The thought of swimming in sub-zero temperatures isn’t the most appealing, so it’s only natural that during the winter months, you may not be using your pool as much. However, this doesn’t mean that you can let up on maintenance work; in fact, your pool may require even more care during periods of disuse and cold weather.

But why does winter pool maintenance matter? And how do you maintain your pool during the winter? Luckily, the team here at Cox Pools is here to help with this comprehensive guide to winter pool care.

How does winter weather affect pools?

When the temperature dips below sub-zero levels, this can cause certain components of your pool to freeze completely. If water is left in your pipework or equipment, this can expand upon freezing and cause cracks and damage to your pool’s plumbing. 

Do I need pool maintenance in winter?

If it wasn’t already clear then yes, you do still need pool maintenance throughout the winter for several reasons:

• Winterizing your pool can protect it from the damage caused by freezing temperatures to improve its longevity.
• If your pool is left alone over the winter, minor issues can go undetected and quickly grow into costly damage.
• You can have peace of mind that your pool will always be safe, clean, and in the best possible hands.
• When the start of swim season rolls around, you won’t have to spend ages preparing your pool for reopening – instead, you should be able to dive straight in.

When should you close your pool in Alabama?

While there’s no set date for when you should close your pool, most experts recommend closing it when the temperature consistently dips below 65°F. This is because algae growth is less likely at these temperatures. 

Here in Alabama, we’re lucky enough to experience fairly mild winters, meaning that the swim season typically lasts a little longer than other regions of the US, such as the Northeastern and Midwestern states. On average, the temperature plummets to below 65°F in November and begins to rise again in March; however, this can vary depending on the location.

Our 5 top tips for winter pool care

The process of preparing your pool for the colder temperature is known as winterization. Although this can be a lengthy task, by following these simple tips you can prevent weather damage and ensure a smooth reopening in the spring. 

• Check and adjust water chemistry: Before you close your pool for winter, you should test the pH and water chemistry to ensure all chemicals are within standard ranges; if not, your pool might experience staining, algae growth and cloudy water. If your pool water doesn’t fall within the required levels, you may need to add extra chemicals, such as shock treatment and algaecide. If you’re unsure, consult a trusted pool professional who can advise you on the best course of action. 

• Clean the pool: During the off-season, you should still keep up a regular pool cleaning routine, including skimming the water for debris, brushing the floor and sides, and vacuuming the surfaces. Not only does this keep your pool looking great, but it also ensures you won’t be greeted by a dirty and algae-infested pool in the spring. 

• Invest in a winter pool cover: Winter weather often brings heavy winds, rain and snow, meaning leaves and other contaminants are more likely to infiltrate your pool and disrupt the delicate balance of the pool water. A winter pool cover will stop any debris from collecting in your pool and clogging the filter. Furthermore, a high-quality pool cover will block sunlight to prevent evaporation and deter algae growth. 

• Drain and store equipment: Before you close your pool for winter, you should always remove and drain any pool equipment – such as the heater, pump, and filter – to stop ice from forming inside. This equipment should then be stored in a dry, indoor space. It’s also a good idea to lower the water level of your pool to around six inches below the skimmer to prevent freezing damage to the plumbing system. 

• Consult a pool professional: If you want to ensure your pool stays in the best possible condition over the winter, consider employing a trusted pool professional like Cox Pools. By scheduling regular winter maintenance, you can address potential issues before they escalate and ensure your pool reopening is hassle-free.

With the help of the experienced team at Cox Pools, you can ensure your pool remains in top condition all year round. For the last 65+ years, we’ve been offering a wide range of pool maintenance services to customers throughout the Gulf Coast region, including Orange Beach and Dothan in Alabama.

As a member of the prestigious Master Pools Guild, you can be sure we only offer exceptional service at all times – get in touch with us today to schedule your winter pool maintenance.