Winterizing the Pool

The first rains have arrived in the Bay Area, and we’re getting many calls from customers wondering what they need to do to winterize the pool.  Here’s a short list to help you out:

1. Turn off the heater and gas valve – many people forget to turn the gas valve off, which can be hazardous.
2. Your filter still needs to run but not as many hours in the summer.  Depending on the size of your pool and whether you have a lot of debris going into it still, running your pool 4-6 hours a day is optimal.
3. Remove solar blankets – leaving this on year round can shorten the life of a solar blanket.  These blankets are not designed for cold temperatures and the material will start disintegrate .  When it does that it gets into your equipment and can cause damage.
4. If you have an automatic cover and you are using it, be sure to put the cover pump out now.  Too much water on a cover from the rains will weigh it down and can damage the cover.  Also, it’s impossible to open a cover with a lot of water on it.
5. Continue to have your water checked and balanced at least every other week.  Failure to do this can cause your pool walls and equipment to become damaged.
6. Turn your solar off and have the panels drained to prevent the water freezing in them and possibly cracking or damaging the panels.
7. Considering hiring professionals, like The Pool Doctor, to come and open and clean your DE filter if you have one.

Hopefully this will help you as you begin the process of winterizing the pool.  The Pool Doctor can be reached at 510-223-7537.