5 Tips for Maintaining Water Balance in Your Pool During Winter

The winter season is undoubtedly harsh on your inground, on-ground, or above-ground pool. The freezing temperatures, snow, and ice can cause damage to the pool’s structure and water balance, resulting in costly repairs. Maintaining water balance in your pool during winter is crucial to prevent damage to the pool and equipment, which is why we offer five essential tips for maintaining water balance in your pool during the winter season.

If you live in a climate where you completely winterize your pool, including shutting down the pump and filtration, then maintaining your water chemistry is based on one rule: The way you close it is the way you’ll open it! Balance your water properly, in terms of alkalinity, PH and chlorine, as well as a dose of algaecide. Make sure to circulate your pool water for at least 24 hours after adding the necessary chemicals to balance your water before shutting down your pump and filtration.

If you live in a climate where you don’t cover your pool and keep the pool operating but with little or no use, then check your water monthly and keep it fully balanced year-round.

If you live in a climate where you cover your pool, but keep the pump and filtration operating, then follow these 5 steps:

1. Keep the Water Level Proper

A proper water level is essential as it helps in preventing damage because of freezing. It would help if you lowered the water level below the skimmer level to prevent skimmer and plumbing damage. An ideal water level is between two-thirds and three-quarters of the pool’s height. If you use an automatic pool cover, ensure that the water level is below the cover to prevent pressure damage.

2. Monitor the pH Level Regularly

A balanced pH level helps protect your pool and equipment during the winter months. You should aim to maintain a pH level between 7.2 and 7.8. If the pH level rises above 7.8, it can cause scaling and cloudiness of the water. In contrast, if the pH level falls below 7.2, it can cause corrosion of pool equipment. This can be accomplished on a monthly basis by partially removing the pool cover to test the water and add chemicals as required.

3. Adjust the Chemical Levels

The three critical elements in swimming pool maintenance are chlorine, alkalinity, and calcium hardness. Chlorine helps disinfect the pool water and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, whereas alkalinity balances the pH level. Calcium hardness prevents calcium buildup in the pool, which can cause scaling, leading to expensive repairs. The ideal levels are 1-3 ppm for chlorine, 80-120ppm for alkalinity, and 200-400 ppm for calcium hardness. Always ensure that you add the chemicals in small amounts and test the water until you achieve the desired levels.

4. Invest in a Pool Safety Cover

Pool safety covers provide an extra layer of protection, preventing accidents and unauthorized access to the pool. They are designed to withstand weight, keeping children, pets, and unwanted visitors safe from potential hazards. Additionally, pool safety covers help maintain water cleanliness by preventing debris from entering the pool, which reduces the strain on your filtration system and makes your pool maintenance routine easier. A pool cover also helps maintain water temperature, preventing the water from freezing, which can damage the pool’s structure and equipment.

5. Schedule a Professional Pool Maintenance

If you’re not up to maintaining the pool water yourself, then contract with a professional pool maintenance team that is equipped with the skills and tools to perform routine maintenance tasks on your pool. They not only help keep your pool clean but also help identify minor repairs before they escalate to major ones, saving you money overall.

Call The Pros at Pool Fits

Maintaining your pool during the harsh winter months doesn’t have to be a laborious task. By adhering to these five essential tips, you can keep your pool in great condition, ready to enchant once again when spring rolls around. But remember, if you need assistance with pool covers or pool liners, don’t hesitate to call our experts at Pool Fits. Our professional team is always ready to help you keep your pool safe, clean, and beautiful year-round. Don’t let winter weather threats catch you unprepared—reach out to Pool Fits today!