Cool Pool Deals carries over 8,000 different products and parts to assist customers with their pools, spas, and outdoor entertaining. We have helped people start from scratch, supplying all equipment and accessories, to people who just need a new filter or spa fragrance. No order is too big or too small - you'll find it all right here in our amazing selection of pool supplies online.

Not only do we provide a wide range of pool supplies online, we also offer extensive information on pool products and accessories, including what to look for, where to buy, and how to maintain chemicals (and chemical alternatives,) lights, cleaners, vacuums, nets, filters, pumps, ladders, loungers, liners, heaters, covers, and more. Check out our learning center for all these useful facts and tips!

Closing Your Pool For Winter

As summer comes to its end, for many it is time to worry about closing up the pool for the off-season. Don’t just pull out your pool vacuum cleaner; truly winterize your in-ground pool!

The best place to start is by fishing out of storage all the necessary equipment. This list includes the winter cover, pool chemicals, pool vacuum, air compressor, water tubes, plugs, etc. The list can be long but it is better to be safe than sorry. Being well-winterized makes the opening in the spring so much easier!

Once you have gathered your gear, start by cleaning the filter. Sand filters can be backwashed as can a DE style filter. Once the DE filter is backwashed, clean the elements, and store. Cartridge filters should also be rinsed and elements removed. All filters should be stored in a dry area.

Valves, pumps, lines, skimmers, and gauges should be drained and stored with like items for easy access in the spring. Some manufacturers suggest using a pool chemical, like an anti –freeze product, to protect parts. An automotive anti-freeze should be avoided at all costs due to toxicity and the fact that use of this product would require a full drain/clean. An air compressor or shop vac can help with this step as well.

At some point, the final cleaning must be done and done well. First, all toys and accessories should be pulled and stored. Then, make sure that all debris and algae growth is removed with a pool vacuum and that the basin is super clean as is the water. Small parts, such as bolts, bumpers, fittings and so forth, should be kept together for future use. It is helpful to store these in the skimmer or even the pump baskets to avoid the frustration of replacement in the spring.

After a break for cold lemonade and an update on the college football scoreboard, it is time to address the chemical balance of the water. The alkalinity should fall between 100-150 ppm. The pH should appear in the range of 7.2 – 7.6. It is wise to keep the chlorine level higher, over the 3.0 mark, for winter. A shock style pool chemical is one of those recommended for winterization. Once the additives are in the water, make sure they are circulated for several hours or even overnight.

The last two main steps address the water level and the cover. A complete draining is not recommended as it puts too much pressure on the basin as the temperatures change; however, all underground pipes must be blown out in order to keep water levels higher. A good rule of thumb is to keep the level at, or just below, the skimmer when a cover is being used; but, not lower than 18 inches from the deck. As for the winter cover, it must be thoroughly inspected for tears, rips, and holes in order that it not let debris and foreign objects through during the course of the winter months. Repair kits are available in the case of small problems, but occasionally a new cover should replace an old, beat-up one. The cover needs to fit securely as well. For those owners who employ a water tube type cover, all water tubes should be replaced that broke the prior winter, filled about 85% full and sealed fully. They need to be able to expand, so never overfill. Occasionally the covers should be checked and cleared of any excess moisture, leaves, or other debris so that they work properly throughout the entire winter.

Of course, those who own pool heaters may have some extra time to spare. Did you know that pool heaters will often double the length of the swimming season?

Of course, extending the swimming season doesn’t mean that a pool will never close down for winter. Sooner or later you’ll have to close the pool up and we are here to help.

Not only do we provide a wide range of pool supplies online, we also offer extensive information on pool products and accessories, including what to look for, where to buy, and how to maintain chemicals (and chemical alternatives,) lights, cleaners, vacuums, nets, filters, pumps, ladders, loungers, liners, heaters, covers, and more. Check out our learning center for all these useful facts and tips!

CoolPoolDeals.com is the place you can return to again and again for tips and education about your pool, pool supplies and accessories. We offer name brand products just as we provide timely delivery and dedication to customer service.