Now that winter is truly underway and temperatures are at their coldest, you have swapped the swimsuits for sweaters. However, this does not mean that you neglect to give your pool the TLC that it needs to remain in good shape. Even if you have closed the gates and put on the heavy cover, the water underneath is still a living environment that reacts to the elements. Find out how to protect your pool, even when it’s not in use.

Testing the Balance Before the Big Freeze

Even though you have closed your pool for the season, you still want to test the water chemistry monthly. This is because rainwater and melting snow often find their way under the cover. When this happens, the water’s acidity will change quite quickly. If the pH level climbs too high, your chlorine stops working. This will allow algae spores to grow even in chilly conditions. You can use a basic test kit to make sure the levels stay between 7.2 and 7.6.

Protecting Equipment From the Elements

Frozen pipes can wreak havoc on your pool. To prevent this problem, ensure that all water is drained from the pump and filter system.

You can use a shop vacuum to blow air through the lines until they are completely dry. This creates a protective pocket of air. For enhanced safety, you can add a specialized pool antifreeze to the plumbing to prevent freezing. However, make sure you never use automotive antifreeze. It contains chemicals that are toxic to humans.

Managing the Cover and Debris

A heavy layer of leaves on top of your pool cover is an eyesore and can affect your pool water. This organic matter provides a feast for bacteria to grow and thrive. To keep things from getting out of hand, use a soft broom or a leaf blower to clear the surface of the cover every couple of weeks.

You also want to keep large puddles of water from forming in the center of the cover. Such buildup puts massive stress on the springs and anchors that hold everything in place. You can use a small submersible pump to remove this excess weight before the ice’s weight causes the cover to collapse into the pool.

Watching for Algae in Early Spring

As the days grow longer and the sun begins to warm the air, the water temperature will rise slowly. Algae thrives in water that is warmer than sixty degrees. So, you might need to add a mid-winter dose of algaecide to keep the water clear.

You should also have a professional inspect the pool once during the winter. This way, you can address problems before opening season. For pool water testing and balancing, contact Galati Pools and Spas in Newburgh, NY.