Looking after your pool is a big investment, so it pays to avoid the mistakes that damage pool equipment. Many owners end up paying for expensive repairs in spring that a proper closing would have prevented. Here are the most common pool closing mistakes, and how to avoid them.
Common Pool Closing Mistakes to Avoid
A little care at closing time saves you from paying for repairs when you reopen. These are the mistakes we see most often:
Not Treating an Algae Problem
Many pools head into closing with some algae. Owners often try to deal with it by skimming and vacuuming alone, but that does not kill it, and the algae comes back under the cover.
Algae clings to surfaces and clogs the filter and skimmer, slowing the flow of water. To get rid of it, you have to kill it: brush the pool, then shock it and add algaecide once chlorine is back to 1 to 3 ppm.
Not Maintaining Alkalinity and pH
Very low pH damages pool equipment. Don’t skimp on chemicals, because acidic water slowly eats away at anything it touches, including:
- The pump and filter
- The heater
- Vinyl liners
- Solar covers
- Pool cleaning equipment
Low pH even damages rails, ladders and swimsuits. Keep pH between 7.2 and 7.8 and alkalinity between 80 and 120 ppm. If pH is too low, add soda ash; if it is too high, use a pH decreaser. See our guide on how to raise pool pH.
Not Treating Water That Is Too Hard or Too Soft
Calcium hardness is easy to forget, but it matters just as much as pH. The right level protects plaster, fiberglass and your filter system.
Keeping calcium in range helps your pool last longer and keeps the surface healthy. Aim for about 200 to 400 ppm for plaster and concrete pools and 150 to 250 ppm for vinyl and fiberglass. In hot weather, evaporation raises calcium levels, so check more often. Water that is too soft pulls calcium out of plaster, causing etching and permanent damage. Water that is too hard leaves scale on tile and equipment.
Not Cleaning the Pool Before Closing
Why clean a pool you are about to close? Because a few leaves and a little dirt left in the water turn into algae and tough stains over the winter. Skim, brush and vacuum thoroughly before you put the cover on, and you will thank yourself in spring.
Closing the Pool Too Early
Algae grows in warm water. Close the pool while the water is still warm and algae can spread under the cover. In Georgia, wait until the water stays below about 65 degrees. See when to close your pool in Georgia.
Leaving Water in the Equipment and Lines
When freezing temperatures hit, water left in the pump, filter, heater and pipes can freeze and crack them. Drain the equipment, blow out the lines and plug them, or add pool antifreeze. Our step-by-step guide to closing your pool covers how.
Conclusion
Most closing mistakes come down to skipping a step. Keep an eye on your water, follow each step, and your pool and equipment will last longer. If you would rather not risk it, our pool closing service handles every step for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should you run your pool pump?
Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. A common rule of thumb is about one hour of run time for every 10 degrees of air temperature, and around 8 to 12 hours a day in summer, or enough to turn over all the water.
How often should you clean the pump basket and skimmer?
At least once a week, and twice a week if there are lots of trees around the pool. Always check them after storms or high winds.
How often should you test pool water?
At least once a week, and twice a week in summer. Regular testing lets you correct chemical levels before small problems become big ones. Or let our water balancing team do it for you.
Need help with your pool in Hoschton or nearby? Call Clear Tec Pools at 678-679-0165 or book online.