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How to Keep Your Pool Healthy During Winter Months

Updated: 2 days ago


winter pool care tips

Just because your pool isn’t in use during winter doesn’t mean it should be ignored. Cold-weather neglect can lead to algae growth, equipment damage, and expensive repairs come spring. Whether you live in a mild or freezing climate, winter pool care is essential to maintaining water quality and prolonging the life of your pool system.


This guide walks you through the exact steps to keep your pool clean, safe, and protected through the colder months.


Why Winter Pool Maintenance Matters


Leaving your pool untreated in winter doesn’t just make for a dirty opening next season, it can actually damage your pool’s surface, plumbing, and equipment. Here’s what proper winter care prevents:


  • Algae buildup due to poor circulation or imbalanced chemicals.

  • Frozen pipes and cracked equipment from ice expansion.

  • Cloudy or murky water caused by organic debris or stagnation.

  • Premature wear on pumps, filters, and heaters.


Scheduling a professional pool closing service ensures your system is shut down correctly, especially if temperatures drop below freezing in your area.


Step-by-Step Winter Pool Maintenance Guide


1. Balance Your Pool Chemistry


Start by testing and adjusting:


  • pH (7.2–7.6)

  • Alkalinity (80–120 ppm)

  • Calcium hardness (180–220 ppm)

  • Chlorine or sanitizer levels



This creates a stable water environment that reduces corrosion, scale buildup, and algae formation.


Pro Tip: Schedule a one-time pool service before closing to professionally balance the water and deep clean the pool.


2. Clean Everything Thoroughly


Before winterizing:


  • Skim out leaves and debris.

  • Vacuum the pool floor.

  • Brush walls and tile lines.

  • Empty and rinse skimmer baskets.


Even small amounts of organic matter can rot and cause staining or water quality issues during the winter.


3. Shock and Sanitize


Apply a chlorine shock to kill any lingering contaminants before covering the pool. It helps maintain clean water over several weeks of inactivity. Don’t forget to run the pump for several hours afterward to circulate the treatment.


4. Lower Water Level if Needed


If you use a solid cover or live in an area that freezes, lower the water level below the skimmer to prevent ice damage. Consult with a pool professional to know how much water to remove based on your cover type and region.


5. Protect the Pool Equipment


Drain all water from:


  • Pumps

  • Filters

  • Heaters

  • Pipes


If water freezes inside, it can crack plumbing and equipment components. You can also add pool antifreeze in vulnerable lines for extra protection.


6. Clean or Replace the Filter


A clogged filter sitting all winter can breed bacteria or reduce effectiveness. If it’s a cartridge filter, clean or replace it. For DE or sand filters, backwash thoroughly.


Want it handled professionally? Ad-hoc filter cleaning service can keep your equipment functioning at its best.


7. Use a Quality Winter Cover


Choose a cover that fits tightly to prevent leaves, debris, and sunlight from getting in. Sunlight can trigger algae even in cold water, especially if chlorine levels drop.

Make sure to:


  • Remove standing water from the cover surface.

  • Tighten straps and inspect for tears weekly.


8. Check Periodically During the Off-Season


Don’t close your pool and forget it. Do a monthly check to:


  • Ensure cover is secured.

  • Test chemical levels if possible.

  • Remove snow or water buildup.

  • Look for equipment or plumbing issues.


This small effort goes a long way in preventing surprises at spring opening.


Final Thoughts


Keeping your pool healthy in winter doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A little effort before and during the off-season protects your investment and ensures a stress-free reopening when warm weather returns.


FAQs


How often should I check on my pool in winter?

Typically once a week to inspect the cover, test water (if possible), and remove debris or water buildup.

Do I need to run my pump during winter?

Can I leave water in my pool during freezing weather?

Is it necessary to shock the pool before closing it?

What happens if I don’t winterize my pool?


 
 
 

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