The cold winter months are no excuse to let your pool maintenance slip! Even if you extend your pool season with a pool heater, you still need to properly care for your pool and make sure that it is ready for next year. If you don’t, you’ll be sorry when you have to deal with a green, murky pool come spring.

In order to properly maintain your pool in cold weather, you should reduce your pumps operating from 4-6 hours per day to 2-4 hours per day. This will help reduce the amount of heat loss from your pool.

How do I keep the water balance in my pool when it’s cold out?

Not only you should take care of the water in your pool, but you should also take care of the pool itself. Here are some tips:

• Chlorine: Test your chlorine levels frequently and adjust as needed. You may need to add more chlorine in order to maintain a higher level than usual.
  
• pH levels: Maintain a pH level between 7.2 and 7.6. If your pool is too acidic, it can cause damage to the pool surface and equipment.
  
• Alkalinity: Keep your alkalinity levels between 80 and 120 ppm. Keep in mind that cold weather can cause the alkalinity level to drop, so you may need to adjust your levels accordingly.
  
• Calcium hardness: Maintain a calcium hardness level of 175 to 225 ppm. It can be difficult to maintain this level in cold weather, so you may need to add a calcium hardness increase to your pool.
  
• Water temperature: Keep your pool water temperature at 78 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. This will help prevent the growth of algae and bacteria.

In addition to the regular chemicals you’ll need to add to your pool, you should also consider adding an antifreeze solution. This will help prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting in the colder months.

What else should I do to care for my pool in cold weather?

• Cover your pool. This will help prevent leaves and other debris from getting into the water and will also help reduce evaporation.
  
• Keep the area around your pool clean. This will help prevent accidents and will also keep your pool looking its best.

When should I close my pool for the winter?

The best time to close your pool for the winter is when the temperature consistently drops below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. This typically happens in late fall or early winter. Before you close your pool, be sure to clean it thoroughly and add the appropriate chemicals.

What if I have a saltwater pool?

If you have a saltwater pool, you’ll need to take special care to prevent the salt from corroding the metal parts of your pool. Be sure to test the salt levels frequently and adjust as needed. You may also want to consider adding a corrosion inhibitor to your pool.

Who can I call if I need help with my pool?

If you need help with your pool, you can always call a professional. Pool companies offer a variety of services, including pool maintenance, repairs, and even winterization.

By following these tips, you can rest assured that your pool will be ready for swim season come spring!