Pool
Closings
It's that
time of year again, when we all start thinking about pool closings. One
question you might ask yourself is do I need to close my pool or spa down? This
is answered by another question: are you planning on heating your pool or spa
for the the season? If you are planning on heating your pool and or spa then, no, you don't need a closing. If your not, then you do need a closing.
What is
involved in a pool closing?
There are a lot of steps involved with a pool
closing. First you need to drain to pool down past the lowest plumbing line in
the pool, usually the return lines.
Then you need to blow the lines out with an
air blower, a shopvac will not work don't try it.
After lines are blown out,
antifreeze will need blown through all of the lines.
Then all lines will need
to be plugged, and all equipment needs to have all plugs removed.
You may be
asking how do you winterize the main drain lines? You just blow air through the
line, and then air lock it by closing the valve while the air is still on.
Don't worry, there is enough water in the bottom of the pool to keep it from
freezing. Chemicals will be placed in remaining water to help make it easier to
open in the spring time.
If you have a spa all these steps will need to be done
on it as well. One thing that you have to remember is that all lines must have
all water removed from them or there can be a possible freeze break. Also one
good rule of thumb is blow antifreeze in the lines and when you see a faint
hint of it coming out you have enough in the lines. This is also good if you do
not know how the plumbing was run.
Finally, you want to install the cover on the pool and spa. And remember to
set up the cover pump if applicable.
Pool closing
can be a overwhelming task and is usually best left to a pool professional. It
can also take specialized equipment to winterize your pool. Also remember that
most of the pool equipment have plugs in them. Heaters like to have hidden
ones, so pay close attention to them. And if you don't close your pool properly,
you may damage your pool. This can be a very expensive repair for you if a line
breaks. Ask a pool professional to close your pool.
Midwest Custom Pools is not
responsible if you close you pool on your own! This is simply information on what to expect your pool professional to do during the close.
