Home Improvement

The Right Way to Close Your Pool for the Winter

Pool owners (and their kids) look forward to opening the pool and taking that first dip every summer. The thought of closing the pool for the winter isn't quite as alluring. But making sure it is done properly is important.

"Closing down your pool the right way in the winter makes a big difference in necessary maintenance costs as well as how long it will take to get it opened up again next year," notes John Puder,  of WaterWarehouse.com, an online source for pool supplies.

With that in mind, here are seven steps to winterizing your pool.

1. Clean the pool completely - brush walls, vacuum and leaf skim.

2. Make certain pH and alkalinity are in balance.

3. Add winterizing chemicals. The Water Warehouse Winter Value Pack has everything you need to close your pool in one kit, including winter control algae fighter, Metal Out for controlling general stains and eliminating scum and mineral deposits, a floating slow-dissolving winter oxidizer and non-chlorine Oxi Shock. Read directions thoroughly and follow them completely.

4. Drain the pool to the desired water level - usually below the return fittings.

5. Per the instructions that came with your pool, add pool grade anti-freeze to plumbing lines and plug lines and skimmers where necessary.

6. Following manufacturer's instructions, close down the filter system - be sure to check all drain plugs.

7. Cover your pool properly and securely. Water Warehouse has a cover for every need, for both in-ground and above-ground pools. In addition to being a safety feature, especially for in-ground pools, covers also protect your pool from the harsh winter weather. "You may not think about it, but chances are you'll have to paint less and do fewer repairs over the long hall if you use the right cover in the winter," says Puder. Cover options range from leaf nets and mesh covers for milder climates to the  Solid Safety Cover for the ultimate in protection for your pool and your family.  

Visit www.waterwarehouse.com for all your pool needs, as well as tips on making the most of your pool. The Web site offers free shipping, expert advice and a huge selection.

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