Kelowna Pool Closing Service

The Best Way to Close Your Pool For the Winter 

Proper pool closings can’t be done in a single day. Trying to rush the process will result in overlooked tasks and subpar results. In order to get the best results, closings should be broken down into a multi-step approach that addresses everything from water chemistry, debris removal, internal systems, along with filters and equipment. 

Water Care: During the summer swim season, keeping water balanced is a top priority for pool owners but swim spaces are used less and less, this tends to fall to the back burner. Anyone can pick up a basic test kit from a pool supply store but these do not help you measure winterizing chemicals that help to prevent freezing. It is no secret that freezing temperatures will turn water into ice. It takes prolonged exposure to sub-zero temperatures to freeze an entire pool but the small amounts of water inside lines and sitting around pool equipment is quick to freeze over. Cold temperatures make plastic brittle, which can lead to cracking and when water freezes, it will expand up to 9% which can cause pipes to burst. In order to avoid damage it is a good idea to apply a specialized winter chemical treatment program and drop the water levels so they fall a few inches below the skimmer line. 

Debris Removal: During the fall months, leaves start falling and they will litter your water surfaces. Lighter items will float along surfaces, clogging up skimmer baskets while heavier items sink to the bottom of the pool. If organic debris is left to sit it will start to rot and break apart, becoming more difficult to remove and encourage algae growth. Fully removing debris before closing down for the winter helps to prevent algae growth from forming, spreading and taking over. A pool vacuum is not designed to reach into hard angles so these can be pockets for bacteria to take hold and thrive. Emptying skimmer baskets is also a good idea to prevent contaminants. 

Managing Pool Equipment: When going into the fall season, water condition is not your only concern. When managing an inground pool, it is important to make sure that return lines and plumbing are not at risk of damage from frozen water. This means winterizing drain plugs so water can’t seep into internal water systems. This is also the ideal time to remove detachable components so they can be dried and stored for the off-season. Inspecting circulation and filtration systems is also recommended when closing. Cartridge filters can be cleaned and replaced or removed. Sand filters should be emptied and sand replaced every several years so this is a good opportunity to check and plan for the upcoming spring season. 

When you want the best results for your pool closing service, just call a Puddle technician. Our team of highly trained technicians can service above ground pools and inground models for homes and commercial swim spaces across Kelowna.