Swimming Pool Winterisation
To begin to winterize the swimming pool, make sure that the pool water is clean. Remove any leaves, bugs, as you would normally. A good time to begin the winterizing process is in the Autumn, before the leaves have a chance to fall into the pool. Proper winterizing is done using a winter type cover. There is little point doing anything if you do not have a cover.
If you do not have a winter cover, maintain the swimming pool as normal.
A chemical winterizing chemical is essential. A mixture of winter chlorine, winter alkalizer, and winter powder will insure that your pool stays clean over the winter and is ready for use in the late spring when the warmer weather arrives. Many manufacturers supply ready-made, winterizing kits that contain the chemicals mentioned above. Each manufacturer has different directions so make sure you follow the exact directions on your winterizing kit. Essentially, these chemicals will put extremely high levels of chlorine, alkaline, and algaecide in the water to prepare for the winter months ahead. Some of these chemicals mandate that the pool filter be turned on while the chemicals are added.
In very harsh climates, steps will have to be taken to protect the pool plumbing from freeze damage.
The last item needed for a proper winterizing is a pool cover. However, before stretching the cover across the pool, you should put a car or lorry inner-tube in the pool. The float will support the centre of the cover and prevent rainwater from settling on the cover.
Stretch the cover across the pool and over the float using two or three volunteers for help. Once in place, make sure it is well secured, so that it will not blow off during storms or high winds. On reopening the pool, check chlorine and pH levels and you wil have a spakling swimming pool ready for the summer.
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