Hamilton, N.J.–Autumn has arrived and it is time to close most pools and spas, but by taking just a few smart steps now and over the winter, you can enjoy an easy spring opening and a summer of fun in 2015, according to the Northeast Spa & Pool Association (NESPA).
Step #1: Protect your pool during the cold season with a sturdy winter cover. “We never know what kind of winter we will have here, so prepare for the worst by protecting your valuable pool and spa asset with a winter cover,” suggested John C. Migliaccio, CPO, CBP, President of the Northeast Spa & Pool Association. “Add a solid cover or a fine-mesh cover to the pool–both will block debris and sunlight from entering the pool. The benefit of a fine-mesh cover is that rain and water will seep through it into the pool with no build-up on the surface of the cover.”
Step #2: Make a mental picture or take an actual photo of the pool cover in place at the time of closing. If the pool cover changes from the picture, such as sagging into the water, take action by clearing the cover of water, snow and debris.
Step #3: Add algaecide to the pool over the winter to keep that water clear and ready for the next pool season. “We recommend buying three quarts of algaecide now and adding a quart to the pool on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and Valentine’s Day. I mention these three holidays as a way to jog your memory to take care of the pool,” said Migliaccio. “Treating the pool with algaecide is inexpensive, effective and will keep algae growth under control, even if we have a warm winter as we sometimes do.”
Step #4: Consider a “Winter Watch” program for your pool if you do not have the time or would prefer that an expert handle your pool. Many NESPA pool service professionals offer a Winter Watch program where a service professional will come out to your pool during the winter to check on conditions there. This type of program is particularly important to all pool owners who escape to warmer climates for much of the winter and want that pool ready and waiting for a delightful spring and summer of pool fun.
About the Northeast Spa & Pool Association
The Northeast Spa & Pool Association is the Northeast affiliate of the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP). Founded in 1958, the nonprofit association represents the pool and spa industry in the Northeast and serves members through extensive training programs, safety promotions, design competitions and compliance education. To learn more, visit www.nespapool.org. To contact our builders, retailers and service professionals, visit http://www.northeastspapool.org/nespaMemberLocator/. For the latest news from NESPA, follow us on Twitter (@NE_Spa_and_Pool) and Facebook (/NortheastSpaPoolAssoc).