How to Winterize a Salt Water Pool
Many pool owners are making the switch to saltwater pools, thanks to the easier maintenance and fewer harsh chemicals needed. In light of saltwater pools becoming the start of the backyard recreational industry, let’s go over how to winterize a salt water pool so you can give pool owners the product knowledge they need to maintain their swimming pools all winter long.
Checking Chemical Balances
As with any pool, checking the chemical balances is the first step in winterizing a saltwater pool. As always, the pH level should be between 7.2 and 7.8. The total alkalinity should read between 80 and 120 ppm and the calcium hardness needs to be between 200 and 400 ppm. Pool owners should test their swimming pool at least one week before they intend to close it to ensure the levels are balanced, as well as have the opportunity to adjust the levels and allow the pool water to circulate.Cleaning the Pool
The saltwater pool should be cleaned one final time before being closed for the season. This will help create an easier opening in the spring as contaminants won’t be around to cause issues like staining or algae. Pool owners should also allow their filters to run a bit longer in the time between the cleaning and the closing to help keep the pool as clean as possible.Storing Equipment
Next up, is storing the pool equipment. This includes features like pool toys, slides, diving boards, and ladders that would interfere with a pool cover. While some equipment may be installed in a way that wouldn’t cause damage to a winter safety cover, most will need to be stored in a safe place through the cooler months to prevent wear and tear on both the attached accessories and the saltwater pool itself.Winterizing the Salt Chlorine Generator
In order to properly store a salt chlorine generator, pool owners should begin by shutting the power off to all pool equipment circuits and disconnecting the generator from the pool lines. Then, the salt chlorine generator should be inspected for buildup and cleaned with a high-pressure hose.Tips and Tricks
A few things to keep in mind when you explain to pool owners how to winterize a saltwater pool:- Never add additional salt to the pool
- Never use metal to scrape buildup from the salt chlorine generator
- Always inspect the cover for holes or signs of damage
- Drain and inspect the rest of the pool equipment such as the pump, filter, and heater
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