As winter approaches with a gentle chill in the air, you may find yourself wondering, "Is pool season over, or can I push it a little longer?" You might have more time than you think.
Extending your swimming season is possible when the temperatures take a dip, but remember to adapt your maintenance routines (and get ready to embrace the cold plunge).
In short, yes, you can continue to use your pool during the winter months. Keeping your pool open during a mild winter is possible. It ultimately depends on your geography and maintenance routine. Pool equipment can freeze in a matter of hours, but if your climate remains above freezing, with proper pool maintenance you can leave it open year-round.
Winter Pool Maintenance Tips
- Temperature matters. Freezing temperatures can cause damage to your pool and its equipment, but fear not colder weather. If your region has consistently mild temperatures, you can keep your pool ready for use year-round. But, like, if you think you're going to take a few laps in your in-ground pool in Orchard Park while watching the Bills in the playoffs, think again. #gobills
- Keep your pool water chemistry balanced. Stay on top of pool maintenance tasks throughout the winter season. This prevents mid-winter algaecide and bacteria and algae growth. Check pool chemical levels using water samples. Use this insight to manage the pool shock and chlorine levels. If you have a saltwater pool, be sure to also check salt levels.
- Remove leaves and other debris. Remove pool toys, empty skimmer baskets, the pool pump basket, and the automatic pool cleaner debris bag. With proper seasonal maintenance, you can keep your pool from looking overrun with fall leaves.
- Perform regular maintenance to keep pool surfaces clean. Brush tile or the vinyl pool liner around the entire pool, including pool steps, pool floor, pool walls, diving board, and benches. Provide proper pool maintenance for unique features, like fountains, and remember to check the filter pressure for appropriate readings.
- Monitor the pool water level. Just like during the peak summer months, the system requires a minimum water level in order for the filtration system to work properly. Pool owners should plan to perform a visual inspection every week.
- Keep running the pool filter pump. Circulating water through the water pump 24/7 is essential to prevent freezing pipes. Stagnant water can lead to potential damage and costly repairs.
- Consider winter pool covers or an air pillow. Use a simple pool cover during the colder months to retain heat, minimize debris, and reduce evaporation. You don't need to keep the pool heater running all the time during the winter months; in fact, if you turn the temperature down while it's not in use, you'll save a lot of energy.
- Consult professionals. If you're uncertain about the cold temperatures in your area, check with a local pool professional. They'll be able to provide advice tailored to your geography and make recommendations to keep your pool water safe.
Are there added costs to winter maintenance?
"When it comes to pool maintenance, the costs can vary based on the size of the pool, damage extent, repair type and the season," shares Jimmie Meece, Brand President at America’s Swimming Pool Company. "Larger pools generally incur higher expenses during the winter months, with additional complexities arising from specific repair requirements and seasonal considerations. Understanding these elements is crucial for informed, budget-conscious decisions, ensuring optimal functionality and long-term enjoyment of your pool."
Is winter a good time for pool repairs?
Winter can be a suitable time for certain pool repairs. "Repairing your pool in different geographies has an effect on labor rates, material availability and climate demands," says Meece. "While [you may find that] Miami vendors offer competitive pricing, the unique challenges and different market conditions in New York can impact repair costs."
If you had any issues with your pool during the summer, consider hiring a professional to complete repairs in the cooler weather season. They can help with leak detection and repair with your pool plumbing, equipment replacement, structural issues, deck repairs, and lighting updates.
