1) Why do we winterize swimming pools?

Winter conditions are harsh on pool equipment, and pool surfaces. Balancing and adding the necessary winter products also protect the water from getting algae, metal staining, and scaling. Winterizing drastically reduces the overall cost of chemistry, and makes spring opening a breeze. Follow the steps below to learn how to winterize your pool.

2) Do I need to shock my pool when I winterize?

Shocking is suggested during the winterization process to oxidize out all undesirable compounds, and rid the pool of any organics that may become an issue over the winter.

3) How long do I run my pool daily over the winter?

If the pool has a winter cover suggested run times are between 1-4hrs depending on size. If the pool is uncovered suggested run times are half that of summer run times.

4) Does the pool have to be covered when winterizing?

The pool does not need to be covered for the winter. Just know an uncovered pool still has the minor task of removing debris that enter the pool.

5) What happens if I don’t winterize?

A few things. Filter and tile lines become much more difficult to clean. The pool water is much more susceptible to scaling due to winter temperatures. In these cases, compounds want/tend to solidify on surfaces and filters. There is also the expenditure of unnecessary dollars on chemicals and run times. Add in the unnecessary effort required to maintain an un-winterized pool, and all factors lead to the ease and money saving points of winterizing.

6) What about my pool sweep?

The cold winter water is tough pool sweep plastics. If the sweep is older the plastics will become more brittle, crack, and break. A newer sweep will have a shorter life, as the temps will speed the aging process again making it susceptible to a similar fate. Tip- remove sweeps when not in use. Store sweeps in protected area and lay hoses/lines straight to prevent “roll-up memory.”

7) What if I don’t clean my filter?

The cold winter temperatures will make the debris on the filter tougher to remove. They may also solidify and plug the filter pores.

8) Do I need algaecide?

Dosing with a quality algaecide is necessary for algae protection during the winter months.

9) Do I need stain and scale protection?

Protection from metal staining and scale formation is very important in winter months.

10) Should I check my chemistry during winter?

This should not be necessary. If you want to check every couple of months, it’s up to you. However as the water temps begin to rise at the end of winter, it is necessary to check to ensure you pool is protected