaches. But before closing your pool, you’ll want to complete a few tasks to ensure its longevity and make the reopening process a breeze when the warm weather returns.
In this blog post, we’ll take you through six things you must do before closing your pool. These steps will not only safeguard your pool from winter damage but also set the stage for a clean, trouble-free swimming experience next season. So, let’s dive in and explore the key preparations to ensure your pool stays in top-notch condition during its winter hibernation!
Before closing your pool, it’s essential to balance the water chemistry. This includes adjusting the pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels to their ideal ranges. By doing so, you’ll prevent corrosion, scale buildup, and algae growth over the winter months.
Tip: Use a pool testing kit to ensure your water is in tip-top shape before covering it up.
If you’d like a clean pool when you open it next season, then be sure to shock it with a chlorine treatment. This high-dose chlorine shock will help eliminate any remaining contaminants and bacteria, keeping your water crystal clear during the winter months.
Tip: Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct dosage.
Set aside some time to give your pool a good scrubbing and vacuuming before closing it down. This includes removing any debris, leaves, or dirt from the pool’s surface and bottom. It’ll not only make the closing process smoother but also prevent the accumulation of organic matter that can lead to algae growth.
Tip: Use long, slow, sweeping motions when vacuuming.
Before closing your pool, you should lower the water level to the recommended level. Not necessarily drain it entirely – just lower it. This prevents water from overflowing due to winter rains or snowmelt and potentially damaging your pool’s structure.
Tip: Consult your pool’s manual or a professional for the appropriate water level adjustment.
Don’t forget to winterize your pool equipment, such as the pump, filter, and heater. You’ll need to disconnect and drain all equipment to prevent freezing damage.
Tip: Store these components in a dry, protected area to ensure they’re in good working condition when you reopen your pool.
Last but not least, you should invest in a high-quality pool cover designed for winter use. A cover not only keeps your pool clean but also adds an extra layer of safety.
Tip: Ensure it fits your pool snugly and securely to prevent debris, leaves, and animals from entering the water.
In conclusion, taking these six crucial steps before closing your pool will help you preserve its condition, extend its lifespan, and make the reopening process a breeze. There’s no doubt that balancing the water chemistry, shocking the pool, thorough cleaning, adjusting water levels, winterizing equipment, and securing the pool cover, are essential tasks that ensure your pool remains in excellent condition throughout the winter months.
It can be a big job, but by investing a little time and effort now, you’ll enjoy a hassle-free and sparkling pool when summer returns.
Need a hand closing your pool? If so, we’d be happy to help! Click here to get in touch with Clark Pools and Spas, and inquire about our pool closing services today.
