As the autumn leaves begin to fall and the chill of the impending winter fills the air, pool owners know that the swimming season has come to an end. Preparing your pool for its winter hiatus is a critical part of maintenance. Yet, many pool owners unwittingly make mistakes during the closing process that can make pool reopening a daunting task or even shorten the lifespan of the pool’s equipment. Don’t fall into these traps; Royal Pools & Spas is here to guide you through the mistakes you should avoid.
Forgetting the Filter
While every component of your pool needs attention, the filter often gets ignored during the winterization process. Many pool owners think that backwashing the filter is sufficient, but backwashing only removes large debris. Oils and smaller particles continue to accumulate and can cause problems when you decide to reopen your pool.
Tip: Use a filter cleaning chemical and clean the filter before your last backwash to keep everything pristine for the next season.
Carelessly Adding Pool Chemicals
Chemicals are the lifeline of your pool’s water quality, yet they often get added in a rush right before the pool gets closed. This haste undermines their effectiveness.
Tip: Make sure to add the closing chemicals at least 24 to 48 hours before you close the pool. This ensures that the chemicals have time to circulate and do their job, preventing algae growth over the winter.
Ignoring the Chemical Balance of Your Pool Water
Regularly testing the chemical balance of your pool water is essential. Before closing, make sure that your pool has the right pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels.
Tip: Failing to maintain a balanced chemical environment before winter can result in scale buildup or rusting of metal components. Always test before you close for the season.
Shutting It Down Prematurely
Closing the pool while the weather is still warm may seem like a good idea, especially if you want to save on energy costs. However, warmer water is a breeding ground for algae.
Tip: Wait until the temperature is consistently under 65 degrees before shutting it down. An extra week of waiting could make a significant difference come spring.
Waiting Until Spring to Address Water Quality
If you have water quality issues like algae or scale buildup, don’t assume that they will magically disappear over the winter.
Tip: Tackle these issues head-on before closing. Ignoring them could not only exacerbate the problem but also cause irreversible damage to your pool’s finish.
Pretending You Don’t Need a Leaf Net
Autumn leaves may look beautiful on trees, but they are a nuisance when they find their way into your pool. Investing in a leaf net can save you a lot of trouble.
Tip: Place a leaf net over your winter cover. It captures leaves, making it easy for you to remove them when it’s time to reopen.
Conclusion: Preparation is Key
Winterizing your pool isn’t something you should do hastily. By taking the time to carefully close your pool, you’re investing in its longevity and saving yourself countless hours and dollars in the long run.
Make No Mistake: Royal Pools & Spas Is Here to Help
With the swimming season coming to an end, now is the perfect time to get in touch with Royal Pools & Spas for your pool maintenance needs. We offer a comprehensive range of services designed to ensure that your pool is winter-ready. Don’t take any chances; let us help you prepare your pool for the off-season the right way.
