How to Keep Your Pool and Spa Safe From Snow Damage

There’s nothing quite like cooling off in your backyard pool in July or sinking into your private hot tub in the middle of December. However, it’s no secret that both pools and spas require a bit of extra maintenance throughout the colder months.  In order to enjoy your spa in the winter, ensure that your pool is in top shape for seasons to come and save money in repairs later on, it’s important to prepare before the inclement weather arrives.

Pools

December is the perfect time to initiate cold-weather care for your pool to ensure its protection from the elements. The first step is to balance the water, clean the pool and lower the water levels. If you’re unsure about how to do so, we’ll do it for you!

Next, consider investing in a high quality, tight-fitting cover. Not only does a strong cover prevent debris from infiltrating the pool, it also allows for less evaporation which means that the water level and chemical composition of the pool remains unchanged. Depending on where you live and how cold it gets, your pool may require a winter cover anchored to your deck. Also keep in mind that uniquely shaped pools may require custom winter covers.

In addition to a pool cover, the right supplies are required to remove any water, snow or ice build-up on top of the cover. In most cases, a rake, broom or manual cover pump can sweep off any accumulation. However, there are automatic cover pumps on the market that will remove build-up as soon as it is detected.

It’s also important to periodically check your pool pumps and parts. If excess water in the equipment freezes, it can expand and crack your pipes. When in doubt, call a professional to check for you.

Spas

There are a few simple steps hot tub owners should take before soaking in the winter. Start by draining and cleaning the spa just as you would in warmer months. When you refill the tub, look for a “standard” mode, auto heater or freeze protection system to ensure that the water doesn’t freeze, expand and jam the pipes.

A hot tub’s jets function by blowing air into the water, which lowers the water temperature. So to spare both time and money, try to use the jets a bit less in the wintertime.

A quality cover is just as important for a hot tub as it is for a pool. Investing in a well-insulated cover and thermal blanket is paramount to maintaining high water temperatures throughout the colder months.

Be sure to monitor the water level often and add water when necessary. If the water level drops and the contents of the hot tub freeze, it could expand and damage the spa.

There are many precautions that must be taken to properly prepare your spa or pool for the winter months, but it doesn’t have to be complicated! Check out our services & maintenance offerings or submit a request today.