In the midwestern states, winterizing a swimming pool is seen as necessary in the wake of freezing temperatures, as well as the ice and snow. With that being the case, you might be wondering if winterizing your pool is really necessary in Southern California, where the temperatures do not typically dip quite as low. In fact, you might be thinking of leaving your pool open all year round.
Still, there are some benefits from closing your pool during the winter months, even if your temperature does not always drop down to the point of snow and ice. Working with a Riverside pool service, you can easily have your pool closed for the winter months. Here are six reasons to winterize your swimming pool, even if you are currently living in Southern California.
Temperatures Can Plunge at Night
Even though daytime temperatures in Southern California can remain high during the day, desert temperatures can drop dramatically. If you live in an area where night temperatures can get low, especially during the winter months, then winterizing your pool is wise.
If the temperatures unexpectedly plunge to 32 degrees or below, then you risk the water in your pool’s pipes freezing. However, if the temperature dips before you close your pool, then run the pool pump for 24 hours, to keep the water running and thus avoid the damage from freezing water in the pipes.
Deep Cleaning for Your Pool
During the typical pool season, part of your pool maintenance might include cleaning the pool but there is only so much cleaning that you can do while the water is still in your swimming pool. Closing your pool can allow for a deep cleaning and draining of your pool. Therefore, you can take care of any buildup and make sure your pool stays sparkling.
Additionally, that deep cleaning can help to make sure that any potential buildup in your water system can also be addressed before it becomes a problem. You also can check any pool equipment, such as the ladders, diving boards, and other structures for potential issues. That can give you a list of things to replace or repair in the spring, once the pool is ready to be reopened.
Preventative Maintenance
When your pool is being closed and drained, this is also a chance for you to have it checked for any damage, including loose tiles or lining damage. Often, these things might be missed if you keep your pool open all year round. However, once they are identified, then working with your pool cleaning and maintenance service, you can have them repaired or addressed.
Essentially, closing your pool could end up saving you a lot down the road because you can fix problems while they are small or easier to address.
Opportunity to Treat Your Pool
As part of closing any pool, your Riverside pool service is going to drain the water. By treating your pool’s water with specific chemicals, you can avoid having an algae bloom while your pool is closed and covered. Experts suggest that you add a phosphate remover treatment and stain prevention product to make sure that while your pool is closed, you don’t end up with bigger issues to address come spring.
Winterizing the Water System
Another benefit of winterizing your pool is that you can also winterize your water system. Doing so can protect your pipes from expansion and contraction that could lead to leaks or pipes breaking in the spring. Additionally, your system can be checked to make sure that there are not any issues before the system is winterized by removing all the water and using anti-freeze. The equipment should also be protected to minimize the risk of water getting inside while the pool is closed.
Keeps the Pool Chemically Balanced
When you winterize your pool, working with a pool professional is key to make sure that all the chemicals are balanced correctly. By making sure your chemicals are balanced properly, your cover is in good shape, the water system is protected, and your regular pool cleaning is done, then you will be able to keep your pool protected during the colder seasons of the year.
If you are unsure about whether your pool should be closed and what your pool needs in terms of service, then contact our team today. We work with pool owners in the SoCal area, including Riverside, to help them clean and maintain their pools throughout the year.
Mirage Pool Services specializes in pool maintenance, equipment repairs and replacement, chlorine washes, draining pools and pool startups in the Moreno Valley and Riverside, California areas.