How to Winterize Your Pool

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It’s that time of the year again! The weather is getting colder, leaves are changing color and soon summer will be a distant memory. As autumn approaches, you will want to start thinking about winterizing your beautiful swimming pool. Pool closing time can be a sad time of the year, but it is an essential process!

Winterizing your pool will protect it from damage caused by freezing water while also keeping it as clean as possible for next summer. When closing your pool, it is important that you complete each step properly because it will save you time and money.

Get your pool ready for the off-season by following our helpful tips.

Clean Your Pool

The first step to closing your pool is to make sure that it is clean. Your pool should be free of any leaves, dirt, insects or other debris. You also need to make sure that the skimmer and pump basket are thoroughly cleaned as well. If you take the time to clean out your pool, your pool opening process next spring will be much smoother.

Remove Pool Accessories

If your pool has any accessories such as detachable ladders, slides, diving boards or other structures, you should definitely remove and store them somewhere safe for winter. If you leave them in your pool during the off-season, there is a chance that they – or your pool – can succumb to damages from snow or ice buildup.

Balance the Chemicals

You don’t need a degree in chemistry to effectively balance your pool’s chemical levels. In fact, it is relatively easy. A few days prior to closing your pool, you should adjust the chemicals to recommended levels:

  • The pH level should be between 7.26to 7.8.
  • The calcium hardness should be between 180 and 220ppm.
  • The alkalinity should be between 80 and 100.

Once your pool reaches these levels, shock your pool to ensure the chlorine level will rise to around 10 to 12ppm. Next, allow the pool chlorine level to slowly reduce to a normal level, which should be around 1.5 to 3.5ppm. Once the chlorine reaches this level, add pool algaecides and other winterization chemicals. Although this task requires a lot of work, it is an essential part to closing your pool.

Drain Your Pool

Be sure to drain all water from the pump and reduce the water to around 12 to 18 inches below the skimmer opening or just below the return lines. Doing this allows any water in the plumbing lines to drain back into the pool, which will prevent water from freezing in the pipes and causing damage.

Shut Off Equipment

Once the water level is below the jets, the pump can be damaged if it runs without proper water flow. Be sure to disable any timers so that the pump does not accidentally turn on.

Cover Your Pool

Pool covers come in many different shapes and sizes to reflect each owner’s pool. For this reason, it is important to check with your pool manufacturer to ensure the cover you purchased is right for your pool. When covering your pool, make sure the edges are tightly sealed. Doing so will prevent any debris from entering your pool.

Hire a Shoreline Professional!

The tips listed above are merely generalized rules. The truth is that each pool closing is unique due to the variety of pools. These tips may not apply a saltwater pool or even an above ground pool. If you are hesitant and are unsure how to close your pool properly, don’t hesitate to contact a Shoreline Pool professional.

Hiring a Shoreline Pools professional will ensure that your pool closing process is done correctly and your pool is properly protected during the winter season. Dial (203) 357-1544 to connect with our team! Keep up to date with the latest pool trends and tips by following us on HOUZZ.

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