Always Remove The Pool Pump
When pumping water out of your pool, don’t forget to remove the pump—even if it’s unplugged! Many clients are surprised to learn that the pump can continue siphoning water, much like how gas can be siphoned from a car with a hose.
Protect Your Pipes by Running Filters Overnight
Still using their pools or pool/spa combos during the winter months? Wilfrid recommends adjusting your filter settings to run overnight once temperatures drop below 38 degrees. Automation systems with freeze protection will automatically activate pumps during cold nights, so there’s no need to run the filter both day and night. By switching to nighttime filtration, you can save on electricity costs. If your pool doesn’t have an automated freeze protection system, running the filter overnight can also help prevent pipes and equipment from freezing.
Don’t Forget to Monitor Water Levels in Winter!
While it’s important to lower your pool’s water level before closing it, you should also keep an eye on it throughout the winter months? Rain and snow can raise water levels, even beneath your pool cover. Be sure to check your pool’s water levels around Thanksgiving or earlier, depending on the weather. If there’s excess water, be sure to drain it from both the pool and skimmers to prevent any issues.
Check Your Skimmer Baskets
As autumn arrives, start checking skimmer baskets more frequently. As the leaves start to fall, you may have to do it every day or more than once a day!
Evaporating Water
A low water level doesn’t always indicate a leak in your pool! During heat waves, evaporation can cause the water level to drop noticeably. Just ensure that the water remains about half way up the skimmer “mouth”.
Shock Your Pool!
Be sure to “shock” your pool regularly (either chlorine or non-chlorine types work great) during heat waves. Once a week is recommended to keep the water looking, feeling and smelling great. And don’t forget to clean your filter!
Service Your Pool Heater
If you have a fuel-fired gas heater, just like you would have your furnace serviced, you should have your pool heater serviced by a licensed gas professional.
Keep Your Water Balanced
When you open your pool, regardless of water clarity, give the pool water a “double shock.” The pool has not been filtering for some time, so it needs this oxidation process. After a few days of filtering and having allowed that shock to do its job, get the water professionally tested. It’s free at Aqua Pool! When the water is properly balanced, the expensive chemicals work better. In other words, make sure you keep the water balanced, not just looking clear.
