How to Save at Spring Opening with a Fall Pool Closing Done Right
The thought of uncovering the pool next spring has you dreading it? You are concerned over green water, stains on the walls or perhaps some cracked equipment. In all likelihood a couple of well placed moves in the fall would have seen to that.
We put an end to such worries for our clients here at West Meade Pools. We see to it that Nashville pool owners close their pools in the proper fashion for a spring opening that is as affordable and trouble free as it is clean. Give us a ring at (615)-989-2424. As a licensed and insured company we stand behind what we do with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
It is a fact: the bulk of costly spring issues have their origins in the fall. Neglect in October will be an expensive headache come April. Do it right and the pool is protected for the duration of winter.
The Importance of a Good Fall Closing
Putting the cover on a pool is tantamount to locking its condition in for months. The state of the water and the equipment under that cover is what one will encounter when it comes off. An unbalanced pool will only deteriorate over the winter; a balanced one remains so.
A good closing is no matter of chance, however. There are a few steps to be taken and they must be done correctly.
What a Thorough Closing Entails
You can not just put in some chemicals and throw a cover over the water and call it a day. A proper fall closing calls for:
- Getting the water chemistry in order, pH, alkalinity and calcium
- Winterizing with chemicals to stave off algae in the cold
- Taking the water level down to spare the tile and skimmers from any freeze
- Blowing out and draining the plumbing to preclude cracked pipes
- Putting away your pump baskets, ladders and the like after a good cleaning
- Fitting a cover that is secure and tight against the elements and sun
Do without any of this and you are asking for it. Trouble in a pool is usually a matter of money.
Where the Cost of a Mistake Shows Up in Spring
Consider the link between a hasty fall closing and an open checkbook in the spring.
Water that has been unbalanced all winter will etch and stain plaster. To remedy that surface damage is a lot more than the time it would have taken to balance the water back in October.
Nashville winters are cold enough for water in the lines to freeze and crack the pipes. Repairing those underground is among the priciest of problems for a pool owner.
Then there is the matter of a cover that is loose or torn. Sunlight, dirt and leaves get through and feed the algae. Instead of clear water you have a green swamp to deal with, and shocking a pool in that shape is a days work with all the chemicals it entails.
Leave the equipment out and it will corrode or break. No need to be shelling out for a new filter or pump because it was not put away.
Savings Are Cumulative
There is a world of difference between a rough opening and a clean one. With the latter you take off the cover to find the water and equipment in fine order. A day or two to reconnect and balance and you are in the water.
The other option is refilling and draining, scrubbing, and making repairs to what has been ruined. That can run you hundreds if not thousands of dollars extra. Some effort now is the best way to avoid a large bill.
Timing Your Closing in Nashville
One should not close too early with the water still warm and give algae a foothold, nor too late and risk a freeze before the work is finished. Around here the ideal time is when the weather cools in the fall and the water is under 60 degrees and staying there.
Should you have any questions on the timing or the procedure, we are happy to oblige.
Leave the Fall Closing to West Meade Pools
Make no mistake about it, a DIY closing is a gamble you will pay for in the spring. We provide Nashville homeowners with a careful closing to safeguard their investment. Free estimates are available and we are fully licensed and insured, with every job covered by our 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Our office is open Monday to Friday from 8 to 5. Call (615)-989-2424 and make sure your spring opening is easy on the wallet.