To prevent water from becoming too corrosive or producing heavy calcium deposits, during the winter months, you must have proper chemical balance. To start the pool closing process:
pH of the water should be 7.2 – 7.6
If pH is lower – add pH increaser – Soda Ash
If pH is higher – add pH decreaser – Muriatic Acid
Adjust water hardness to proper level of calcium in the water
Calcium levels should be between 175 and 225 parts-per-million (ppm) for all pool types
To increase the level, add calcium hardness increaser.
To decrease, drain some water and refill
Check and adjust chlorine level in the pool water. Chlorine is what kills all the bacteria, viruses and germs in the water. However, the sun’s UV rays can diminish its effectiveness, so pool water also needs a chlorine stabilizer.
Check the stabilizer level and adjust to 30 ppm.
Check the chlorine level and adjust to 1 to 4 ppm
Contact your local pool service company with number of gallons in your pool to determine correct amount of chemical.
If you cover your pool during the off season, tie a string to the floater filled with chlorine tabs. (so you can retrieve and re-fill every week) This will help ensure your pool water stays clear during the winter months.
Pool Safety not only includes watching the children and having a pool fence around your pool but also, keeping the pool water chemically balanced thru out the year.