How to maintain a backyard pool in the winter

To maintain a backyard pool in the winter the first step is to properly close down the pool for winter. This involves fully draining the water from the pool and plumbing system.

Next, the pool water chemistry requires testing and adjustments. Chlorine levels are maintained at 1-3 parts per million to prevent algal growth under the pool cover. The water is also treated with algaecide for additional protection. Before closing up for winter, the pool should be thoroughly vacuumed and brushed to remove any debris.

All pumps, heaters and filters must have water drained from them to avoid freezing damage from icy temperatures. Once drained, these parts should be disconnected and safely stored indoors. And the pool cover needs to be securely fastened down to protect the water from leaving or foreign material entering the pool.

Pool Cover

Ensuring the pool is securely covered for winter is an important part of backyard pool maintenance when temperatures drop. A well-fitted safety cover prevents debris like leaves and other materials from blowing in, which could lead to clogged pumps and filters come springtime. It also keeps heat from escaping the water and protects against seasonal algal blooms that thrive under sunlight.

The cover needs to be fastened around the entire perimeter of the pool with tension straps, snaps or attachment buckles designed for low drag and waterlogging prevention through wind and rain. Any tears or punctures require prompt repairs to maintain full protection. It should fit snugly within the coping to discourage wildlife from entering the water as well.

Winter Pool Chemistry

While a pool is closed for the winter underneath its cover, the water still requires periodic balancing of its chemistry. About once a month, owners should test the pool’s chlorine, pH, alkalinity and stabilizer levels. Maintaining 1-3 parts per million of free chlorine is key to prevent algae growth in the relatively undisturbed water.

If chlorine levels begin to dip below the minimum, some additional chlorinating shock can be added directly through a pre-cut hole in the pool cover. It’s best to brush the shock over entire surface area for effective distribution. Proper pH between 7.2-7.6 and alkalinity around 80-120 ppm helps chlorine perform its sanitization role.

Why does pool maintenance matter in winter?

Pool maintenance matters for several key reasons:

Proper sanitization and chemistry balances the pool water to eliminate bacteria and viruses that could pose health risks to swimmers. Regulated chlorine levels are important to kill germs.

Performing regular maintenance like brushing, vacuuming and testing the water helps maintain clear, clean pool water. Dirty water could indicate problems and look unpleasant for use.

Taking care of pumps, filters and heaters extends their functioning life. Winterizing properly protects expensive components from freezing or weather damage.

Neglecting a pool can lead to severe issues down the line like algae blooms, corrosion or even a complete draining/refill which are very expensive to fix. Proper maintenance is cheaper.

How to maintain a backyard pool in the winter

Here are a few key things to do to maintain a backyard pool in the winter:

• Close the pool. Make sure all filters, pumps, and drains are closed properly to prevent water from draining out. Leave the pool cover on.
  
• Test water chemistry and add algaecide, chlorine or other chemicals to keep chlorine levels between 1-3 ppm. This prevents algae growth under the cover.
  
• Brush walls and vacuum. Before closing, thoroughly brush and vacuum to remove debris that could cause stains or algae problems when it warms up.
  
• Inspect equipment. Drain pumps and filters of all water before first freeze. Store parts safely indoors rather than leaving out in harsh winter weather.
  
• Check cover. Ensure the cover is securely fastened down so it doesn’t blow away or sustain damage through the winter. Repair or replace if needed.
  
• Winterize pumps. Drain water from pump, heater, filter and connected plumbing lines before temperatures drop. Add antifreeze to prevent freezing.
  

Taking these steps helps keep pool water balanced, walls clean and equipment protected so the pool is ready to open again for the next season.

What is winter care chemicals?

Winter pool care chemicals are special additions made to the water to preserve its quality while the pool sits unused and covered during colder months. The main winter chemicals used are: Continued use of chlorine helps prevent algae growth under the pool cover where sunlight can’t reach. Proper chlorine levels of 1-3 ppm are tested and maintained. Algaecide. An algaecide or anti-algae additive works with chlorine to strongly inhibit any microscopic algae from taking hold in the stagnant winter water.

Stabilizer. Stabilizer, also called cyanuric acid, prevents chlorine from rapidly burning off so a steady residual level is kept. It allows chlorine to last longer between additions. pH Balancer.The pool pH level, which indicates acidity, should be balanced at 7.2-7.6 for chlorine to function best. Adding pH increaser or pH decreaser as needed.

5 Tips for winter pool maintenance

Close the pool

Draining the pool is the first important step in winterizing. Remove the drain plug located in the pool bottom near the return lines. Use an external pump or siphon hose to transfer water to a lawn or wetland area where it can soak into the ground naturally without harming the environment. Avoid draining directly onto driveways or roads.

Disconnect power to all electric pumps, filters, heaters, lights, and automation systems to avoid unexpected operation or damage during freezing weather. Trip relevant breakers or pull fuses until spring start-up. For gas heaters, turn off the gas supply and natural convection vent damper (if present).

Winterize  equipment

Thoroughly drain all water from pumps, filters, filter tanks, pump baskets, and related components. Store drained parts in a dry, insulated area protected from rain, snow, and frost. Cover to prevent dust or rodent intrusion.

For parts that cannot be drained fully like submersible pumps, add non-toxic propylene glycol antifreeze designed for winter pool use. Read and follow product instructions for balancing solutions. Circulate antifreeze through jets, lines, pumps, and filters before storage.

