Winter’s finally here, which means the new year is just around the corner. As you prepare for the coming holidays, remember to keep up with your pool’s maintenance needs. Without proper off-season care, your pool’s water can turn murky green with algae, walls and floors may develop stubborn stains, and debris can accumulate under a sagging cover, resulting in bacterial growth. You can keep your pool clean, healthy, and ready to open back up for the summer by following these simple maintenance tips.
1. Check the Chemical Levels
Balanced pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels are essential for minimizing algae growth and maintaining your water’s crystal-clear state. Once a week, use home test strips to check the chemical levels and amend the water when necessary. For spas and hot tubs, experts recommend testing the water every two or three days.
2. Inspect and Protect Equipment
Your pool’s pumps, filters, and circulation systems play a crucial role in keeping water clean and healthy, even in the off-season. Check for leaks, wear, or damage so failing parts can be fixed or replaced promptly. If your local climate is prone to cold snaps, consider adding insulation to exposed pipes or adjusting equipment settings to prevent freezing. By performing routine, visual inspections, you can avoid paying for repairs in the summer, when pool services are in high demand.
3. Use a Cover
A secure pool cover is your first line of defense against winter debris, but this piece of equipment also needs regular maintenance to function at its best. Leaves, twigs, and dirt can pile on top or sneak underneath, contaminating your water as they decay. As you conduct your other maintenance tasks, brush off and remove any debris that’s present on top of, underneath, and around the edges of your pool cover. Doing this on a regular basis helps maintain cleaner water and prevents extra work when summer comes back around.
4. Watch Your Water Levels
Over time, evaporation can push water levels too low, stressing your pool equipment and throwing off your pH levels. On the other hand, maintaining the right level protects your pumps, reduces the risk of freeze damage, and maintains the ideal chemical balance in your water. Aim to check your water level at least once a month by marking on the side of your pool. If you prefer, you can also place a tall, weighted bucket on one of your pool steps, marking the water level on the bucket rather than the pool surfaces.
Get Professional Help
Giving your pool a little attention during the off-season sets the stage for cleaner, healthier, and stress-free swimming in the future. If you need professional pool cleaning and maintenance in Nashville, TN reach out to the team of experts at West Meade Pools.