Although you may have a winterized outdoor pool that is closed for the colder months, consistent pool maintenance is required to ensure that the site is fit for reopening in the coming season.
Ensure that the pool cover is in good condition
Ideally, your pool cover was pulled taut over the water surface upon installation earlier this year. The weight of snow and ice will cause the cover to sag, potentially placing the weight on the water below. As such, the water level for the pool beneath the cover is critical to a proper pool closure.
The cover is designed to have some give, but not to the point where the springs release from the grommets due to overstretch or straps becoming undone. A non-secure or loose cover becomes a sail in the wind, prone to gusts, which can compromise your cover by pulling and tearing it away from the remaining supports. Additionally, various debris will fall on the cover over time and if there are gaps in the cover, the debris will eventually fall into the pool, causing staining and requiring more aggressive cleaning in the spring. Providing maximum stability on the surface by keeping the fabric pulled tight will maintain the efficiency of the cover.
You shouldn’t have to do anything to your cover other than ensuring that it’s secure. If done correctly, the debris that collects on your pool cover throughout the winter season will blow off. Do not use shovels or any sharp items near the cover to try to remove debris. The cover was designed to bear the weight, not sharp objects. If you tear the cover or a hole is present, notify your pool service company or pool repair professionals to mend the cover. Small holes turn into larger ones and those make risky situations for curious children and pets.
You should check the anchoring routinely and tighten if necessary. Winds and weight on the cover can cause the straps to pull. Remember to secure these after cleaning the pool cover as well.
If winter maintenance is taking up too much time, consider outsourcing the work to a full-service pool company, who will be well-versed in the practices. You can also reach out to these professionals if you feel that your current pool cover requires too much work and don’t believe it’s the best type or not a winter safety cover. These experts know the range of products on the market and will be able to advise you accordingly. Pool covers have changed in the last 10 years with newer materials and styles, while maintaining affordability.
Caring for your winterized outdoor pool throughout the off season may be a lot of work, but it’s a necessary procedure. Make sure your staff are properly trained on the methods or think about passing the responsibility to pool maintenance services.
