As anybody in New England can tell you, we don’t always have the best weather for swimming in a pool. While the end of may through September typically gives us quality pool time, you never know when the next blizzard is going to hit. When the temperatures drop, it’s vital that your inground pool is prepared. Once you’ve collected all your winterizing pool supplies in MA, it’s time to begin the process of closing your pool for the season. Here’s a breakdown on how to close your inground pool.
1. Collection
Gather your winterizing pool supplies in MA. This includes your pool cover, plugs for the skimmer, and winterizing chemicals.
2. Filter
The next step is backwashing the filter. This process will vary depending on the kind of filter you have so be sure to know what type of filter you have. Follow the instructions for backwashing that specific type of filter system.
3. Filter Pump
Once you’ve cleaned the filter, disconnect the filter from the pump. You should now make the sure the pump is completely emptied of water to avoid cracking it during the winter. If your pool also has a heater, make sure that is drained of water as well. This can be done with an air compressor.
4. Removal
The next step is removing what doesn’t need to stay in your pool during the winter. This includes any jet fittings and skimmer baskets.
5. Blow Out
Next, blow out all the water from the return jet pipes. Do this using an air compressor. By hooking up the air compressor to the return lines, you can pump all the water out until bubbles are blowing at full force. Once the bubbles are pumping strong enough, you can put a plug in the hole to keep any water from getting in. Repeat this step with the skimmer pipes, and then repeat again for the main drain line if applicable.
6. Pool Supplies
Remove any pool supplies in MA that aren’t meant to stay in the pool. This includes toys, thermometers, ladders, etc.
7. Chemicals
For any granular winterizing chemicals, be sure to mix them in a bucket first to ensure they dissolve. Otherwise, they will sit on your pool liner all winter and either stain or damage it. Once those have been dissolved and mixed into the pool water, mix any liquid winterizing chemicals directly into the pool water.
8. Water Level
For inground pools, the only reason you should lower your water level for the winter is if you have tile at the water level. The tiles will crack when the water freezes. However, if you don’t have tile, leave the water as is.
9. Cover
Place the pool cover across your pool and secure it in place.
There you have it, a quick rundown of how to prepare your inground pool for the offseason. Once you have your winterizing pool supplies in MA, follow the steps on this list. For any questions, contact Rogers Pool or visit them online!