As the mercury drops, the thought of swimming in your backyard pool becomes a distant memory. However, just because your pool isn’t being used doesn’t mean that you don’t have to care for it!  Pool maintenance is just as important in winter as it is in the summer season so we’ve put together this guide of what you should be doing to keep your pool healthy and clean during the colder months.  If you need any further help however, just have a chat to your local pool maintenance specialist.  They’ll be only too happy to help.

Give it a Good Clean

The number one thing that you need to do before you allow your pool to go dormant is to give it a really good clean.  You can do this by thoroughly scrubbing the tiles to remove all the debris.  As well, give the pool equipment (skimmers, filters, etc) a good clean as well.  Cleaning is important as it’ll stop algae from forming and it will also make maintenance over winter much easier.

Cover the Pool

If you don’t plan on swimming often or at all during winter, it’s a great idea to use a pool cover or a pool blanket.  This will stop leaves and other debris falling into the water, causing you to have to clean it more.  Remember to take the blanket or cover off regularly though or you risk algae starting to grow.

Rebalance the Pool Chemicals

At the start of winter, it’s a great idea to rebalance your pool chemicals.  You’ll need to ensure that the alkalinity and pH levels are correct.  If they’re not, add the appropriate chemicals to return the water to a state of balance.  You’ll also want to shock (super chlorinate) your pool and add the recommended dose of algaecide.  When you are rebalancing your pool, you’ll need to run the filter for at least 8 hours to ensure that the chemicals mix through the water appropriately.

Continue to Run Pool Filtration

Something else that you’ll need to do over winter is to continue to run your pool filter. You may not think it is necessary but running the filter for three to four hours a day will keep the water clean and help the water to stay in an ideal state of balance.

Continue to Test the Pool Water

Once you have rebalanced your pool, you’ll still need to regularly test your pool water to ensure that the chemicals are still present in appropriate levels.  A simple water testing kit from your local pool shop is more than adequate and you’ll know exactly what chemicals you’ll need to add, if any.