Mercury (Hobart)

Winter pool maintenanc­e

- KIRsTen JaKuBenKO

fgnoring your pool in winter can be problemati­c come the summer swimming months. pome regular pool cleaning maintenanc­e now will ensure your backyard oasis is properly taken care of. To save you time and money try these quick tips.

Clean the skimmer box

The cooler months means an increase in leaves and debris falling into your pool which could potentiall­y clog your pool system. If your skimmer box is full the filter motor will have to work twice as hardI putting unnecessar­y strain on your system. po remember to clean the skimmer box every couple of weeks.

Check your water chemistry

ff you haven’t had your water tested profession­ally lately it’s a good idea to do so following the wild summer weather. lnce your me levels are correct make sure you home test every few weeks and adjust chemicals accordingl­y. Actioning this will avoid algae or mould to growI keeping your pool crystal clean during winter.

Backwash

Although your pool filter doesn’t work as hard during winterI it is still important to do a regular backwash. bvery few weeks is a good idea. then doing soI take a bit of extra time to check sealsI tubes and pipes for any wear and tear. mroblems left unattended can lead to bigger problems later.

Check pool lighting

mool lights are a great feature in any pool. tinter is a good time to check that your underwater lights and switches are all in good working order. A good tip is to turn your lights on regularly as the heat from the lamp aids in drying out any condensati­on within the light cavity and helps prevent corrosion.

Oil timber decking

thile the sun isn’t at its beaming hottestI give your timber decking a good clean and scrub. lnce dry apply timber decking oil in long clean strokes to protect the timber from the sun's elements.

Glass clean

Most modern pools these days have a glass fence for visual appeal. eowever these can be a hassle to keep clean when the kids are frequently splashing about in summer. Therefore now is a great time to clean your pool glass for it might actually stay that way for weeksI if not months.

Prune pool plants

diving the plants around your pool a good trim will minimise debris falling into your pool water. A healthy prune in the winter months will also promote healthy growth come spring time.

Clean chairs and umbrellas

All outdoor furniture will love a good cleanI and oil if it’s timber.

An unused - now clean umbrella need not be exposed to the elements of winter eitherI so it would be beneficial to pack it away to extend its lifespan.

Pool cover

iastlyI consider getting a profession­ally fitted pool cover to keep leaves and debris out of the water.

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