Well, by now your pool is probably closed for the season, but please “DON’T FORGET ABOUT THE POOL.”
During the cold Winter months, your pool requires a minimum amount of maintenance. This will prolong the life of your pool cover, as well as help in having less issues when in the Spring you schedule your pool opening. By following these simple tips you can avoid problems that could other wise arise.
Above Ground Pool Winter Maintenance
You will want to occasionally check the cover cable for tightness. If this is loose the cover could fall into the pool.
Check your air pillow, if it is starting to go flat, get another pillow, place under the cover and inflate. The air pillow is there to KEEP POOL WALLS from SPLITTING as the water freezes and expands…NOT TO KEEP WATER OFF THE COVER!
A few times over the Winter you may need to pump water off the cover, the excess weight of the water as well as any leaves or debris can cause unnecessary stress on the cover which may cause the cover to rip or fall into the pool.
Check water level a least every month as a leak may cause substantial water loss. If a drop in the water level is noticed, keep refilling as needed until a leak detection may be performed.
IN-Ground Pool Winter Maintenance
Solid Bag Cover
Replace any broken water tubes as soon as possible. It is recommended to have at least 5 extra bags just in case. Having the correct number of water bags in good condition is important, as they hold the cover in place as well as keep the wind from blowing it off the pool. IT IS NOT RECOMMENDED to use cinder blocks, bricks or other heavy objects that could damage the pool if the cover should fall into the pool.
Several times during the Winter, the water that has accumulated on the cover should be pumped off. Also removal of leaves and debris will need to be done. Excess weight may cause unnecessary stress on the cover causing it to fall into the pool.
Check water level a least every month as a leak may cause substantial water loss. If a drop in the water level is noticed, keep refilling as needed until a leak detection may be performed.
1. Check the tightness of springs, these may need adjustment periodically, especially the first few seasons.
2. Water level in the pool should be kept at or below the skimmers when covered. Water level should NEVER be 18″ or more below the top of the pool. Should the water level drop below 18″ the cover could stretch to far causing the anchors to pull from deck or ripping the cover. CHECK WATER LEVEL OFTEN AND ADD OR REMOVE WATER AS NEEDED. If there is a noticeable water level drop (having to add water frequently) a leak detection should be performed.
3. Remember Mesh Covers allow rain and sunlight into pool. Most pools with mesh covers will remain clear until early May, depending on weather. Opening the pool early will prevent “swamp” effect which occurs during the warmer temperatures.
1. Check the tightness of springs, these may need adjustment periodically, especially the first few seasons.
2. Water level in the pool should be kept at or below the skimmers when covered. Water level should NEVER be 18″ or more below the top of the pool. Should the water level drop below 18″ the cover could stretch to far causing the anchors to pull from deck or ripping the cover. CHECK WATER LEVEL OFTEN AND ADD OR REMOVE WATER AS NEEDED. If there is a noticeable water level drop (having to add water frequently) a leak detection should be performed.
3. Cover draining even with a drain panel will need to be done periodically. Some water will collect on the cover, this is normal. It doesn’t mean tighten the straps, as if you happen to OVER-TIGHTEN, you will void your warranty.
4. To ensure that the mesh panel is draining properly, keep cover clear of leaves and debris. If you live in a wooded area, this is very important. If the panel is covered, excess water and weight may build causing stress on the straps, sprins and hardware, resulting in damage to the cover which will void the warranty.
By following and performing these simple tips, the life of your cover will be extended and you will have fewer problems in the spring.
