Owning a swimming pool requires maintenance. Unless you live in a very warm climate you must winterize your swimming pool. The article below tells you what to do. Adjust the instructions for pool care to your climate and type of pool. Each pool installed should come with instructions. And always seek the help of a local professional if you have special concerns for your swimming pool.

Winterizing Your Swimming Pool

Once winter begins, it will be time to close your pool.  When shutting your pool down, the first step is the water.  Begin by checking the pH level, and making sure that it is around 7.5.  If it isn’t, simply add some dry acid.  Also check the chlorine and use a winterizing product to make sure your pool will be protected from algae during the non-swimming months.

During the winter months, run your pump around 6 hours a day, to ensure algae doesn’t settle in.  Also check for any types of leaks, then switch your skimmer valve off and let the water drain to around 6 inches below the skimmer’s bottom.  This way, you’ll have the preferred amount of water in your pool.

If you use a summer cover, take it down and give it a good cleaning. Use fresh water and a pressure washer if you have access to one.  Once you have cleaned the cover thoroughly, put it in a building or garage and break out your winter cover.  When you put your winter cover on the pool, make sure that you have plenty of tension on the cover, to prevent anything from getting under it.

Check your cover every once in awhile to make sure it stays tight.  Remind your family and friends your pool is closed for the winter, and that they shouldn’t be around it.  Pool covers are designed to protect your pool - they aren’t installed for safety.  Never, let a pet or a person get on the cover.

Once you have finished changing the covers, consider your pool's equipment.  Ddrain the water from the pump, heater, and filter.  Each one should have a drain plug located somewhere near the bottom, which makes it easy to drain the water out.  Never forget this, because the water can freeze inside of your equipment during the cold months and result in permanent damage of your equipment.

Once you've winterized your swimming pool, relax knowing your pool is protected.  Keeping a check on it occassionally will ensure nothing has happened.  Summer will arrive again, and you can open it up again.  Do things right the first time and your pool will be ready for swimming again in no time at all.