Winter Pool Care Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs

Winter brings a much-needed break from poolside lounging, but it doesn’t mean you can neglect your pool. Proper winter maintenance is critical to ensuring your pool remains safe, clean, and ready for use once the warmer months return. Many homeowners unknowingly make mistakes that can lead to costly repairs, damage, or even unsafe swimming conditions later on. By learning what not to do during the off-season, you can save money, protect your investment, and extend the lifespan of your pool. Let’s explore some common winter pool care mistakes to avoid.

One of the most common mistakes pool owners make is ignoring water chemistry before closing their pool for winter. If chlorine, pH, alkalinity, or calcium hardness levels are not properly balanced, it can lead to algae growth, scaling, or corrosion. These issues may not be immediately visible, but can cause significant damage to the pool surfaces and equipment over time. Always test and adjust your water chemistry before winterizing.

A poor-quality or incorrectly fitted cover can create serious problems. Leaves, debris, and even small animals can find their way into the water, making spring cleaning a far more difficult task. Worse, a sagging or unsecured cover can collapse under the weight of snow or ice. Invest in a durable, tightly secured pool cover designed to withstand harsh winter conditions to keep your pool protected.

Failing to lower the water level before freezing temperatures set in can cause cracks, leaks, or damage to your pool structure and plumbing. Water expands as it freezes, putting stress on your pool walls, tiles, and pipes. Always lower the water to the appropriate level and consider using a pool antifreeze in the lines for added protection.

Ladders, skimmers, toys, and other accessories should always be removed, cleaned, and stored before winter. Leaving them in the pool or exposed to harsh weather can cause them to deteriorate faster, leading to unnecessary replacement costs. A thorough cleaning now can extend the life of these accessories and keep them ready for spring.

Many pool owners assume that once the pool is winterized, they can forget about it until spring. This is a big mistake. Covers can shift, water levels can drop, or unexpected weather conditions can cause problems. Regularly checking your pool throughout winter ensures you catch small issues before they become expensive repairs.

Avoiding these common mistakes can save you from costly repairs and ensure your pool is in great shape when swimming season returns. For professional help in winter pool care, trust Athens Pool and Spa, serving the Athens, Georgia community for over 40 years. With decades of expertise and a commitment to excellence, our team ensures your pool is well-maintained year-round, protecting your investment and giving you peace of mind. Contact Athens Pool and Spa today to prepare your pool for the cold season and beyond.