WINTERIZE YOUR POOL

Do you know how to winterize your pool? We show you how and why you must do this every year. Failing to do so can cause major problems which may be expensive to fix

The main aim when you winterize your pool is to protect it from damage due to the water freezing in the cold weather. Failing to properly winterize your pool can spell disaster in places where freezing temperatures are common for several months and can result in hefty repair bills.

If you don’t feel confidant about your ability to winterize your pool then consult a professional who will take the responsibility of adding chemicals and monitoring your system.

• When you winterize your pool the first thing you should do is clean it of all debris, leaves and bugs by vacuuming, using the filter or skimming.

• Remove any accessories such as ladders, handrails, slides, summer solar cover and store indoors.

• Make sure the pH level is balanced to prevent staining of surfaces.

• Add a special chemical treatment mixture which may include chlorine and alkalizer to ensure the water stays clean and is ready to use when the warmer weather arrives. Many manufacturers supply kits containing these chemicals, just be sure that you follow the directions for use and circulate well.

• Drain the water several inches below the skimmer and output holes.

• All the equipment such as the pump, filter, heater and chlorinator should be drained to avoid the water freezing inside and to prevent cracking occurring. To ensure it is all emptied air can be blown in with an air compressor or shop vacuum.  You should also blow out all the lines, then plug them with expansion plugs, when you winterize your in ground pool; with an above ground one you usually just need to disconnect the hoses to and from the pump and filter and  then plug the wall outlets. Use a Gizzmo or skimmer guard to seal the skimmer line.

• Store the filter, hoses and any other equipment in a shed or basement to avoid any unnecessary damage and further cost.

In-Ground Pool Cover

• Finally be sure to add a cover. Install a flotation device on top of the water, such as a car or truck inner tube or an inflatable pillow sold by pool suppliers specifically for this job. The device performs two functions; first it balances the rainwater and ice that forms on the cover during the cold weather; secondly, the area around the float won’t freeze and will allow the ice to push inwards towards the float rather than outwards towards the walls where damage could occur.

• Stretch the cover tightly over the surface (you may need help to do this) and tighten so that it fits snugly so that it won’t come off during high wind or heavy rains.

If you follow these guidelines to winterize your pool you should have no problems getting the water ready the following year so you can again enjoy swimming.