Every homeowner with a pool should know what pool winterising is. That’s because, as the weather in Tasmania cools down, and the pool use drops off, it’s easy to leave it sitting there until the next summer. However, that’s where the problems usually start.
Pools that are left alone can turn green or cloudy. As such, they are also harder to bring back later. So, how do you actually prepare your pool for the colder months ahead? Pool winterising helps avoid that.
What does pool winterising mean?
Essentially, pool winterising is the process of preparing your pool for the colder months when it won’t be used as much.
It is different from closing a pool where the equipment is turned off so the system is left unused. That’s actually a common misconception. It’s believed that when winter comes, the solution is just to turn off all your pool equipment, and that all will be fine until next summer. Instead, what you get is a mouldy green pool.
Benefits of Pool Winterising
There are many benefits to winterising your pool in Hobart. By doing so, you help protect your pool and reduce potential issues while it is not being used as often.
Some of the key benefits of pool winterising include:
Preventing algae and bacteria growth
When the pool pump is running less often, algae and bacteria can build up more easily. Winterising helps keep the water cleaner throughout the colder months.
Keeping the water balanced
Proper water balance helps prevent the pool from becoming cloudy, green, or too harsh on the pool surface.
Protecting pool equipment
Winterising helps protect important pool equipment, including the pump, filter, pipes and chlorinator.
Big energy savings
During winter, pool equipment can often run at a reduced capacity, helping to save energy and potentially reduce electricity bills. This can be especially beneficial in Tasmania, where winter energy costs can already be high.
How to Winterise a Pool Without Overcomplicating It
The good news is that winterising your pool is not as complex as it sounds. It is really about keeping things consistent instead of shutting everything down.
When the weather cools down, you scale things back. The pool does not need as much filtration or as many chemicals. The system still needs to run, so the water needs to keep moving. Aside from that, there still needs to be enough chlorine to keep it clear.
Before easing things back, the pool should already be in good condition. If leaves or debris are left sitting in the water, they can cause problems once everything slows down.
Furthermore, water balance still matters through winter. It does not require constant attention, but prolonged neglect can lead to cloudy or green water.
When this happens, it becomes harder to fix later. Some people choose to use a cover to reduce the amount of water that enters the pool. It can make maintenance a bit easier, although it is not always necessary.
Why is Winter the Best Time to Update Pool Equipment?
This is something many pool owners miss. Winter is a time to get proper pool maintenance while things are quieter. With less use during the colder months, there is more flexibility to carry out upgrades.
It also makes it easier to carry out repairs without disrupting regular use. If your heating system has been inconsistent, now is the time to fix it.
The same goes for your chlorinator or pool lining if they are starting to wear out. Handling it now means you won’t be dealing with a last-minute rush later.
Aside from that, winter is also a slower period, which means better availability for contractors. As things move into spring and summer, demand increases, so it becomes harder to lock in a time.
Prepare Your Pool for Summer
Indeed, a little care during winter can save you from bigger problems later. This includes figuring out how to fix a green pool when it could have been prevented. During winter, there is less pressure, and you are not rushing to get it done.
As your heating and cooling specialists, Sackett Services helps pool owners across Hobart and Southern Tasmania prepare their systems for the seasons ahead. We can help with your heating and check that everything is running as it should. We also check and service your chlorinator or inspect your pool lining for wear. Get in touch with our team today!