Florida is a warm southern state, so pools could be used year round in many of the southern counties. This is true but even south Florida can get some cold days during the winter. If you’re not heating your pool during the winter chances are it is probably cooler than you would like for a dip. Here are 5 maintenance tips for you to consider while the weather cools off.
1. Clean the pool thoroughly as normal.
Keep your filter clean and vacuum as usual. Even though you are probably using your swimming pool less frequently during the winter months, if at all, it is still important to maintain a cleaning routine. Empty debris traps every few days to prevent leaves and rubbish from building up and clogging your pool’s filtration system.
2. Balance the chemicals.
Maintain the pool’s chemicals in the winter as you would in the summer. At the very least, balance the chemicals at least one week before you plan to close the pool. On average, calcium hardness should be around 200 PPM and alkaline levels between 80 and 120 PPM depending on your pool. You don’t have to lower the water or drain the pipes if you keep the pool open, as the Orlando weather rarely drops below freezing in the winter.
3. Monitor water levels.
Due to evaporation, you may need to add water. As rainfall decreases and chilly days become more common, the water in your pool will begin to evaporate. Don’t be surprised if your water level drops one or two inches per week. To prevent your pool’s water level from getting too low, monitor it and add water as needed.
4. Remove the pool accessories.
Remove any pool toys from the water, and detach the ladders and handrails if you plan to use a pool cover. Take out anything that could collect rainwater, such as inflatable loungers and other pool floats. These items not only get in the way of a pool cover but also create breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other bugs into October.
5. Use a swimming pool cover.
Covering the pool, even if you don’t plan to perform any further winterizing steps, reduces your cleaning, chemical and filtering chores. The cover should not have large gaps or holes where debris could enter the pool. A mesh-type cover protects the pool from dirt, debris and leaves and prevents accidental drowning and submersion if someone steps onto the covered surface. You may also consider a Solar blanket. These will help keep you water temperature up.