It’s A Love-Hate Thing

I have a love-hate relationship with the end of the summer. While it has been nice to enjoy some beach time, to spend weekends barbecuing, and not have to worry about my kids getting their homework done, there is comfort in welcoming back the routine of the school year (and pumpkin flavored EVERYTHING!)

For pool owners around the country, closing the pool is one of the many items on the fall to-do list. For me, it is at the bottom of the list, as I like to leave the pool open as long as possible in the hopes of those Indian Summer days. Well Gizmo, the Pool Scouts mascot, is here to tell us that procrastinating the pool closing is okay…at least for a little while!

The best time to close the pool is when the temperatures start dropping.  This will stave off algae growth and help keep the water in better condition throughout the winter months. While it is okay milk those last few days of warm weather that fall sometimes affords us, you do want to make sure you winterize your pool before the temperatures drop too low. Otherwise, the system could sustain damage, like cracked pipes.

In warmer climates, it is okay to leave your pool uncovered, but your pool will still require some maintenance. Your pool water will still need to be balanced, and the filter system will need to be monitored to ensure upkeep and proper operation.

Pool Scouts can help prep your pool for the winter months. Whether you decide to bundle your pool up for winter or keep the pool open, our technicians can prep your pool for spring success!

Some key steps involved in closing pools includes:

• Remove all leaves and debris from the pool
• Vacuum the pool
• Backwash the filter system
• Lower water to the appropriate level
• Test water and add wintering chemicals as needed
• Drain, disassemble and clean filter elements for storage
• Drain pump and heater
• Plug returns and skimmers
• Remove and store deck equipment (ladders and handrails ect…)
• Inspect and Install the winter cover
• Blow off pool deck area and equipment pad

Some steps for preparing your pool to remain open in colder months:

• Balance the water
• Double check and monitor filter system
• Shift chemicals and timers for winter months
• Confirm and/or tweak maintenance schedule for the winter

As usual, this summer flying by, and before we know it, Labor Day will be upon us. While the change of seasons brings new adventures and an abundance of holidays to celebrate, we’ll long for the long, hot days of summer when that first cold day hits! While you too, will have a list of to-dos as we head into fall, be sure to plan ahead and cross “take care of pool” off your list. It isn’t too soon to reach out to Pool Scouts to schedule your pool closing!  Visit Poolscouts.com for more information or call 844-SPLASH-2 (844-775-2742).