Extending the lifespan of your pool and ensuring quality water for the following summer involves a crucial step: winterizing your pool. Last week, we discussed pool heaters that allow you to extend swimming into autumn and spring. But for many, another solution naturally presents itself: winterizing their pool. This helps preserve it during winter so you can fully enjoy it as soon as warmer weather returns.
In this article, we will explain in detail the different winterization techniques and the essential equipment needed to protect your pool during winter.
Why winterize your pool?
Before diving into the heart of the matter, it's important to understand why it's necessary to winterize your pool. Contrary to popular belief, a pool should never be completely emptied during winterization. Indeed, the weight of the water in the pool helps keep the liner in place, thus preventing the deformation of the basin's structure. Furthermore, the water plays a protective role for the walls against thermal shocks caused by frost.
Regular monitoring of pool water temperature
A crucial element to monitor is the water temperature. It is advisable to measure the temperature regularly during winter. Below 12°C, algae proliferation slows down, making pool water treatment less necessary. However, as soon as the temperature exceeds this threshold, algae can proliferate, making continuous treatment mandatory. This is why it is crucial to monitor temperature changes to know the exact moment to switch to winterization mode.
The two types of winterization: passive and active
There are two main methods for winterizing your pool: passive winterization and active winterization. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice often depends on the region you are in and the equipment you have.
Passive winterization: a complete solution for winter
Passive winterization consists of completely shutting down the pool for the winter. This method is particularly recommended if you live in a region where winter temperatures regularly drop below 0°C. It requires several steps:
- Lowering the pool water level: It is advisable to reduce the water level by 20 to 30 cm so that it is about 10 cm below the return jets and skimmers. This prevents water from freezing in the pipes and damaging the equipment.
- Pool cleaning: Before stopping filtration, it is essential to thoroughly clean the pool, especially the walls, waterline, bottom of the basin, and to use a skimmer net to remove floating debris. This ensures that the water remains clean throughout the winterization period.
- Cleaning the pool filtration system: Drain and thoroughly clean the sand or cartridge filter, as it will not be used during winter.
- Installing winterization plugs: Once cleaning is complete, place winterization plugs on the return jets and skimmers to protect the pipes from freezing. It is also advisable to place winterization floats in the basin to prevent ice from damaging the walls.
Active winterization: maintaining minimal filtration
Active winterization is a more flexible option, which involves maintaining a minimal level of activity in the pool. This method is often used in regions where winters are milder and temperatures do not consistently drop below 0°C. Here are the steps for successful active winterization:
- Maintain normal water level: Unlike passive winterization, the water level is kept at its usual level to allow filtration to continue to operate.
- Reduced filtration: Filtration must be maintained, but in a reduced manner. In winter, when the water temperature is below 12°C, it is sufficient to run the filtration for 2 to 3 hours a day. This maintains minimal water circulation, thereby reducing the risk of stagnation and algae proliferation.
- Specific winterizing products: It is essential to add a specific winterizing product to the water. This product helps prevent the appearance of algae, limits the formation of scale, and prevents the water from becoming cloudy during winter.
Furthermore, you can find our explanatory video on the different steps of active winterization for your pool:
How to protect your pool from frost?
Frost is one of the biggest enemies of your pool in winter. It can cause irreversible damage to pipes and equipment. Fortunately, there are specific devices to combat frost.
Install an anti-frost device (DHG2)
For active winterization, it is advisable to install an anti-frost device, such as the DHG2 anti-frost box. This system is equipped with a probe that continuously measures the ambient air temperature. When it drops below 0°C, the DHG2 automatically activates the filtration pump. This allows water to circulate in the pipes, thus preventing ice formation.
Thanks to the integrated probe, this box triggers filtration as soon as the air temperature is too low, thus ensuring continuous protection against frost. It is an ideal solution for pool owners who want to avoid the hassle of frost while maintaining minimal maintenance during winter.
Should you use a winter cover?
To enhance the protection of your pool during winter, the use of a winter cover is highly recommended. This cover protects the water from external impurities such as leaves and debris, and also reduces the risk of algae formation. Additionally, it helps limit heat loss and preserve water quality for several months.
There are several types of winter covers: opaque covers, which prevent light from penetrating, and bar covers, which can also serve as a safety measure to prevent accidents.
Conclusion: prepare your pool for winter
By adopting a winterization method adapted to your pool and your region, you ensure that your pool remains in perfect condition throughout the cold season. Whether you opt for passive or active winterization, it is important to follow all preparation steps to protect your installation. When summer returns, all you have to do is remove the cover, restart the filtration, and enjoy a clean and ready-to-use pool.
Thus, taking care of your pool during winter guarantees a summer season without unpleasant surprises!
