No more cannonballs, no more belly flops, no more Marco Polo, and no more lounging by the pool…at least not until next summer. It is that time of year again to close your property’s pool for the winter. Winterizing your pool may seem complicated, but with a little preparation, it can be a very simple and pain-free process. One of our Suppliers, Leslie’s Pool Supply, has provided a quick Top 10 Pool Closing Tips list that will help you close your pool quickly and easily!
1. Begin Winterizing One Week Before Closing Your Pool
One week prior to closing your pool, add a phosphate remover to help keep algae out
2. Brush and Vacuum To Remove All Debris
Cleaning your pool before closing prevents algae and makes your spring opening even easier
3. Manage Your Water Level
FREEZING – Water should be 4-6 inches below: skimmer (vinyl-lined) or tile line (plaster)
NON-FREEZING – Water should be filled to the top, almost to the point of overflowing
4. Balance the Pool Chemistry
Total Alkalinity should be between 80-120 ppm, pH level should be between 7.4-7.6
5. Shock and Chlorinate Your Pool
Shocking kills any bacteria that might linger in your pool during the winter
6. Backwash Your Filter
Allow the pump to run for a full cycle before backwashing and chemically cleaning your filter
7. Drain Pool Lines and Add Antifreeze (for freezing temperatures only)
This prevents the costly repairs that come from burst of damaged pipes
8. Install Air Pillow
Inflate the air pillow using an air pump and place in the center of the pool
9. Install A Safety Cover, Winter Cover or Leaf Net
Protect your pool and family with a secure cover
10. Monitor Chemical Balance Monthly
Routinely check water chemistry, and consult a Leslie’s Service Technician or Store Associate if chemicals become unbalanced
Follow these recommended tips and it will mean less work and reduce maintenance costs in the Spring. Will your property be ready for opening day?