Swimming pool maintenance, as most already know, is not only about cleaning and maintaining the pool on a day-to-day basis. It’s also about properly preparing the pool for the times when it won’t be used. Depending on the region of the country, and depending on the weather, your pool contractor can recommend the maximum/minimum temperatures (nighttime and daytime) that will set the stage for opening and closing the swimming pool.There are some basics to follow, and of course, some complexities. Closing too soon, for instance, can contribute to algae growth, while closing too late can turn into a major cleanup of fall leaves. Either way, opening or closing is an undertaking that requires time and patience. And closing down for the winter might be the more involved undertaking than opening in spring or summer. For those who have the right equipment and previous experience, things will go a little easier.
Closing the pool will typically involve winterizing – it means protecting the plumbing, equipment and structural components from freezing. Prior to closing, it’s recommended to carefully inspect everything, and to make sure it’s all working properly. If any repairs are required, now is the time to have them done, and in most cases, a professional contractor would be best to consult. This is because most of the pool equipment is mechanically complex and will require proficiency.
For pool water, there are some fundamentals: the water should be clean; the pH levels should be balanced; and the water level should be correct. All of this should be based on the manufacturer’s specifications. With a good pool contractor on board, you can be sure that this will be handled professionally. In some situations, it’s recommended to use winterizing chemicals, and again, it’s important to refer to the product instructions. With this, it’s much better to be safe than sorry.
For those with some experience, it may be easy to deal with drains, valves, heaters and filters. But in most cases, this is best left to the experts - those who have the proper equipment, as well as the experience and expertise. Indeed, the special winterizing products and techniques may be beyond the capacity of the typical homeowner. For the professionals, closing the pool is routine, and the only thing left to do is installing a strong, durable, tight cover.
With a thorough and comprehensive pool closing prior to the winter, the opening process can be simple and straightforward. However, it’s still a good idea to keep a close eye on the pool while it’s closed – like paying attention to rain and snow and ice accumulation, and checking the pool cover from time to time. When it’s time to open the pool, the procedure is just the reverse of the closing process. And with a good closing in winter, everything is ready to go for the spring.
Having the swimming pool opened by a professional company has definite advantages. And working side by side allows the homeowner to carry on with proper upkeep and maintenance habits that will ensure peak performance.
