Whether it is summer or winter, be prepared with our guide to pool maintenance care for all four seasons.
Are you considering a backyard swimming pool but worried about all the maintenance involved? While a swimming pool does require some work to keep up, it’s not nearly as much effort as it used to be. With the introduction of many automated devices, you can spend less time maintaining your pool and more time enjoying it. We’ve got a rundown of pool maintenance throughout the year so you can decide if a backyard pool is the right choice for your family.
Fall
When the leaves start to turn and temperatures drop, you need to get your pool ready for winter. First, balance your water chemistry and backwash your filter. Lower the water level to below the mouth of your skimmer to protect it from freeze damage. Drain and disconnect all your pool equipment like the pump, filter and heater. Blow out all your plumbing and seal so that water doesn’t get in during the winter season. Remove all diving boards and ladders and store in a dry place. Add winterizing solution to keep your water clean and blue until next season. Once your pool is properly winterized, place your winter cover over the top and you are good to go until spring.
Winter
There is little that needs to be done to your pool during the winter, but that doesn’t mean you should forget about it completely. Check periodically to ensure your cover remains intact. If you notice any problems, repair sooner rather than later to avoid additional damage to your pool.
Spring
When flowers begin to bloom and birds start to sing, it’s time to bring your pool out from under its winter hiding. First, clean debris off your cover and pump standing water away. Remove the cover and bring the water level in the pool up to the normal operating depth. Fire up your filter system and the rest of your pool equipment, checking it carefully for leaks. Dirt on the sides and bottom of the pool should be cleaned thoroughly using your automated pool cleaner. Water chemistry should be brought up to speed with testing and the addition of necessary chemicals. Reinstall your ladders and diving board and you are ready to swim.
Summer
This is the busiest time for pool maintenance because your pool sees so much use. Daily skimming of debris and weekly water tests are a must to keep your pool safe and healthy. You will to replace chemicals as needed to maintain a proper water balance. It is also important to shock the pool a couple of times during the swimming season, especially after a big storm or pool party. Your automated pool cleaner will also see plenty of use, keeping the sides and floor of your pool spic and span.
There you have it: a year of pool maintenance in a single handy schedule. Of course, this is just a basic overview that will fluctuate somewhat based on the type of pool you have. However, sticking with a regular maintenance schedule is the key to keeping your pool safe, healthy and beautiful.
