We have all heard that prevention is better than cure. The same goes for swimming pools – this means not only regular cleaning of your pool but also maintaining it with the proper chemical balance to avoid stains or algae. The best time to start treating your pool for fall maintenance is while the weather is still warm, so any chemical treatment you add to your pool can get to work right away.
Here are some great tips to help you with this process:
Take out all equipment and give it a good clean before closing down.
Thoroughly wash any exterior surfaces of your pump, filter, and cleaning tools (ladders, brush, etc.) and then give them a thin coating of oil to prevent rusting.
Clean your pool while the weather is still warm.
Although you should not hesitate to close your pool while it is raining, it is best to clean your pool while there’s some warmth in the air. As soon as it starts getting cold, algae can form rather quickly, and your pool could be out of commission until the new season.
Test water balance regularly.
If you know what chemical make up your pool has (i.e.: chlorine or salt), then always check it before closing it down to ensure that there aren’t any major changes in the make-up of the water, as this will make it difficult to treat once the pool has been filled. A slight drop in chlorine levels may occur over time due to regular bathers and evaporation, but many pools have a constant level throughout the year.
Add a winter chemical.
If your pool tends to be out of order more than it’s in order during the colder months, the best thing to do is introduce a special winter chemical that will protect your pool from damage. There are different types of chemicals available at your local pool supplies store – ask a specialist for advice on which would be best suited for you and your particular type of pool.
Add a clarifier.
Another great way to protect your pool during the cooler months is to use a clarifier. These special chemicals will help dissolve any organic matter that may have accumulated over the warmer seasons and cause cloudy water, as well as prevent it from forming again. Furthermore, if you plan on opening your pool early (during spring), then using a clarifier will ensure that the water is ready for use from day one.
Shock your pool.
If you don’t want to add a clarifier, then the easiest way to ensure that your pool is sparkling by the time it opens again is to shock it. Like a clarifier, a shock treatment dissolves organic matter and helps keep your pool clean, but it also kills bacteria and algae, helping to keep your pool safe for bathers.
Let the pump run.
The final tip is extremely simple – turn your pump on every now and then! By letting the water circulate through the filter, you’re not only giving it a light clean but also making sure that any calcium deposits (a common cause of cloudy water) don’t stick to the walls of your pool.
For more information about fall pool maintenance, contact the pool professionals at Aquanomics Pools.