As we make our way into November pool closures are already well underway. If closing your pool is on your to do list for this weekend here are some tips on what to do.
It’s important to ensure your pool equipment is well maintained and protected. This not only makes is easier to re-open in the spring but also sustains the longevity of your pool equipment.
Clean and Prepare
If you have a solar cover for your outdoor pool, remove this, clean it and store it away. Clear away any debris. You can use a skimmer net or a pool cleaning machine to do this. Ensure it is thoroughly vacuumed, cleaned and all debris is taken care of.
Even if your pool is indoors you should still conduct a thorough clean.
Shock the Pool
This is a common phrase used when shutting pools down for the winter. The reason it’s referred to as this is because you are adding a large amount of chemicals in one dose.
You can choose to shock dose your water with unstabilised chlorine, or calcium granules. (Dilute the calcium granules in warm water first). If using unstabilised chlorine raise the chlorine levels to 6 to 10 ppm. Then keep your pump running for 6 to 12 hours. This is to distribute the chlorine to all parts of the pool.
Then add a winterising product. This is a long life algicide designed to keep your pool free of algae over the winter months. To distribute the algicide to all parts of the pool keep your pump running for 6 to 12 hours.
Once you have circulated your chemicals and drained down the top level it is you now need to drain the water out of your pump, filter and heater. They should each have a drain plug at the bottom to let the water out. This is so it does not freeze inside it and damage it.
Protect from Freezing
Remove your summer cover, clean with a pressure washer ideally and store. You can fold it up and store elsewhere or leave it on the roller and cover with your winter cover.
Pull the cover taught – you may need to re-tension it after the first two or three days.
Endless Pools
Fortunately, an Endless Pool can be used all year round. This is great news for us in the UK! However, if you are not using it during the winter there are considerations that should be taken to protect your pool.
Follow these steps:
- Drain water in pool to halfway down the stainless-steel benches. Remove the corner covers (and optional corner steps) before the water level gets below the top level of the benches.
- Turn off all the circuit breakers to all electrical equipment.
- Drain water from filtration lines and equipment. Cover the equipment with a winter cover to protect it from the elements.
- Shock the pool as previously mentioned.
- Try to keep the cover free of excessive water/snow during the winter to avoid damage.
For more advice or for help shutting down your pool for the winter contact us today.