Having a pool can be really fun but at the same time, it is a great responsibility. First of all, you have to get acquainted with different equipment learning small intricacies. Pool maintenance will become a part of your weekly routine.

Period after summer is especially tricky. You have to clean the pool, remove stuff and ultimately, close it. This takes some time and proficiency. Like with other pool procedures, mistakes are possible and even expected.

If this is your first time winterizing, better read this article. We have some cool tips for you that will take you through the process ensuring that your pool and equipment are properly protected.
Pool
Pool

1. Balancing water in the pool

Water will remain in the pool during entire winter. However, this means that there is a big chance stains will appear at the bottom of it. As a way to prevent it, you will have to balance the water. You have to make sure that pH, alkalinity and calcium hardness are within optimal levels.
  • pH – 7.2 to 7.6
  • alkalinity – 80 to 120 ppm
  • calcium hardness – 180 to 220 ppm

2. Shocking the pool

After chlorine has settled in, it is time to shock your pool. Here, you will have to add algaecide to the pool. Do not use chlorine tablets as they will create stains at the bottom of the pool. Similarly, do not use floater with strong oxidizer as it will stick to the walls and stain it.

3. Removing additional equipment

During this step, you will have to remove all additional equipment including baskets, feeders and ladders. Make sure that the area around the pool is clean. Although you will add cover at the end of the process, it is better to stay on the safe side and completely clean everything.

4. Reducing the water level

Now is the time to reduce water level in the pool. It needs to be lowered bellow level of the skimmer. This way, when the winter comes, there is no risk that the water will get into the skimmer and freeze causing permanent damage. Another option is to get skimmer covers (available for vinyl liner pools) that will close it off. If you do this, there is no need to lower the water level. 

5. Drain everything

Similarly to skimmer, pipes and hoses are also susceptible to ice damage. You will need to drain water from your filtering and heating system as well as the pump. All the hoses needs to be disconnected and plugs should be placed into outlets. It is best if you remove the filter and store it in a shed and perform routine maintenance on the pump. This will prepare it for the upcoming summer.

6. Cover the pool

Last step of the process is adding a pool cover. With it, you make sure that the pool is protected from debris and dirt during the winter. Before you place it, check if there is any damage to it. Small holes can be disastrous as they allow small particles to enter the pool. Cover need to be a perfect fit for your pool. Otherwise, it will not serve the purpose.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are quite a few things that you have to do prior to winter. It is an arduous task but a necessary one. If this is your first pool winterization, perhaps it is even better to ask for a professional assistance. You can observe a pool expert, take notes and be ready for next winter.
If not, you can always rely on this article as you perform quick and efficient winterization of your pool. 

Short bio: 

Nick Stoyanov is a copywriter and content strategist at forpumps.com.au – Australia’s largest online pump store. 4 Pumps is an Australian company that focuses on the national distribution of its comprehensive range of quality pumping products.