Buying a swimming pool is a big investment, so it’s important to maintain it during the year so it will last. This is especially true during the cold, harsh winter months. There are many ways you can protect your investment and ensure your pool can still be enjoyed once the weather warms up.
1. Keep the Pool Cover On
A pool cover can help keep your pool warm and prevent the heat from escaping. It’s like covering a pot of water, which warms it up faster and prevents the heat from going out. Any heat from the sun or your pool heater will stay locked in the water longer. This can also reduce your heating costs.
2. Run the Pool Heater to Stay Above Freezing Temps
The average amount of time it will take you to run your pool heater will depend on your location and the temperature. But, as long as you can run it for enough time to keep the water above freezing, you’re good to go. Running your heater while you’re sleeping is typically the most cost-effective way to keep your pool warm because that is when temperatures are at their lowest.
3. Keep the Filter Pump Running
To keep your pipes from freezing over, keep your filter pump running during freezing temperatures. Running it will do a few things that can make a huge difference in how well your pipes hold up during the cold weather. It will keep water flowing and moving so that it can’t freeze. Running the pump will also help maintain the water temperature. Lastly, if you heat your pool, it will help to circulate the heated water throughout it.
4. Turn All Valves to “Open” or “Filter”
When your pool is running, the valves in your system will usually be set to open or filter mode. However, there may be a few cases where they are partially closed or changed. During the winter, it’s important to keep all of your valves open to allow water to circulate. Doing so will help keep the water warm and prevent it from freezing.
5. Aim Jets Toward the Surface of the Water
Changing the angle of your swimming pool jets can affect how well your pool heater is working. Although it won’t make it run faster, it can affect how it warms the water. When containers of water freeze, they start from the surface to the bottom. Your pool works the same way when it freezes.
The angle of your pool jets can help prevent surface ice from forming. By aiming the jets upwards, you’re able to send a steady blast of heat toward the water’s surface.
6. Maintain Water Levels
Winter is the most important time to maintain your water level. High or low water levels can cause various issues, such as equipment damage and circulation issues. The only way to get your water level back to a level that’s below the “skimming” level is by winterizing and closing it for the season.
If your pool is still open, make sure that the water line is at the mid-skimming level. This will allow the water to flow freely throughout the system, which should help maintain a stable water temperature.