With swimming ranked as the fourth most popular activity/sport in the United States, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, it’s no wonder many homeowners want to add a pool to their backyard. With pool ownership comes a lot of responsibility, and as temperatures outside start to fall, it’s time to focus on winterizing your pool. 

A properly winterized pool will be able to withstand cooler temperatures without getting damaged. Below are some pool maintenance tips to keep in mind when winterizing your pool this year. 

Properly Balanced Pool Water is Crucial

One of the first steps in the pool winterizing process is testing the water. Conducting a pH test of your water will give you an idea of what chemicals need to be added. Ideally, you want a pH level of between 7.2 to 7.4. 

You also need to take a look at total alkalinity levels to ensure they are in the 80 to 150 ppm range. Before you shut the pool down for winter, make sure that all visible algae is removed. The best way to remove visible algae is by shocking the pool and cleaning it afterward. You need to conduct the water balancing process a week before you intend to shut down the pool to ensure the chemicals have time to disperse. 

Don’t Forget to Lower Water Levels

Most newcomers to the world of the pool winterization process fail to realize that they have to lower the water levels. The amount of water that needs to be taken out of your pool will depend on the type of pool cover you are using. 

For instance, if you are using a pool safety cover, you need to bring your water levels down to at least six inches below the tile. If you are using a solid cover, then you need to bring down water levels to a few inches below your skimmer. 

Remove Water from Your Filter and Pump

Before you close your pool for winter, you need to check your filters. If you are using DE filters, then open them up and hose out the grids. You also need to inspect the filter for any tears or rips. 

Cartridge-style filters should be removed and cleaned. Once you have cleaned these filters, you can place them back into the cases to store for winter. Before you seal back up the cases, don’t forget to lubricate any O-rings that are present. 

Some inexperienced pool owners think that adding antifreeze to their pump is the best way to prevent freezing. In reality, adding antifreeze can damage your pump and seals. Completely draining the water from your filter and pump is the best way to protect these elements from extreme winter temperatures. 

Your Coventry Pool Care Experts

Properly winterizing your pool not only protects it against the cold weather elements but also makes for an easier pool opening come springtime. Give the pool care experts at The Pool Doctor of Rhode Island a call today to get your water balanced prior to pool winterization and grab everything you need to make for a worry-free pool closing experience. 

ABOUT THE COMPANY 

The Pool Doctor of Rhode Island is the leading full-service pool and spa company in Rhode Island. Their business had its beginnings in 1987 when co-owner Ron Leclerc began selling pool supplies out of the back of his Camaro. In 2001, Ron and his wife Debbie opened their 7,000 square foot facility in Coventry. This extensive and beautiful showroom is the result of years of hard work and represents a long-standing tradition of excellence and commitment to giving Rhode Islanders the best pool and spa service, advice, and products.  

From installing vinyl liner inground swimming pools to selling gorgeous Dimension One hot tubs to offering free water-testing and professional service in their store, The Pool Doctor of Rhode Island is your place for everything pool and spa. They are a proud BioGuard Platinum Dealer and also offer a huge selection of other brands of swimming pool and hot tub supplies, including Loop-Loc Pool Safety Covers, above ground pools, and Hayward equipment. But, more than anything, The Pool Doctor of Rhode Island strives to give their customers a wonderful experience from beginning to end. 

Visit The Pool Doctor of Rhode Island at 2200 Nooseneck Hill Road in Coventry or at splashtime.com or give them a call at (401) 392-1300. They serve all of Rhode Island, including Coventry, West Greenwich, East Greenwich, North Kingstown, South Kingstown, Exeter, Richmond, and Hopkinton.