Pool closing has never been more important. When you close the pool correctly, you have less hassle when pool season rolls around next year. Unfortunately, a lot of people make simple mistakes when closing their pool and end up with a heap of trouble upon opening it again. It’s not pleasant and could, potentially, be very costly too. Fortunately, closing a pool for the winter can be easier than you think. So, what simple steps could help you when closing a pool at home?
Start by Cleaning the Pool
Firstly, you must clean the swimming pool. A good scrub is what is needed and it’s a lot easier than you think. So, you could get a telescopic pole and attach a pool brush to the end and clean the pool floor and walls. It’s important to try and get into every corner and every little nook you can find. It’ll help remove all algae spores, dirt, grime, and bacteria. You could also use a robotic pool cleaner if you have one. This should be treated as a good spring clean for the pool, so don’t be afraid to put some elbow grease into the cleaning. Don’t forget to use a pool vac either.
Remove Accessories for the Winter
You aren’t going to be using your swimming pool so it’s unlikely you’ll need the rail or ladder. Keeping these in place can create a few issues while trying to cover the pool. It also leaves them exposed to the elements which could cause them to rust over. Instead, it’s easier to uninstall them and store them for the winter. This gives you ample opportunity to make the pool safe by having a cover that fits snugly and isn’t hampered by the ladder or rail.
Take Samples of your Water
You could buy a swimming pool water test kit or take a sample to a professional to get an accurate reading. While testing the water seems unnecessary since you aren’t going to use it for several months, it’s necessary to ensure the water levels are balanced. It isn’t too difficult to do yourself as most kits come with an instruction manual. If you aren’t keen on testing the water levels, then get a professional to assist you.
Use Winterizing Chemicals to Protect the Pool
Some people choose not to winterize their pool and just close it up for the winter. If that is what you want to do, that’s fine; it’s your pool after all. However, you could also winterize your swimming pool before closing it for the season. You could start by applying a non-chlorine shock, along with an algaecide. The algaecide prevents spore growth and can be useful for most pools that aren’t being used for a prolonged period. You may want to use pool enzymes to help remove organic contaminants found in the water also.
Other chemicals could be required to help balance and winterize the pool. Of course, this depends on whether you are happy with the basic pool closing Tulsa or want to winterize then close. It may also depend on the size of the pool and if you feel winterizing is necessary.
Shock the Pool
It’s smart to shock the pool for a final time. You should try to keep the pool pump on for several hours, possibly overnight, to ensure the shock tablet is distributed evenly through your swimming pool. It might be wise to test the water again so that you can be assured the water balance is right. However, it is important to note that you should always follow the manufacturers instructions while using any chemicals. Be careful when using any chemicals too and don’t keep them around pets or children.
Remove some Water
You might need to lower the water level within the swimming pool so that there isn’t an issue with overflow or damage from freezing. Remember, you want the cover to be supported by the water but not to the point where it’ll overflow. You may need to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific pool-type and cover. A good option, however, would be to keep the water level just below the pool’s skimmer or tile border.
Clean the Pool Pump and Filter Systems
There are a dozen things to do before pool closing; however, you do not want to forget to clean the pool filter or pump. These often accumulate a build-up of grime and all sorts; it isn’t something you want to deal with, to say the least. So, it is best to clean your pool pump and filter systems before you close the pool for the season. You can remove and scrub the filters with the appropriate tools and replace it so that it’s clean for the next season.
Get a Professional to Blow the Swimming Pool Lines
This is not always an easy task to do. You need to remove every drop of water from the filter system, water lines, and pool pump. It’s a chore that, if don’t improperly, could cost thousands of dollars to repair. You basically blast air through the lines to remove the last drops of water; however, if you aren’t careful enough, the plumbing might need to be repaired. That is why it’s often a good idea to call in a professional for this part. If you want to try it yourself, that’s fine, but be very careful.
Install your Pool Cover
Installing a pool cover doesn’t usually take a lot of effort; it does, of course, depending on the specific cover you’ve chosen. So, you should go ahead and install the cover now. Once it is in place, you should keep it clean by sweeping away any leaves or snow on it. Usually, the cover will protect the pool throughout the season, but it doesn’t hurt to check on the pool and the cover every so often either.
Why Does Pool Closing Tulsa Matter?
There are some misconceptions about swimming pools and when they should be closed. Sometimes, if you’ve just got a new swimming pool installed at home, you can believe it’s a year-long attraction. While it can be used throughout the year – depending on where you live, of course – it is sometimes easier to close it for the fall and winter months. Remember, during the later stages of the year, you are likely to see unstable weather conditions; sometimes, even the odd storm will pass by. These can create havoc for the home, especially a swimming pool.
You could end up with twigs, leaves, branches, and even bugs in the pool (and that’s all before you notice old flyers, newspapers, and wrappers floating around). You won’t want to use the pool, and, in some instances, it isn’t really viable for the weather you have. By closing the in-ground swimming pool, you avoid these issues. It’ll also save you money. Besides, you won’t skim or clean the pool as often either, so whatever has fallen in will rot and clog the skimmer and filter systems. Sometimes, it’s best to close it when you experience harsh winters.
Keep your Pool Safe During the Winter
Fall and winter are harsh months. Sometimes, you can see freak weather storms that batter the area; your home can take a beating too. If your pool isn’t closed properly, you could find it becomes damaged, and those costs can range into the tens of thousands range. It’s not ideal, and not necessary either. By closing your pool properly, you can prevent many issues from arising. Pool closing Tulsa can be done effectively and in a few easy steps.
