Closing your pool for the season

Whether you live in Arizona or Montana, closing your pool correctly is essential to increasing life of your pool. 

Cold Climates
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1.    Adjust pH to 7.2-7.8 to prevent stains, scaling and algae growth. Shock the pool using directions on the label.
2.    Run the filter for one to three full days straight.
3.    Take out floating debris and do a thorough vacuum.
4.    Add an algaecide to prevent algae from forming before water freezes.
5.    Follow your pool manufacturer's directions for lowering your water level. Not many pools need to be completely drained during the winter. Most pools handle cold temperatures better when  filled with some water as a buffer. It's not uncommon for a drained pool to crack or pop out of the ground because of pressure from ground water.
6.    Shut off filter pump and drain pump, filter heater and all other equipment. Store them to prevent freezing. Follow manufacturer's directions for lubrication and correct covering(s).
7.    Turn off all power to the support equipment and remove fuses or turn the circuit breakers to off.
8.    If you have a slide or diving board, remove it and store it.
9.    Cover pool securely and fill water bags halfway (the edge of the cover should be sealed so that wind does not get under it). A quality pool cover resists water, weather and pool chemicals as well as keeps out leaves and airborne dust.

Mild Climates

1.    Your climate permits a longer swimming season than the cold climate.  However, if there are many weeks in which your pool will not be used, continue routine maintenance on a reduced schedule instead of completely closing your pool for the season.
2.    Begin by reducing filter-running time in half. Keep pH between 7.2-7.8 and free available chlorine between 1.0 and 3.0 parts per million. Follow pool equipment manufacturer's instructions for proper care of equipment.
3.    If you do not cover your pool, clean your skimmer every week, maintain filter according to manufacturer's instructions and vacuum as needed.
4.    Covering your pool will keep out leaves and dirt. Before covering, shock treat according to manufacturer's directions.
​Give us a call when you're ready to clean your pool for the winter.