the warm weather has passed, it is time to winterize your pool. First, thoroughly backwash the filter and clean the strainer. Check the ph level and get it as close to 7.4 as possible. Super chlorinate with unstabilised chlorine to kill any algae that may be present. Add a proprietary winterizing fluid such as Winterclear, Winterclean, or Wintertop in accordance with the manufacturers instructions. These are designed to inhibit algae growth and minimize the risk of mineral staining. Turn on the circulation long enough to mix the solution throughout the pool. Now lower the water level so that it is below the skimmers. This allows pressure to be applied against the pool walls as the frozen ground attempts to push inward during the winter. Drain water from the filter, pump, heater and pipe work. Leave valves above water level open. Those below the water level should be closed and protected against frost damage. Remove ladders, diving boards, and summer covers and store them away from extremes of temperature. Finally, switch off the electrical supply. Float one or two weighted and sealed polythene bottles, perhaps used chemical containers, on the pool surface to absorb the expansion of ice. Cover the pool with a heavy-duty pool cover. You may want to check the appearance of the water during winter, especially as spring approaches or if the winter is mild. We have discussed everything you need to open and close an outdoor swimming pool. You now possess the knowledge to maintain an outdoor pool throughout the year. Both winterizing and opening a pool can be tricky at times, but once you get the hang of it you will do everything from memory. Good luck with your pool maintenance....
