8 Reasons Why You Need to Maintain Your Pool During Winter

Here are our winter pool maintenance tips:

Regularly clean the pool:

If you aren’t using a pool cover, it’s important that you remove debris, such as leaves and twigs, from the pool surface and ensure that you empty the skimmer baskets regularly. This prevents organic matter, such as leaves from decomposing and negatively impacting water quality or staining the pool.

Maintain proper water chemistry:

Even during winter, it’s important to monitor and balance the pool’s water chemistry. Test the water regularly and adjust the pH, alkalinity, and sanitiser levels as necessary. This helps prevent algae growth and keeps the water clear and balanced within the recommended range. Adjust the chemical levels as needed using appropriate pool chemicals such as those included in our Winter Maintenance Pack.

Continue to run the pool filter and pump during Winter!

It’s a common myth that you don’t need to run the pool pump as much in Winter. Although you may not be swimming as much as you do in Summer, the water still needs to circulate in order to remain at a healthy, balanced level. To save on energy, you can turn down the settings, however, it’s important that the entire body of water is circulated through the filter at least once per day.  This helps circulate the water, prevent stagnation, remove debris, and maintain proper filtration of your pool water.

Adjust the water & chlorine levels:

Monitor the water level in your pool and ensure it remains at the appropriate level. Heavy rainfall during winter can dilute chlorine.  Another common myth we often hear during Winter is a reduced need for Chlorine.  This is not the case. Whilst the bather load is reduced during Winter due to less time in the pool, it’s still essential to maintain a residual level of sanitiser. Test the water regularly and adjust the chlorine levels accordingly. You can use a slow-release or floating chlorinator to ensure a steady supply of chlorine easily and effectively during the cooler months. Your local Poolwerx offers complimentary pool water testing with all Chlorine purchases.

Check and clean the pool filter:

Even though you may not be swimming, it’s still important to maintain your water circulation as it helps to avoid algae growth and other pool problems. Keep your pool filtration system running for a shorter duration but consistently throughout winter. Aim for around 4-6 hours per day. This helps remove debris and maintains the circulation of your pool’s water. We also recommend that you inspect and clean equipment when necessary to ensure optimal filtration and prevent the buildup of debris and contaminants in your pool during Winter.

Should you cover the pool in Winter?

In short, yes. To maintain the temperature of the pool, consider using a pool cover during winter to keep the heat in and keep debris out. This will also reduce cleaning time and effort while the pool isn’t in use.

Monitor for algae growth:

Keep an eye out for any signs of algae growth during Winter. Insufficient water circulation due to turning down the settings on pool equipment can lead to black-spot algae or result in green or cloudy water. If algae growth appears, take appropriate measures to address the issue, such as using algaecides or increasing the sanitiser levels. If you’re looking for an easy winter pool solution, contact your local Poolwerx team or purchase our pre-made winter maintenance packs.

Seek professional assistance:

If you’re unsure about winter pool care or need help with pool maintenance, consider consulting your local Poolwerx professional pool service provider. Our experienced pool maintenance teams can help you install a pool heater, as well as offer helpful tips and guidance on how to maintain your pool in Winter.