Professional pool closing services in Kitchener often cost between $300 and $600 per season, while repairs from winter damage can easily climb into the thousands. Also, as per Agni, winterizing an in-ground pool averages $300, and a proper winter cover can cost up to $2,550. So, if you compare the cost of replacing cracked plumbing, damaged pumps, or a torn liner after a harsh Kitchener winter, you can see why skipping this step can be a bad decision.
Regardless of whether you are a contractor offering pool installation in Kitchener or a homeowner, winterizing is a smart investment. When it’s done right, it helps keep your pool safe from freezing temperatures, enhances its life, and ensures a smooth experience. However, if it’s not done or done wrong, it will be costly later. So, on that note, let's understand the simple steps to protect your pool through the cold months, along with saving costs months with this blog.
Simple and Effective Steps To Winterize Your Pool
Let's take a closer look at these:
Step 1: Clean the Pool Thoroughly
Before shutting down, clear out all leaves, dirt, and debris. Use a brush or scrubber on the walls and vacuum the floor, as this will help to leave the pool in the best condition possible and keep algae from growing beneath the cover.
Step 2: Balance the Water Chemistry
First, test and balance pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness. The appropriate balance will help protect your pool surfaces and equipment from possible corrosion or scaling.
- pH should be between 7.2 and 7.6
- Alkalinity between 80 and 120 ppm
- Calcium hardness between 180 and 220 ppm
Add a winterize kit, which often contains algaecide and shock treatment.
Step 3: Lower the Water Level
For in-ground pools, lower the water level below the skimmer opening. This ultimately prevents freeze damage to skimmers and plumbing. If you have a Vinyl liner, try not to drain too much, as it will lead the liner to shrink.
Step 4: Drain and Protect Equipment
Be sure to completely drain pool pumps, filters, heaters, and chlorinators. Any remaining water can freeze and break these components. Store smaller equipment indoors, if possible.
With any underground plumbing lines, you can blow out any water with an air compressor, and seal them with winterizing plugs.
Step 5: Cover the Pool
A high-quality winter pool cover prevents debris and protects against algae growth by keeping sunlight off the water. Be sure it is secured and tight to minimize the possibility of wind lifting it.
Mesh covers allow rain and snow to drain through each.
Solid covers provide the best debris protection but may need a pump to remove the extra water build-up.
Step 6: Check Periodically Over Winter
Remember to check the pool every week to ensure the cover is intact and damage-free. Remove extra snow build-up to avoid strain on the cover.
Wrap It Up
Winterizing your pool is not just a seasonal task. Rather, it is an investment in the long-term health of the pool. If you choose to do it yourself or hire a professional, by following the right steps now, you will save time and money, along with a headache when summer comes around again.
If you are thinking of pool installation in Kitchener, find an experienced team that not only builds beautiful pools but also works with you to make sure that you are completing the correct maintenance and seasonal steps to take care of your pool.
Ready to install or upgrade your pool?
Canadian PoolScapes has been providing professional pool installations in Kitchener and nearby areas, and we also provide professional seasonal care. Protect your investment and rest easy knowing your pool is in good hands.
Visit Canadian PoolScapes to get started.
Comments