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How to prepare your swimming pool for winter

Published on 12 Jun 2023

Delve into the task of winterising your pool, a vital act that ensures that your aquatic retreat will once again be ready for joy and relaxation come next summer.

As the last echoes of laughter and splashes fade away, and the sun bids farewell to the balmy summer days, it’s important to remember the responsibility of protecting your cherished pool.

Your property inspiration

Are you longing for a home that combines stunning aesthetics, everyday functionality and a gorgeous swimming pool? Look no further than the captivating 'La Providence' family home, situated in the highly coveted Bowtie area of Plettenberg Bay. Tucked away in a peaceful cul de sac, this charming five-bedroom abode radiates the warmth of a French-Provincial ambience, enveloped by lush and flourishing gardens.

A glimpse of the breathtaking swimming pool reminds the viewer that as winter sets in, it’s time to transform your pool into a serene and inviting winter oasis.

“Pool enthusiasts choose to forego the conventional route of covering their pools and instead embrace solar heating,” explains Hein Pretorius, a property practitioner from Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty. “However, bubble-type covers and the convenience of automated retractable covers are becoming a more and more popular option.”

Maintain your swimming pool this winter

By following these 10 simple steps, you can ensure that your pool remains in top-notch condition, ready to welcome you back when the warmer days return.

Step 1: Balance the water chemistry

Maintain the perfect balance of your pool's water chemistry by testing and adjusting pH and sanitiser levels. This ensures a clean and healthy environment for your pool during the dormant season.

Step 2: Clean and remove debris

Thoroughly clean your pool, removing leaves, twigs, and any other debris that may have accumulated. A clean pool not only looks inviting but also prevents potential damage or staining.

Step 3: Brush and vacuum

Give your pool a gentle brush to remove any algae or buildup on the walls and floor. Follow up with a thorough vacuuming to ensure a sparkling clean pool before the winter sets in. Speaking of maintenance, people often ask how long their pool pump should run in winter. The answer is that your pump should run from four to six hours per day to keep your pool in tip-top shape. You will also need to keep backwashing your pool during winter. Try doing a backwash every second week, and if the water seems especially dirty, start doing it every week.

Step 4: Lower the water level

Treating your pool for winter involves lowering the water level to prevent freezing and potential damage. Aim to bring the water level below the skimmer line but ensure that the bottom of the pool is well-covered to protect the surface.

Step 5: Drain and protect pool equipment

Drain and winterise your pool equipment, such as pumps, filters, and heaters. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid any damage caused by cold temperatures.

Step 6: Cover the pool

Invest in a high-quality pool cover to protect your pool from debris and conserve heat. Whether you choose a classic bubble-type cover or an automated retractable cover, it adds an element of luxury while safeguarding your pool.

Step 7: Winterise plumbing lines

If you live in an area with freezing temperatures, it's crucial to winterise your plumbing lines. Use an air compressor to blow out the water from the lines, preventing them from bursting due to freezing.

Step 8: Maintain the pool cover

Regularly inspect and maintain your pool cover throughout the winter months. Remove any accumulated debris and ensure it remains securely fastened to provide maximum protection.

Step 9: Monitor pool chemistry

Even during winter, it's essential to monitor your pool's chemistry periodically. Test the water and make any necessary adjustments to keep it balanced and healthy. To keep your pool sparkling, it’s important to keep putting chlorine in during winter and maintaining optimum chlorine levels.

Step 10: Plan for spring opening

As the cold months pass, start planning for the joyous reopening of your pool in spring. Consider scheduling professional maintenance or cleaning services to ensure a seamless transition back to poolside bliss.

Your home should inspire you

By following these 10 easy steps, you can prepare your pool for a cosy winter retreat. Rest assured that when the warmer days arrive, you'll be ready to dive back in. The team at Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty is thrilled to be your guide as you embark on the exciting question of finding your dream home. Our portfolio showcases a remarkable array of stunning properties. Reach out to our dedicated team today and let us help you find your dream home.

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