Closing a Pool
So the swimming season has drawn to an end. It is now time to find a new type of fun. It is that season when we have to close our pools for fall and winter. This can seem like a daunting task, that would be so time consuming. Following is a list of things to do to make it easier and not quite so scary.
Balance the Chemistry of Your Pool
About one week before you decide to close your pool you need to balance the chemistry of your pool. First be sure that your pH is between 7.2 and7.6 to avoid acidic or base water. You want your Alkalinity to be between 80and 220 parts per million. You also want your calcium hardness to be between 180 and 220 parts per million. After you have made any necessary adjustments, following the product instructions exactly, you need to shock your pool. This would not include a battery or light socket.
For a shock, you use a chlorine shock or non chlorine shock system. After following the product instructions carefully, you need to allow the chlorine level to return to between one and three parts per million. After the chlorine has returned to a normal level you can then mix in your winter algaecides and any floating pool covers you may have. Before you apply the algaecide, be sure to read the instructions completely. It is important to follow them very closely. Read all caution labels before using any pool chemicals.