For most of Florida, pool season ends generally in October. If your pool is not heated, here are some tips for preparing a Florida pool for winter with shorter days and cooler nights resulting in significantly lower pool temperatures, especially for uncovered pools that lose lots of heat to the nighttime sky.
In northern states, it is fairly common to totally drain a swimming pool during the winter months. While we may not have to “winterize” our pools in Florida, we still need to take some important steps to keep our pools happy and healthy year-round. Here are some tips for preparing a Florida pool for winter, if your pool is not heated for “year ’round use”.
Continue Cleaning
Keep your filter clean and vacuum as usual. Even though you are probably using your swimming pool less frequently during the winter months, it is still important to maintain a regular cleaning routine. Empty the debris traps every few days to prevent leaves and debris from building up and clogging your pool’s filtration system.
Monitor Water Level
As rainfall decreases and chilly nights become more common, the water in your pool will begin to evaporate. Don’t be surprised if your water level drops an inch or two in a week. To prevent your pool’s water level from getting too low, monitor it and add water as needed.
Prevent Algae Build-Up
Keep testing the water and keep it circulating! Even in winter, many areas of Florida are prone to algae bloom, due to fluctuating temperatures and weather conditions. To prevent algae build-up, test your swimming pool’s water chemistry and balance as needed. run the pump for at least 6 hours a day.
Invest in a Pool Heater!
A pool is a big investment. For maximum enjoyment even when it’s chilly out, make the most out of your swimming pool by investing in a pool heater and you can enjoy your well-maintained pool throughout the winter.