After a summer of refreshing dips in the pool, it's now time to prepare the structure for the cooler weather. A proper shutdown ensures protection against the elements so your backyard retreat is ready for next spring and summer. Distinctive Swimming Pools in Washington Depot, CT, makes the process seamless and long-lasting. Litchfield County's premier pool repair company specializes in helping clients maintain their personal water getaways year-round. Armed with a few, helpful tips from their team, you can continue to enjoy your swimming pool for years to come.

5 Winter Prep Pool Tips

1. Complete Cleaning Service

The entire pool should be scrubbed to remove any contaminants, leaves, twigs, and other debris. A professional technician will have the tools and equipment to thoroughly clean every inch. The cleaning process also includes brushing and vacuuming the filter and other components. This is a crucial aspect of preventing algae growth over the winter.

2. Adjust Water Level

Because the pool will not experience heavy use during the cold seasons, the water level is typically lowered. Depending on the pool, the level is reduced to about four to six inches below the skimmer. You shouldn’t take out too much water, though, because it can expose the lining and put undue stress on the cover as water and debris collect on top of it.

3. Modify Chemical Levels

Another important step in the seasonal shutdown process is modifying certain chemical levels. For instance, chlorine should typically maintain at one to three parts per million (ppm) ratio to keep a consistent balance. This means there is one pound of chlorine for every one million pounds of water. The pool's pH level, which is the amount of acidity in the water, should also change to roughly 7.2 to 7.6.  Alkalinity is generally maintained between 180 to 220 ppm to keep pH levels balanced.

4. Store Accessories

All swimming pool accessories should be thoroughly washed and dried before storing them. Given the cooler and wetter weather, it's especially important to keep the items in a dry space to prevent rust and mildew.

5. Provide Protective Cover

After the pool has been serviced, the entire structure will need a protective tarp or cover. This ensures snow, ice, branches, and other debris won't fall in. Leaving the pool exposed can also alter the chemical levels and provide an entry point for bacteria and other contaminants.

Keep your pool in top condition when the weather turns cold. The team at Distinctive Swimming Pools is ready and available to provide quality maintenance services. Their pool cleaning staff will come right to your home to help you complete all of the tasks above. To schedule an appointment, call (860) 868-3622 today. Visit their website for information on a wide range of repair and renovation services.