Common Winter Pool Problems (And How to Avoid Them)
Between endless holiday gatherings, holiday shopping, and other ongoing obligations, the winter season can definitely be hectic. However, that doesn’t mean your pool can fall to the backburner. Every season presents some challenges and hiccups when it comes to maintenance and keeping your pool functioning and in tip-top shape. Winter is no exception. We’ve compiled a few of the common winter pool problems we tend to see and some steps you can take to avoid them.
Not properly securing your winter pool cover
Pool covers that are not secured and tightly wrapped over the pool can easily blow off during the winter months. That makes them less effective against winter winds and weather and can allow more dirt and debris in your pool, which creates a hassle come springtime.
What to do:
- Make sure the pool cover is tightly secured with a cable and winch to begin with
- In addition to the cable and winch, you can use milk jugs, wall bags, and cover clips to help keep your cover taut and smooth throughout the winter.
- Check it regularly throughout the season. If you notice your cover slipping or blowing around, simply pull to readjust and re-secure it down.
Water & debris collecting in the center of your cover
If you’re not careful, leaves, water, snow, and other debris can easily pile up on your pool cover throughout the winter season. This can cause damage to the cover and make it less effective. Excess water can also freeze and cause big issues. In general, water and debris on your cover can create a big mess to deal with come spring.
What to do:
- Remove debris and clear the cover frequently. Rakes, hoses, and wet vacs are usually your best tools to keep your pool cover clean.
- Keep an eye on the weather so you can plan ahead for snow and windy days.
- Use a winter air pillow. Pool pillows protect your pool from expanding ice and create a more even weight distribution so the water doesn’t pool in the center and damage your liner.
Algae build-up
Not keeping up with your above ground pool during the winter can cause issues with algae, which can lead to staining and discoloration and other damage to your pool liner and accessories.
What to do:
- Keep up with winter pool maintenance tasks. Setting alerts or using a pool app to keep track can be helpful — especially during the off-season when your pool isn’t necessarily top of mind.
- Check your water chemistry regularly. This will help keep things in check so you can avoid nasty surprises when the weather warms up.
- Keep your cover tight, as noted above, to prevent more dirt and debris from getting into your pool.
Not properly winterizing your pool
While this isn’t really a “pool issue” and more human error, it’s important to note here. Closing your pool properly is key to preventing major issues during the off-season and ensuring a quick and efficient pool open come spring. Unfortunately, many pool owners try and rush through the process or don’t follow through, leading to damage to their pool liner, pump and filter system, and increased algae and bacteria growth. By closing your above ground pool properly, you can avoid a lot of the issues noted above.
What to do:
- Be sure to check out our guide for winterizing your above ground pool to get you on the right track.
- Take your time on the closing process. Spending more time now to do it right will save you headaches, time, and money when it’s time to open your pool in the spring.
- Follow all instructions and guidelines outlined by the manufacturer. This will ensure proper winterization, storage, and extend the life of your pool products and accessories.
- Close your pool when the temperature remains consistently below 65 degrees Fahrenheit for best results.
- Work with a professional if you’re unsure how to properly close your pool or maintain it during the winter months.
What’s next?
These tips will put you well on your way to a smooth and issue-free winter season for your swimming pool. If you’re in need of a solid winter pool cover, winter chemicals, and other pool supplies to set you up for the summer season, be sure to check out the latest products and deals from LinerWorld (while supplies last)!
Shop LinerWorld Winter Pool Products Now!
- In-ground Winter Pool Cover
- Above Ground Winter Pool Cover
- Winter Pool Air Pillow
- Swimming Pool Winterizing Kit
Also, don’t miss these other pool resources…
Don’t Make These Common Winter Pool Closing Mistakes
Handy Tips For Dealing with Leaves In Your Pool
Extend Your Outdoor Pool Season for Weeks (or Months) with these Tips
