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To keep your swimming pool in good condition over the winter—as well as the drains, filter, and pool pump—you need to provide a bit of maintenance before closing it for the year. It's not difficult work, but it takes a bit of time and effort. Below are the key steps to help you get your pool ready for the cold.

How to Winterize Your Swimming Pool

1. Test the Water

First, test the water for chlorine, pH, alkalinity, and hardness. Then adjust the levels as necessary to bring it into balance. Levels vary based on test kit manufacturer recommendations, but on average they should be as follows: pH should be between 7.2 and 7.8. Adjust alkalinity to 80 to 120 ppm. For calcium hardness, follow kit instructions for winter. Add chlorine until it reads 2 to 3 ppm.

2. Clean the Pool

pool pumpRemove all leaves and debris using a leaf rake or pool net. Brush and vacuum the sides and bottom. Remove any scum at the waterline by using tile cleaner.

3. Add Winterizing Kit

You can find pool winterizing kits at any pool store and many department stores. Apply this according to the directions. These shock the pool water to destroy any contaminants and prevent algae growth while the pool is not in use.

4. Clean Components

Remove and clean all pool components, including the skimmer, the pool pump, and the filter. Remove unused chlorine from the chlorinator. If the pump needs repair, have it fixed now so it's ready to go when warm weather returns.

5. Clear Plumbing Lines

Blow air out of the plumbing lines using an air compressor or wet/dry vac. Failure to do this could lead to frozen and burst pipes. Add pool-safe antifreeze to keep pipes safe.

6. Remove Drain Plugs

Pull the drain plugs from the filter tank and pool pump. Consider detaching the tank and pump and storing them in your basement or garage to provide some protection against the cold.

7. Cover the Pool

Add a winter cover to keep the pool free of snow and debris. To keep it off the water, place a pool float between it and the pool surface. Cover any other equipment that you can’t take indoors.

 

If you need pool pump repair prior to closing your pool for the season, contact A-1 Electric Motor Service in Covington, KY. They've been serving the greater Cincinnati area since 1961 and specialize in pump and electric motor repair. They also offer expert welding, winding, and machining services. Visit their website to communicate with the team or call (859) 291-1351 to schedule a consultation.

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