Pool water testing and treatment

Even while closed, pool water requires periodic testing and treatment to prevent algae growth under the insulating cover. Check chlorine, pH, alkalinity, and stabilizer (cyanuric acid) levels every 4-6 weeks.

If chlorine levels dip below 1 ppm, add 1-3 teaspoons of shock or 1⁄4-1/2 inch of stable chlorine tablets directly through a hole in the cover. Distribute thoroughly with a pool brush to sanitize the entire volume.

Surface and interior cleaning

Before closing, run the pump and filter to brush and vacuum every visible surface and crevice to remove dirt, leaves, and debris. Waste collects on sides over winter if not removed.

Backwash cartridge-style filters one final time and rinse thoroughly. For DE or sand filters, clean or replace the media according to manufacturer instructions before storing the filter.

Protect pool features, lights, ladders, and drains from debris and moisture by wrapping in plastic, applying anti-corrosion spray, or storing indoors if possible. Seal wall fittings, grout lines, and cracks to block entry points.

Pool cover installation and maintenance

Examine the pool safety/insulation cover for integrity before use. Look for dry rot, punctures, tears, or weak points that need repair. Replace covers over 5 years old. Stretch the cover tightly over the pool, smoothing out any wrinkles. Secure all tie-down straps or anchors fastened through grommets around the entire perimeter. Further secure the cover to pool decks if possible.

At minimum check the cover every 2 months for snow/ice buildup that could cause damage. Brush off as needed. Adjust anchors if it appears loose to maintain a drum-tight seal to retain heat and block contaminants.

How to maintain an indoor pool for winters?

Here are some tips for maintaining an indoor pool during the winter months:

• Continue regular water testing. Test the pool water at least once a week and adjust chemicals as needed to keep it properly balanced. Chlorine levels may need to be higher since indoor pools don’t receive additional purification from sunlight.
  
• Run filters as usual. Indoor pools require continuous filtration to keep the water clean. Run filters for their recommended durations per day.
  
• Manage pH levels. Indoor pools can see wider pH swings so monitor levels closely and adjust as necessary to keep it in the ideal range of 7.2-7.6.
  
• Watch for algae. With less sunlight, algae can grow faster indoors. Check weekly for any green spots and treat with an algaecide if needed.
  
• Maintain proper disinfectant levels. Chlorine and other sanitizers work better at higher temperatures. Check ORP or chlorine readings regularly.
  
• Test for calcification. Hard water can cause scale buildup, especially around heaters and filters. Treat to avoid clogs and equipment damage.
  
• Inspect equipment. Check pumps, filters, heaters and motors monthly for issues since they are in constant use unlike seasonal outdoor pools.
  
• Prevent condensation. Run ventilation systems as required per manufacturer to maintain air movement and prevent glass surfaces from fogging up.
  

What happens if pool are not winterized?

People mainly ask question in winters how to maintain a backyard pool in the winter? Here are some issues that can occur if a pool is not properly winterized before cold weather arrives: Frozen and burst plumbing .Water left in supply lines, pipes, filters, and pumps is at risk of expanding as it freezes and causing ruptures or cracks. Equipment damage . Pumps, filters, heaters, etc exposed to freezing can have internal damage as parts swell or break apart from ice formation. This is expensive to repair.

Without chemicals like chlorine, algae thrives under the insulating pool cover throughout winter. It’s difficult to remove completely in spring. Staining and dirt buildup . Debris that sinks to the bottom is suspended in warmer water but settles during a freeze, staining the walls and requiring resurfacing to remove. Structure cracks . Expansive ice in an unmaintained pool can cause cracking of the shell, coping or other surfaces from freezing pressure.

Untreated water allows pH swings, low sanitizer levels, scale development that make spring start-up difficult to correct. Safety issues . Without maintenance, leaks or cover damage may cause unchecked water levels, slip hazards, or attract wildlife/insects. 

Activities pool owners should avoid in winters

Here are some activities that pool owners should avoid during the winter months:

• Adding water . Without a working filtration system, any additional water will quickly become contaminated and difficult to balance. It’s best to leave the pool empty over winter.
  
• Operating equipment . Pumps, filters, heaters and other mechanical components need to be fully drained and stored properly to prevent freezing damage. Running them out of season can lead to breakdowns.
  
• Entering the pool area . The wet surfaces become slip hazards when icy. Standing water can damage surrounding structures by freezing and expanding underneath.
  
• Testing/treating the water . Chemicals added without circulation won’t properly disperse. Testing is also less accurate in still water that isn’t filtered. Stick to visual inspections only.
  
• Removing the cover . Prematurely uncovering allows unwanted debris like leaves to blow in before brushing and vacuuming can begin in spring.
  
• Adjusting straps/anchors . The tight cover seal should not be disturbed until removal time. Loosening anchor points risks breakage from wind gusts.
  
• Applying heat . No equipment should attempt to maintain temperatures conducive to bacteria growth without full chemical treatment and filtration operating properly.
  
• Swimming or wading . Obviously entering non-heated pool water in cold weather poses health risks from hypothermia or accidental slips.
  

Patience during winter shut down ensures the pool system avoids needless wear or potential damage without benefit until conditions are ideal for safe use again.