Winter is upon us, and most people have already closed down the pool for the season. However, while pool chores are largely finished for several months once the pool cover goes on, there are still a few things you can do to make your life easier in the spring. If you properly winterize the pool, getting ready for swimming season will be a snap. Before you head down to the pool store, here are a few things to keep in mind.
Phosphate Remover
If your pool had a problem with algae this summer, you probably should invest in some phosphate remover. Algae feeds on phosphates which can come from decaying grass and leaves in the pool, runoff from fertilized lawns, and health and beauty products that the swimmers use on their bodies and hair. Also, if you cover your pool with a mesh cover that allows run-off from leaves to enter the pool, you may end up with excess phosphates in the pool. Removing the excess phosphates is pretty simple. Just add a bottle of phosphate remover, and in the spring, when you turn on the pump, the excess will be filtered out of the water.
Metal Removers
If you live in an area that has hard water, you are probably already familiar with the hard water scum and metal deposits that your water can leave. To avoid stains and limestone scale from building up on your pool surfaces, a metal remover will keep these minerals dissolved in the water over the winter.
Enzymes
Enzymes are microbes that can digest other chemicals. If your area generally has plenty of pollen or air pollution, adding an enzyme to your pool water over the winter can get rid of contaminants and will help the water stay clear.
Examine Your Tools
While things like pool poles and pool brushes last a long time, they do need to be replaced every now and then. While you have time this winter, check out your pool tools and see what needs to be replaced or repaired. That pool pole that’s being held together with duct tape? It might be time to invest in a new one from the pool store.
Stock Up on Bargains
Some pool stores run sales on items during the colder months. You may want to check out your local pool store bargains to see what you can buy to save money next spring. Be sure that you check proper storage methods to keep what you do pick up in good condition until spring.
When you think about these things in the winter, you are just a few steps away from having an effortless pool opening when the weather begins to get warmer.
