Winterizing Your Swimming Pool

While summer’s just around the corner, it pays to know how to prepare your pool for the colder seasons when you won’t be using it. A recent article on realestate.com provides a step-by-step guide on closing down you pool for winter.

• Check the pool for leaks by marking the water level on the side of the pool and checking it again after 24 hours.
• Thoroughly clean the surrounding areas so there is no debris that could contaminate the pool water.
• Remove your pool cover from storage and check it for tears and holes.
• Turn off the pool heater. Remove, clean and store pool accessories.
• Test and adjust the pH level and chemically balance the water.
• Shock the water to raise the chlorine levels by adding a shock product.
• Run the pump and filter for a minimum of eight hours.
• Clean the pool thoroughly, skimming the surface and vacuuming the floor to remove algae and contaminants.
• Clean all pool equipment including chlorinator, skimmer basket and filters.
• Lower the water level, but not more than 18 inches or so.
• Drain and store the pump, remove water hoses and cap all openings.
• Turn off the power, unplug any cords and turn off the pool equipment circuit breaker.
• Retest the chemical levels and adjust as required.
• Cover the pool and secure with sand bags or cable tie-downs.

It’s also very important to ensure that your Swimming Pool is full waterproofed and we’ve created a great guide on how to waterproof a swimming pool which you can check out for more information.