The recent snows in the Metroplex declare one thing—winter has arrived with gusto in Dallas-Ft. Worth. So what does this mean for your pool?

With some help from the experts at About.com, here are some basic pool winterizing tips to help you protect your pool investment and keep it ready for the arrival of the warm sun next spring:

Say No to Debris

Consider a cover. Covers are simple, easy and keep out debris. All types and ranges of covers are available, including custom-made covers for those of you with pools shaped like Cowboys Stadium. As an added benefit, covers also trap in heat, keeping the pool usable and heating bills low if you’re planning on occasional winter dips.

Pay attention. Even if you’re not using your pool regularly, it doesn’t mean it won’t still require attention (even if not to the same degree you’d give it during the summer). Winter means falling leaves and clogged filters while you’re inside by the fire.

Chemistry Matters

The wrong chemical balance in your pool can lead to staining and etching on the pool’s surface over time. They key is keeping pH, total alkalinity and calcium hardness at their proper levels. You can add a winterizing chemical kit, which will help keep the water clean and clear until spring arrives again. Avoid “floaters” and chlorine tablets, as both can stick to and damage the walls of your pool over time.

Stop Freezing

You might have dealt with frozen pipes before. Water expands when it freezes, which can crack pipes and equipment. To avoid this, lower your pool level below the skimmer mouths, and remove the water from your plumbing lines using an industrial blower or vacuum. Finally, drain all the water out of your filter equipment.

At Venture Custom Pools we also offer a pool maintenance program in Dallas Ft Worth to handle your routine maintenance schedule. Contact us for more information.