Pool Guide

Why winterise your pool?

In winter, an unprotected pool can suffer significant damage. Stagnant water encourages the growth of algae and bacteria, frost can damage pipes and equipment, and the accumulation of debris in the pool makes it difficult to get it back into service. In addition, proper winterisation limits the consumption of water and chemicals when the pool is reopened.

Active or passive winterisation: which method should you choose?

Active winterisation involves keeping the pool running at a reduced capacity during the winter. The filtration system runs for a few hours a day to prevent freezing and preserve water quality. This method is ideal in regions where temperatures remain mild and where the risk of frost is limited. Passive winterisation, on the other hand, consists of putting the pool to sleep by completely stopping the filtration and lowering the water level. A specific treatment is applied before closing to prevent the growth of algae and bacteria. This method is recommended in regions prone to frost.

The essential steps for successful winterisation

Complete cleaning of the pool

Before winterising the pool, a thorough cleaning is necessary. All floating debris must be removed, impurities on the bottom must be vacuumed up and the walls must be brushed. Particular attention should be paid to the skimmers and filter baskets, which should be emptied and cleaned. Once cleaning is complete, the water should be perfectly balanced. The pH should be adjusted (ideally to between 7.0 and 7.4) to prevent limescale deposits and prolong the effectiveness of the winterising products. A shock treatment is recommended to eliminate micro-organisms before the pool is put into hibernation.

Lowering the water level and protecting the pipes

As part of passive winterising, the water level must be lowered below the delivery nozzles to prevent the water from freezing in the pipes. The entire hydraulic circuit must be purged by draining the pump, filter and pipes to prevent frost cracks. Winterising plugs are placed on the delivery nozzles and skimmers to prevent water from entering them. Winter floats are also placed on the surface of the water to absorb the pressure exerted by the ice.

Protect the pool with a suitable cover

A winter cover is essential to protect the water from impurities and limit evaporation. There are several types of covers:

• Opaque winter covers, which block out light and prevent the growth of algae.
• Winter nets, which retain debris while allowing water to drain.
• Roller shutters, which provide effective protection and make it easier to get back into use in the spring.

A properly installed cover reduces the need for chemicals and maintains water quality throughout the winter season.

Maintenance and monitoring during the winter

Even with passive winterising, it is important to monitor the pool during the winter. After heavy rain or snowfall, the cover should be checked and cleared if necessary. A monthly check of the pH and water level will allow you to anticipate any imbalances. In the case of active wintering, the filtration system should be programmed to operate a few hours a day, especially during periods of frost. It is recommended that a frost-free box be installed, which automatically activates the pump when the temperature drops below a critical threshold.

Restarting in spring

As the warm weather approaches, the pool should be gradually brought back into service. The first step is to remove the cover and clean the water line. If the water is still clean, a simple extended filtration and adjustment of the chemical treatment will suffice. However, if there are impurities present, a partial drain and shock treatment may be necessary. The equipment must be put back in place and checked before restarting. The pump and filter are reassembled and purged, and the winterising plugs are removed. Once the pool is back in use, the filtration system must run continuously for several days in order to stabilise the chemical balance of the water.

Successful winterising for a preserved pool

Winterising your pool properly prevents frost damage and ensures clean, healthy water in the spring. By following good practices and choosing the right method, it is possible to effectively protect your pool while minimising the work required when it comes to putting it back into service. Paying particular attention to cleaning products, the water level and protecting the equipment guarantees a smooth transition between seasons.