Common Pool Winterising Mistakes

If you've decided you won't be using your pool throughout the cooler months, there are a few vital steps you need to take to ensure the health of your pool while it hibernates. Here is a list of common winterising mistakes that can lead to costly problems:

1. Failing to shock your pool. Remember to shock the pool as directed on the product packaging.

2. Forgetting to adjust the pool pH to 7.2-7.8. This pH level will prevent staining, scaling, and algae growth.

3. Failing to thoroughly vacuum and skim your pool water for floating and sunken debris. 

4. Not adding algaecide to prevent algae blooms and growth.

5. Not properly testing your pool water before closing it. People often guess their levels, and this can lead to issues.

6. Letting your phosphate levels get too high. This is often caused by leaves in the pool. Use a phosphate remover to balance your levels. 

7. Failing to clean your filter. Any grease or oil deposits will harden through winter and make the filter harder to clean when spring rolls around.

8. Forgetting about your salt cells. As a rule of thumb, salt cells should be cleaned every 3-4 months to help them live their longest life. If you see white calcification building up in your cell, it's definitely time for a clean.

9. Failing to secure your pool cover. Including attaching and tightening straps where appropriate and ensuring the edge of the cover is tight to the deck surface to prevent wind incursions.

10. Failing to keep up a basic maintenance schedule. Once you've completed your winter prep, it's vital that you stick to a basic maintenance schedule to ensure your pool water is balanced and your equipment is performing properly. Once a week, do a quick visual inspection of your entire pool system.

If you'd like a professional to help close your pool for winter, you can connect with hundreds of local technicians using our Dealer Locator.