One of the perks of living in California is that you can enjoy splashing in your pool for much longer than in most other parts of the county. However, even in San Diego, there comes a time when you can’t prolong your swimming pool season any longer. When the cold starts biting, you’ll have to take care of a few things to ensure that your pool stays in good health and protected from the elements till the next season starts.
Whether you’ve waited for the summer season to end before doing a full remodel of your plunge bath in San Diego or would just like some help with a few touch-ups to prepare for the winter, look for proven pool installation companies near you that can provide the professional touch, ensure the safety of your equipment, and increase your pool’s longevity in the long run.
In today’s post, we outline crucial steps needed to winterize your pool. Winterizing is an important maintenance step that not only protects your pool’s structural integrity but also simplifies your routine when the next season starts.
How should I prepare my pool for the winter?
1. Clean the pool
Use a pool vacuum or skimmer to remove any leaves, debris, or dirt that are floating in the water. Keeping a pool clean reduces the chances of algae growth and the spread of contagious germs.
2. Check the chemical balance
Before closing your pool for the season, ensure that the water is chemically balanced. This means checking the pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness. This will prevent scale buildup and corrosion, which can cause structural damage to the pool.
3. Lower the water level
At some point, you may need to lower the water level, depending on the type of pool cover you have. Typically, water is lowered by 4-6 inches below the skimmer for mesh covers and 1-2 inches if you have a solid cover.
4. Add winterizing chemicals
Using a winterizing chemical kit will help to keep the water clear of algae and other contaminants. While you can do this yourself following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, it may be advisable to leave this task to professionals to avoid exposure.
5. Drain and protect the equipment
You should always drain any leftover water from the pool pump, heater, and filter system to prevent freezing and potential damage. You should always store detachable equipment like ladders and diving boards in a safe place outside of the pool.
6. Blow out the lines
Blow any remaining water out of your plumbing lines to prevent freezing and cracking using an air compressor. If you don’t have one, call in professionals because this is one of the most important steps in ensuring your pool stays safe during the freezing temperatures.
7. Install a pool cover
A high-quality pool cover will keep out debris, sunlight, and contaminants. Make sure that the cover fits your setup and is free of any holes or tears. You can also place air pillows in the center of the pool underneath the cover to alleviate the pressure from snow and ice.
8. Check the pool periodically
Remember to check the pool and its covers periodically throughout the winter, particularly after severe storms or heavy snowfall. Always remove water or heavy snow that accumulates on top. You can also use a pool cover pump to remove excess water.
9. Secure the area
Make sure the pool area is securely fenced or locked to ensure safety and prevent accidents. This is especially important if you have kids who may be tempted to play or run around the pool.
10. Plan for spring opening
Store chemicals, tools, and equipment in a dry and accessible place. Keeping everything organized will make the pool opening process smoother in the spring.
Who should be my first choice of pool installation companies near me in San Diego & beyond?
If you’re looking for reliable professionals who boast pool building and remodeling experience and know-how, So Cal Custom Pools is your go-to team that’s been building beautiful and durable swimming pools in the wider San Diego area for more than two decades.
Whether you want to know why early fall is the perfect time to construct a pool or you have some questions about the pool design and remodeling, we’re here to provide answers and let you in on what you should expect.
Take your toddlers to the Sunset Cliffs Natural Park while we survey your land and explore the possibilities for your backyard. Reach out to us today!
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