With the temperatures dropping, pool owners must take the appropriate steps to prepare for the winter season. Closing your in-ground pool properly can help save you money on maintenance and repairs when summer rolls by. However, if you’re wondering whether or not you should drain your pool, here is everything you need to know about what it can do to your in-ground pool over the winter.

How Is Your Pool Damaged by Draining the Water Over the Winter?

Draining your in-ground pool completely before the winter can cause a number of problems. Vinyl liner pools are installed with vacuums that keep the liner in place until the pool has been filled with water. If you drain the pool, the vinyl will no longer be held in place by the water weight; it will shrink and dry out. This will lead to the need for a costly liner replacement by the time you have to reopen your pool. Draining the pool also requires you to waste a significant amount of water to refill it.

What Should You Do Instead of Draining the Water?

There are several steps you can take to protect your pool from damage and contamination during the winter. You can add chemicals, such as chlorine shock and algaecide, to the water that will keep it clean and balanced during the offseason. Installing a winter cover will also preserve the water and chemical balance. You can also use antifreeze to keep the pool line and pumps from freezing over. 

When it’s time to schedule routine maintenance for your in-ground pool, turn to the team at The Pool Guys. Serving the Troy, MO, area for over 30 years, the friendly pool experts specialize in a wide range of services, including everything from custom designs and renovations to hot tub installations. Call (636) 462-7665 today to speak with one of their contractors, or visit their website for more information about their services.