The swimming season is over, and your pool is closed. This
is one of the most important times for your pool. As many of
you know, pools are costly, and if they are not properly
maintained and winterized the expense can increase
exponentially the next season. Here are some tips and
suggestions that should help you to minimize your
expense year to year.
• Check to make sure the “Pool Closed” sign is posted on the
entrance gate.
• Check to make sure the pool cover is right side up, rubber
backings should be on the underside of the pool cover, not
on the surface.
• All pool cover straps should be attached to the brass
anchors that surround your pool.
• The cover should be free of rips, and tightly secured to the
pool with minimal sagging in the center.
• All pool openings in the pool should have a plug in them,
there should be no holes in the pool left open for water to
access. Water is the enemy and should be completely out
of your system.
• We are a company that uses antifreeze for winterizing, but
some do not use antifreeze. Thus, it is crucial that all the
PVC pipes are free of water which is accomplished by
blowing air through these pipes, or what we commonly
refer to as the lines (skim lines, equalizer lines, and drain
lines).
• In the pool pump room make sure all valves are open, and
plugs have been removed from PVC piping to allow for
water to escape the system.
• Make sure all caps, plugs, and hair lint strainer baskets are
placed in the same location to prevent items from getting
lost. We suggest the extra-large size zip lock bag to
store everything appropriately.
• Make sure the water is shut off to your pump room, and the
valve controlling the main water source in the pump room
is open.
• All water to the building should be shut off, and water meter
disconnected.
• Ask your maintenance person, or your pool company for a
list of items that need attention, or need to be purchased
so you can plan for the next year so you limit the number
of surprises that may pop up.
• If you have restrooms make sure the water lines have been
blown out and are free of water.
Safety First: Pool covers – it is important to understand that
the pool cover protects your pool’s surface and keeps debris
out. However, the true purpose of the pool cover is safety.
Pools are considered an attractive nuisance, and a place
where people are genuinely curious. Thus, a pool cover
prevents someone from falling into your pool, and potentially
experiencing life-threatening injuries, and/or potentially
death. Pool covers range in quality, and if properly
maintained will be warranted by some manufacturers for up
to ten years. Sure, they are expensive, but in the long run
vital for your community’s protection.
I hope this information is helpful, and should you have any
questions please feel free to contact me.
Frederick J. Inter, PhD
President/General Manager
Columbus Pool Management
Email: Fred.Inter@Columbus-pmg.com
Phone: (614)-554-0744
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