Winterizing the Outdoor Pool
Preparing the pool for the winter is a crucial process to avoid issues with cold and icy weather.
This also helps to maintain the readiness of the pool for use in future seasons.
Here are several steps to put in place to prepare the pool: Balance Chemicals - Start the process of preparing the pool by balancing the chemicals in the pool.
Pool chemicals are tested using at home kits or tested off-site by a local pool store.
Correct the balance of the calcium hardness, pH and alkalinity using the necessary chemical solutions.
Remove the Floater Stick - A floater stick is a common feature in many pools and contains chemicals like chlorine and bromine.
At season's end, make sure to remove the stick from the pool.
A floater left in place has the potential to cause damage to the pool lining, especially if gets stuck against one of the walls or floor surface.
Pipe work - Avoid the high cost of having frozen pipes repaired by putting in place the proper weatherizing process.
A purpose made insulation kit is certain to help protect the pool pipes for the duration of the winter.
Most of the kits are designed to protect the pool should the air temperature drop below 32° F.
Heated pipe insulation is often advised for those living in areas with particularly cold winter climates.
Protect the Skimmer - A skimmer left to freezer with water inside is certain to need replacing.
Invest in a simple skimmer cover to protect the entry point of the system.
This is effective at creating a dam, which prevents the water from gaining entry and freezing.
Excess Water - Get rid of the excess water in the plumbing lines by using a vacuum system.
Once the pipes are cleared of water, make sure to put in place a protective plug to help keep it water free.
This is a highly effective strategy to prevent water freezing in the pipe work.
It also helps to have the pump drained.
Make certain to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to avoid causing damage to the pump seal.
Pool Cover - Make sure the pool cover is in a good state of repair.
Any rips or holes can let pool debris enter the water, as well as more difficult issues related to algae and bacteria.
A poorly maintained cover is certain to mean a difficult time in the spring when it is time to open the pool.
This also helps to maintain the readiness of the pool for use in future seasons.
Here are several steps to put in place to prepare the pool: Balance Chemicals - Start the process of preparing the pool by balancing the chemicals in the pool.
Pool chemicals are tested using at home kits or tested off-site by a local pool store.
Correct the balance of the calcium hardness, pH and alkalinity using the necessary chemical solutions.
Remove the Floater Stick - A floater stick is a common feature in many pools and contains chemicals like chlorine and bromine.
At season's end, make sure to remove the stick from the pool.
A floater left in place has the potential to cause damage to the pool lining, especially if gets stuck against one of the walls or floor surface.
Pipe work - Avoid the high cost of having frozen pipes repaired by putting in place the proper weatherizing process.
A purpose made insulation kit is certain to help protect the pool pipes for the duration of the winter.
Most of the kits are designed to protect the pool should the air temperature drop below 32° F.
Heated pipe insulation is often advised for those living in areas with particularly cold winter climates.
Protect the Skimmer - A skimmer left to freezer with water inside is certain to need replacing.
Invest in a simple skimmer cover to protect the entry point of the system.
This is effective at creating a dam, which prevents the water from gaining entry and freezing.
Excess Water - Get rid of the excess water in the plumbing lines by using a vacuum system.
Once the pipes are cleared of water, make sure to put in place a protective plug to help keep it water free.
This is a highly effective strategy to prevent water freezing in the pipe work.
It also helps to have the pump drained.
Make certain to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to avoid causing damage to the pump seal.
Pool Cover - Make sure the pool cover is in a good state of repair.
Any rips or holes can let pool debris enter the water, as well as more difficult issues related to algae and bacteria.
A poorly maintained cover is certain to mean a difficult time in the spring when it is time to open the pool.
Source...