The Importance of Keeping Your Pool Water Balanced Over Winter
As the temperatures drop and pool use slows down, it’s easy to forget about pool maintenance during the winter months. However, neglecting your pool in the off-season can lead to costly repairs and a time-consuming cleanup come spring. One of the most important tasks during this time? Keeping your water balanced.
Here’s why water balance matters—even when you’re not swimming:
1. Prevents Algae Growth and Bacteria Build-Up
Cooler water temperatures can slow the growth of algae and bacteria, but they don’t eliminate it. Without proper chemical balance, algae can still take hold—especially if your chlorine levels drop too low. Maintaining the correct pH and sanitizer levels keeps your pool water clean and clear, even under the cover.
2. Protects Your Pool Surfaces and Equipment
Unbalanced water—particularly low pH or high acidity—can corrode metal parts, etch plaster surfaces, and degrade pool equipment like pumps and filters. On the flip side, high pH or calcium hardness can cause scaling and cloudy water. Proper balance helps preserve your investment.
3. Saves Time and Money in the Spring
A well-maintained pool over winter means an easier, faster, and cheaper opening when warm weather returns. Balanced water prevents staining, scaling, and biofilm build-up, reducing the need for deep cleaning, shock treatments, or equipment replacement in the spring.
4. Maintains Cover Integrity
Believe it or not, what’s under your pool cover affects how well it lasts. Water that turns green or cloudy can cause an increase in organic material that strains and stains your cover. Balanced water minimizes chemical reactions that might damage your pool cover over time.
Winter Water Balance Checklist
Make sure to check and adjust the following levels:
Chlorine/Sanitizer: Keeps bacteria and algae at bay
pH (7.2 – 7.6): Prevents corrosion and scaling
Alkalinity (80 – 120 ppm): Stabilizes pH levels
Calcium Hardness (200 – 400 ppm): Protects plaster and tiles
Cyanuric Acid (30 – 50 ppm): Helps chlorine last longer (if applicable)
Pro Tip: Winterize with a Professional
Even if you’re not swimming, your pool still needs periodic care. At Micks Pool Care, we offer seasonal water testing, chemical balancing, and winter check-ins to ensure your pool stays protected all year long. That means less hassle and a swim-ready pool come spring.
Don’t let winter ruin your pool. Keep your water balanced and protect your investment year-round. Contact us today to schedule your winter maintenance visit!