The weather in Utah can be difficult on your swimming pool, but even when the seasons change there are some things you can do to prevent damage to your pool and keep it in top shape for plenty of warm-weather fun to come.
Learn About Your Water Table
The water table in your area—the level at which the ground under your pool is completely saturated with water—can have an impact on pool construction. It’s important to understand what your water table is and consider measures to equalize the water table and the pool water level. It’s also important to check for leaks, since an area with relatively low water levels in the soil will quickly absorb water from a leak in your pool, causing soil erosion around the pool.
Keep pH in Balance
Algae will grow in your pool if the pH balance is off, and when it does, it can lead to corrosion on the surface of the pool or reduce the effectiveness of chlorine. Check pH levels at least once a week and add chemicals as need to keep them in balance and keep algae growth at a minimum.
Winterize Your Pool for Cold Weather
Before the temperatures hit a freezing point, you should winterize the pool. This helps prevent damage when temperatures are below freezing, such as burst pipes or cracks in the pool surface and other apparatus. It also helps ensure that when you open the pool in the spring it will be clean. A professional pool service company can help with winterizing if you’re not sure how to do it, or don’t think you will have time.
Check for Cracks, Chips, and Leaks
Cracks and chips in the pool deck can be dangerous as well as aesthetically displeasing to look at. On the outside of your pool, cracks and chips could cause people to trip and fall, but they can also indicate a serious problem, such as ground shifting underneath or a sinkhole. Be on the lookout for these external signs of a problem underneath, and call a pool contractor right away if you see something that needs to be fixed.
Pool owners should also examine the inside of the pool regularly for cracks, leaks, or chips. Your pool may also develop leaks in the plumbing system, which can be harder to spot, but some of the signs might include:
- Water levels that are always low, even after you refill the pool
- Excessive use of chemicals to balance the pH in your pool
- Soil erosion around the area of your pool’s pipes
The good news is that a pool company can often detect leaks without destroying your pool or the area around it. Call a pool company today if you discover any of these issues and need repairs or to have someone check the pool for problems.