Question: Hello Robert, I love reading the articles you write. I’m a first-time homeowner with a pool and have already learned a lot from reading your information. My question is about the pool. Do I need to cover it in the winter months? I know we don’t really get “winter,” but do I need to do anything special as the temperatures cool and rain happens? Thank you for any advice you can think of, to share on this.
— Jessica V.
Answer: Jessica, congrats on your first home. Not much changes year-round here, regarding pool care. Cooler temperatures should use up less chemicals — that’s a win. I’d focus on keeping debris out of the pool, plus of course, always staying on top of the water balance.
Depending on what equipment you have if any, keep that in good working order. I recommend automation if you can afford it, to keep both the surface and the bottom clear of debris. The less debris that makes it into your filtration system, the better.
Automatic “robots” for the pool are game changers; they work independently of the pool filtration system so their baskets can be cleaned and avoid most of that going into the pool’s system. It also saves you the hassle of being out there with a net on the surface, scooping leaves, and with a brush, scrubbing the bottom and sides.
If you don’t already have something like this, I highly recommend it. Please reach out if you’d like specific recommendations. I’ve tried many different versions over the years as a lifetime pool owner. I do have my favorites.
As far as covering, I’d first consider safety if you have pets or children. If you put a cover on that is not secured to the deck with no possible penetration areas, this can be certain death for a child or pet, as they’d be trapped. Research this topic and find what best suits your life and family.
If you are looking to have some extra warmth during the colder months in the pool, there are solar covers, but they generally warm the top of the water. Once this is mixed in with the rest of the water, it may or may not be warm enough to enjoy. It’s all very personal. I wouldn’t cover my pool to avoid debris; I like the automated equipment to do this work. It helps me keep an eye out on the clarity of the water also, in case there were to be an issue. Best of luck.
Robert Lamoureux has more than 40 years of experience as a general contractor, with separate licenses in electrical and plumbing contracting. He owns IMS Construction Inc. in Valencia. His opinions are his own, not necessarily those of The Signal. Opinions expressed in this column are not meant to replace the recommendations of a qualified contractor after that contractor has made a thorough visual inspection. Email questions to Robert at [email protected].
