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Top 5 Fall Maintenance Tips for Your Pool in the Midwest

As summer fades and the vibrant colors of autumn take over, it’s time to shift your focus from splashing in the pool to properly closing it down for the season. Fall maintenance is essential to ensure your pool remains in good condition and ready for next summer. Here are the top five fall maintenance tips for Midwest pool owners.

 

1. Clean and Balance the Water

Before you close up your pool for the winter, make sure to clean it thoroughly. Remove leaves, debris, and any organic material that could cause stains or algae growth. Once clean, test the water chemistry to ensure proper balance. Aim for the following levels:

  • pH: 7.2-7.8
  • Alkalinity: 80-120 ppm
  • Chlorine: 1-3 ppm

Properly balanced water helps prevent scaling and corrosion over the winter months.

2. Shock the Pool

After balancing your water, it’s a good idea to shock your pool. This process involves adding a significant dose of non-chlorine shock to eliminate any lingering bacteria or algae. Shocking your pool ensures that it remains clean and clear during the winter, reducing the likelihood of issues when you reopen it in the spring without bleaching your pool.

3. Winterize Equipment and Plumbing

Protecting your pool equipment from freezing temperatures is crucial. Start by disconnecting and draining all hoses, pumps, and filters. Make sure to take a look and clean filter components if needed. If you have a heater, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for winterization. Consider adding antifreeze to the plumbing lines to prevent any remaining water from freezing and causing damage. This step is essential for maintaining the longevity of your equipment.

4. Cover the Pool Properly

Invest in a high-quality pool cover to shield your pool from the elements. A solid cover prevents debris from entering the water and helps maintain the water’s chemical balance. Make sure the cover is securely fastened to prevent it from blowing away in strong autumn winds. If you opt for a mesh cover, ensure it’s tight enough to keep leaves and other debris from getting into the pool.

5. Check and Maintain Surrounding Areas

Don’t forget to check the area surrounding your pool as part of your fall maintenance routine. Trim back any overhanging branches that could drop leaves into the pool or cover. Ensure that your deck is free of cracks and hazards, and clean any furniture or equipment that won’t be used during the winter. This maintenance not only improves the aesthetics of your pool area but also ensures safety for anyone using the space.

 

 

Taking the time to properly maintain your pool in the fall can save you time and money come spring. By following these tips, you’ll ensure your pool stays in excellent condition, ready for another summer of enjoyment. Embrace the beauty of fall, and take pride in your well-maintained pool—it’ll pay off when the warm weather returns! If you want to learn more about pools, check out our articles below:

How to Enjoy Your Backyard This Fall

The Top Backyard Pool Trends in 2024

Inground Pools: How to properly operate an automatic pool cover