While winter is typically a short lived word in south Louisiana, it can still have some influence over your home’s pool.  With that being said, this time of the year can still mean that your pool could use some special attention.  Here are a few things to keep in mind as the calendar turns and the temperature drops.

How Does the Temperature Affect Your Pool?

If there is going to be an extended period of cold weather, where the temperature drops below 30 degrees at night, it is essential that you keep your pump running.  With water constantly cycling through your pool, you won’t have to worry about any lines freezing.  Also, if you have a robotic pool cleaner, be sure to consult the manual to confirm at what temperature it should be removed from the water.  Running this equipment in low temperatures can damage the motor.

How do the Trees in My Yard Impact My Pool during the Winter?

If you have a lot of tree cover in your yard or around your pool it may be a good idea to cover your pool in the winter months.  Mesh covers have become popular options as they keep leaves and other debris out of the pool, while still allowing rainwater to pass through.  If your pool becomes inundated with leaves and they stay in all winter, your pool can become stained.

How do I Winterize my Pool?

If you choose to winterize your pool there are a few basic steps:

• Brush, shock, sanitize, and balance the pool. Add 10 ounces of algaecide for every 10,000 gallons of water.
• Remove any debris from the bottom of the pool.
• Let the pool chemicals filter for 24 hours.
• Drain water down as necessary.
• Remove all plugs and water from pump and filter systems.
• Securely cover the pool.

So while swimming season may be over, there are still a few things to take care of before spring rolls back around.  Maintaining your pool is an important task that can save you time, money, and headaches down the road.  The experts at Lucas Firmin Pools not only build beautiful pools, they also offer regular and seasonal pool maintenance.