Winter Worries for the Pool

While it seems like summer is worlds away, we still need to be thinking about our swimming pool. There are many things the winter season can do to affect our pools. We need to be on guard and take a few extra precautions to protect it.

I Feel the Tension

If you have a safety cover on your pool, we want to make sure that it is on securely. Safety covers need to be tight, but not so tight that there is no give. It should have a slight dip in the middle, but not enough to come in contact with the water. The springs should be about half-way compressed for the correct tension. If water is pooling on the cover, the straps are not tight enough. Ensure that all vinyl spring covers are in place as to prevent scratching to decking.
Cover All Bases

It is not recommended to use automatic covers or tarps as pool covers in the winter. Automatic pool covers and tarps are not designed for safety. Also, difficult winter weather can cause damage to these types of cover by either puncturing the cover or in the case of a tarp, blowing it off the pool and becoming an airborne hazard. With automatic covers, use is not intended for long periods of time such as a winter season and the elements can degrade it rather quickly under such sustained circumstances. A properly installed safety cover is really your best option.

When !#$& Freezes Over

What happens if the pool or cover freezes? Under the weight of ice (or heavy snow), your pool cover can become compromised. The weight can cause it to sag, which if you have a cover pump can unknowingly drain your pool. Ice can be jagged or sharp which can tear or wear your pool cover. If your water level in the pool has increased due to rain and/or snow since the pool was closed, you want to make sure it is below the tile line. If water gets behind the tile and then freezes, it can cause damage to your tile band.
Coming out of Hibernation

Winter can be a tough season on all of us, including our swimming pools. You want to make sure that your pool is ready to bear the brunt of it. These few checks and balances can ensure that your pool is ready for opening. As always, we perform these checks with our winter watch service. Interested in enrolling, contact us today!