Now that the winter months are creeping in it

If you are shutting down your pool for the winter the first thing that you need to do is to make certain that you have balanced levels of total alkalinity, calcium hardness and pH. Making sure that the water is chemically balanced will protect the top of the pool from staining and etching. Utilizing a winter swimming pool chemical kit will help to keep the water in your pool looking blue and clear ready for the summer. If you are getting ready to close your swimming pool for the winter then you might find these tips useful. Lowering the level of the water so that it is below the entrance to all the plumbing that leads to the pump and filter is a good idea. Doing this will stop additional water from entering the cleaning and heating system of the pool when it isn't being used. This helps as it prevents water from getting into the plumbing where it might freeze, expand and cause plastic pipes to crack creating leaks. It also helps to protect the water filter and pump from becoming damaged, which could result in you having to buy brand new parts. Make sure that you have cleared out all of the water from your pump, heater, plumbing and filter. You can typically drain your filter by pulling out the plug at the bottom of it. It is important to remember to open the air valve so that all the water flows out. Do the same to drain the pump and when it is drained turn it on for a second to get the last trickles of water out. It is also sensible to check the feeder and make sure it is clear of any chemicals as these can cause damage to all of your equipment. Take off your summer swimming pool cover, clean it and either store it away or leave it on the roller and put a cover over it. You should now put a winter cover on the water to keep out any debris that fall in to the pool. If you have children or pets you might want to get a winter safety cover. These safety covers will make sure that any animals, children or adults are safe if they accidentally fall into it. These sorts of covers can save lives as children or pets can become tangled in a regular winter cover and drown.