Just because you’ve closed down your pool for the season doesn’t mean you should leave it all alone. There are plenty of maintenance steps you can take in the fall and winter to prepare your pool for the coming year. In this multi-part guide, we will go over fall pool maintenance tips to keep your swimming pool in tip top shape even when it’s not in use.
Cover Your Pool
If you have a pool cover, now is a good time to put it on. As the leaves start to fall from the trees, your pool is likely to collect an excessive amount of debris in a short period of time. If you do not have a pool cover yet, now is a great time to invest in one. Not only will it cut down on your maintenance as a whole, but it will extend the lifetime of your filters and other pool equipment.
Don’t forget to inspect your pool cover before you put it on. Holes, rips, tears, and issues with the securing mechanisms on your pool cover may negate the use of the cover entirely. If you need to invest in a new pool cover or pool cover repair, doing so early on will save you work in the future.
Skim Your Pool
Pool skimming may seem like a hassle when you aren’t actively using your swimming pool, but it is something you can quickly and easily do in the fall. Using a pool cover will reduce the need to skim, but it may not eliminate it completely. Remove surface debris in your pool on a regular basis before it sinks to the bottom. Empty out your pump basket and skimmer box as well so your pool filters can do a lot of the work for you.
Clean Your Pool Filter
This is a crucial time to clean out your pool filter, right before the winter months hit. There are several different mediums that can be used in a pool filter: cartridge filters, sand, and diatomaceous earth (DE). The cleaning process for your filter will depend on the type of medium you use. Ask your pool installation experts about your options so you can find the best solution for your swimming pool.
Service Your Pool Heater
If you have a pool heater, you may be able to use your swimming pool longer in the year than most other people. Even if you plan to close down the pool in early fall, you should have your pool heater inspected to ensure it is ready to go for the next season. Pool heaters, much like home heaters, should be inspected and maintained at least once a year to make sure they last as long as possible.
