September is finally here! The summer heat is beginning to subside, with cooler nights and mornings, and the kids are officially back in school. Your pool usage may have started to slow down, which means now is the ideal time to begin prepping for the colder months ahead.
While southern New Mexico generally experiences mild winters, it’s still important to understand your region’s unique climate and take steps to protect your pool during the winter. Even in cooler temperatures and occasional rain, your pool’s water chemistry and equipment will still be at risk.
No need to worry, though! Here are 5 key tips to help you prep your pool for the dropping temperatures this year:
The winter months can be very hard on your pool and pool equipment, so make sure you have these essential equipment:
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Pool Cover
- A pool cover is perhaps one of the most vital pieces of equipment to help protect your pool this winter. You will need it to help prevent debris, water evaporation, and will drastically reduce algae growth. There are a couple different types of pool covers for you to choose from, depending on your own needs and preferences.
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Mesh
- Covers made from mesh material are generally lighter in weight and easier to handle. However they do allow rain water to pass through which may affect the water levels.
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Solid
- Covers usually made from a thick vinyl material, which provides a more solid barrier. However it can easily be caught by wind, so it must be weighed down via water bags (make sure you have spare bags incase one sprouts a leak), weights, etc. Some pool owners add some water on top in the center as well to keep it from moving around from wind, however that is up to your preference. So keep this in mind when purchasing.
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- A pool cover is perhaps one of the most vital pieces of equipment to help protect your pool this winter. You will need it to help prevent debris, water evaporation, and will drastically reduce algae growth. There are a couple different types of pool covers for you to choose from, depending on your own needs and preferences.
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Freeze Guard
- The options for protecting your pool pump from freezing temperatures vary. Some owners simply run their pumps during below-freezing conditions. Others opt for a freeze protection timer that automatically activates the pump when temperatures drop. This automated approach is more common in New Mexico’s milder winters. Alternatively, you can blow out the pump lines to remove any moisture, using an air compressor, ShopVac, or a “Cyclone” blower (the Cyclone blower is highly recommended, especially for extensive plumbing). After clearing the lines, install winterizing plugs and add RV or pool antifreeze (never use automotive antifreeze). This manual method is better suited for more extreme weather, but the choice is yours. Regardless of the approach, be sure to do thorough research, and consult local pool maintenance services if you’re unsure.
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Pool Skimmer
- During the winter months, your pool is at risk of collecting a wide variety of leaves, twigs, insects, and other debris on its surface. Using pool skimmer, a device that removes said debris from the surface of the water, can help keep your pool clean and extend the lifespan of your pool filter by significantly reducing its workload. This not only improves the overall health and appearance of your pool, but also saves you money on maintenance fees and replacement parts. Luckily for you, our friends at Pentair offer a vast range of pool supplies, including high-quality skimmers, to help you maintain a clean and well-functioning pool all winter long.
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Pool Brush
- Neglected pools, especially during the winter, can develop unsightly and hazardous algae growth on the walls and floor. This algae makes the pool slippery and dangerous to use. Regularly scrubbing the pool with a brush is an effective way to prevent algae buildup and maintain a safe, clean swimming environment. Just like the pool skimmers, Pentair also offers an assortment of pool brushes and scrubbers in different shapes and sizes to make your pool squeaky clean!
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Pool Vacuum
- As you enjoy quality time indoors with loved ones, debris can collect at the bottom of your pool, making it challenging to clean manually. Using a pool vacuum is an effective way to remove this buildup and keep your pool sparkling clean while easing the burden on your filter system. You can choose between a handheld vacuum or invest in a robotic cleaner – both Pentair and Maytronics offer a range of options to suit your needs and preferences.