If you are wondering when is the right time to close your swimming pool for winter, there are several considerations to mull over to make a well-informed decision, rather than making some assumptions.
The closing of your backyard pool must not be according to your convenience — such as heading on an international vacation— instead, guided by proper guidance.
Assuming that you live in a geographical location where winterizing your pool cover is essential, here’s a quick guideline on when to close your pool.
Don’t Close Your Pool Too Early in the Season
As said earlier, closing your pool too early can be problematic. If the weather is too warm, then there would be great stress on chemical consumption. What’s worse, the chemicals you added into the pool water to protect till the spring may vanish much quickly.
The right timing of your pool closure will ensure that the winter chemicals will function optimally, and deter the growth of algae.
The concept of proper pool closing timing is to make sure that the pool is ready for spring opening. As a rule of thumb, your pool must remain open till the pool water is above the 15-degrees mark.
The pool water must be tested by experts to ensure the winter pool chemicals are added in the right volume. It is imperative to follow the guidelines of your pool manufacturers before putting in pool chemicals and closing your pool.
There’s No Perfect Time
As a matter of truth, there is no “Perfect-Time” to close your backyard pool for winter. The experts suggest opening the swimming pool late during the winter and opening it early as soon as the spring arrives.
As mentioned before, check whether the pool water temperature is continuously below 15-degrees. At this temperature, bacteria, algae, and microorganisms can’t develop.
If you close your swimming pool too early, the chances of a “Green Pool” are prevalent during the spring opening. Whether you choose to close your pool all by yourself or hire a professional, timing and procedures matter a lot.
How to Extend Your Pool Season?
The smartest way to extend your pool season is to install a solar cover. A solar pool cover is a structure of bubbles that absorb the sun’s light during the day. It uses the heat of the sun to keep the pool water at least 15-degrees higher than the outside weather. So, even during the winter evenings, you can host pool parties as the pool water would be cozy & comfortable to dive in. It can extend your swimming pool season at least by a month or two, based on your region’s geographical conditions. And, the best part is no cost is associated with enjoying warm pool water even during the cooler months of the year apart from the initial purchase.
Extending your pool season doesn’t mean you have to stay in the water even if it is cold outside. Install a patio cover to create a cozy space with features such as a heater or a fireplace. The patio cover will also protect your expensive outdoor furniture from the damage of snow and rain.
How To Close Your Pool Efficiently?
Here Are Proven Tips That Will Help You Winterize Your Pool Quickly and Easily:-
- At least five to seven days before the winter pool closing, add a phosphate remover to help keep algae out.
- Brush & vacuum the pool thoroughly to remove all debris.
- Water should be 4-6 inches below.
- Balance the pool chemistry with a pH level between 7.4-7.6, and alkalinity 80-120 ppm.
- Shock and chlorinate your pool.
- Drain pool lines and add pool antifreeze.
- Backwash your pool filter.
It is of paramount importance to invest time and effort for winter pool closing. Doing so, your spring opening can be hassle-free, and less expensive.