Most homeowners who have a swimming pool would agree that it’s a desirable amenity. A pool can offer amazing family bonding, exercise, relaxation and entertainment. It can also boost property values. However, don’t be fooled into thinking that swimming pools require zero maintenance. When fall comes around, and you’re ready to close the pool down for the season, there are important steps to safeguard your investment. One of these is draining the water in your pool.

Winter Pool Water Can Do Significant Damage

Cold temperatures are not a friend to water as it expands and freezes. This simple reaction can cause damage to the structure of your swimming pool, including tears in the pool’s lining and the cracking of pool tiles.

Even if you decide to shut off only the equipment, the residual water in your pool can wreak havoc as it freezes, resulting in a potentially leaking pump and damage to the pool heater. That’s why the water levels need to be drained.

Proper Winterization Follows These Rules

Experts say completely draining a swimming pool for the winter is unnecessary. Doing so may lead to structural instability. However, generally speaking, the draining should take your water levels down to just below the skimmers and jets. This technique will help your pool maintain its plumbing capabilities, keep the walls intact and avoid any freezing damage. A seasoned professional knows that the pool design and climate can determine the right levels of drainage to protect a swimming pool.

Hydrostatic Pressure Is Another Key Concern

If you neglect draining the water in your pool this fall, you could run into hydrostatic pressure problems. When a swimming pool isn’t drained correctly, the tremendous pressure and weight of groundwater around the pool can build up. These issues can lead to cracks, a shifting in the pool or in rare cases, the entire in-ground pool could “pop” out of the ground.

A swimming pool is a wonderful investment for homeowners. You want your backyard oasis to deliver many years of pleasure, but skipping the pool draining before winter could spell disaster and costly repairs down the road.

The Experts Can Help

Then, you know how nasty the winter weather can get and the freezing temperatures that can follow. Don’t be caught off guard; protect your swimming pool in Torrington, CT, and call in the friendly experts at Hydrocare today for all your pool maintenance services. Our pool and spa professionals can help you through the winterization process and customize it to your specific needs.