Winterizing Your Pool: Preparing For The Canadian Winter

As the leaves begin to turn, the school year begins, and there’s a sign of cooler days around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about winterizing your pool. Properly closing your pool for the winter protects it from the elements and makes reopening it next spring a breeze.

Here’s your essential guide to winterize your pool:

Deciding When to Winterize Your Pool

If You’re Still Using Your Pool, Watch The Weather:

The best time to start winterizing your pool is when the daytime temperatures consistently drop below 18°C.

This temperature is a key indicator that it’s time to close up shop as algae growth slows down, making it easier to maintain your pool over the winter.

If It’s The End Of Your Swimming Season:

Generally speaking, if you’re no longer using your pool regularly and don’t plan to go back in, then it’s time to begin the winterization process.

Steps to Effectively Winterize Your Pool

Clean the Pool

Begin by thoroughly cleaning your pool.

Remove any leaves, debris, and dirt from the water.

Brush and vacuum the walls and floor of the pool to ensure it’s as clean as possible before covering it.

Balance the Water Chemistry

About a week before you plan to close your pool, adjust the water chemistry for pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness.

This step is crucial to protect the pool’s surfaces and equipment during the winter months.

Lower the Water Level

Draining your water to the correct level will prevent freezing and potential damage.

This level depends on the type of pool cover you plan to use.

Tropical Pools & Spas can advise on the correct level if you’re not sure.

Add Winter Chemicals

Use a winterizing chemical kit to keep the water clear of algae and bacteria throughout the winter.

Tropical Pools & Spas can advise on the proper winter kit to use depending on whether you use a cover, left net, or no cover over the winter.

Protect the Equipment

Drain all water from your pool’s pump, heater, filters, and hoses.

Any water left in the equipment can freeze and cause damage over the winter.

Store all removable parts indoors to protect them from the elements.

Cover Your Pool

Install a quality winter cover to protect your pool from debris and weather conditions.

Ensure the cover fits snugly and is secured to withstand winter winds.

Reopening with Ease

Taking the time to correctly winterize your pool will make reopening it in the spring much smoother.

You’ll prevent damage and avoid unnecessary repairs, setting the stage for another great swimming season.