Maintaining Crystal-Clear Water: Essential Pool Care Tips for Fall

As the summer heat fades and leaves begin to fall, pool care takes on a new focus. While the frequency of dips in the pool may decrease, proper maintenance remains essential for keeping your pool water sparkling clean and healthy throughout the fall and winter seasons. Here at Dickson Brothers, we want to help you ensure your pool transitions smoothly into the off-season with these essential pool care tips for fall:

Leaf Management:

Skimming and Netting: Fall foliage can quickly become a nuisance in your pool. Regularly skim the surface to remove leaves and debris before they decompose and cloud your water. Invest in a fine-mesh net to scoop up any leaves that sink to the bottom.
Invest in a Leaf Net: Consider installing a leaf net around your pool skimmer basket to trap leaves before they enter the water. This can significantly reduce the frequency of skimming.

Chemical Balance is Key:

Test Regularly: Continue to test your pool water's chemical balance weekly, even if pool usage is less frequent. Fall weather can affect chlorine levels and pH, so adjustments may be needed to maintain proper sanitation and prevent algae growth.
Maintain Chlorine Levels: While slightly lower chlorine levels may be sufficient compared to peak summer usage, ensure adequate chlorine remains present to combat bacteria and algae growth. Consult your pool manual or a Dickson Brothers pool expert for specific recommendations based on your pool size and sanitizer system.
Shock Before Closing (Optional): If you plan to close your pool completely for the winter, consider administering a shock treatment before adding a winter cover. This helps kill any lingering bacteria or algae that may persist during the off-season.

Circulation and Filtration:

Run the Pump: Maintain regular pump operation throughout fall. While you may adjust the running time compared to peak summer usage, consistent circulation is vital for proper water movement, filtration, and distribution of chemicals. Consult your pool manual for recommended pump operation times during the off-season.
Clean the Filter: Regularly clean your pool filter throughout the fall to ensure optimal performance. The frequency of cleaning may vary depending on your pool usage and debris load, but aim to clean the filter at least once every two weeks.

Preparing for Winter (Optional):

Lower the Water Level: If you plan to close your pool entirely for the winter, slightly lower the water level to prevent freezing water from damaging the pool walls or skimmer. Refer to your pool manual for specific instructions on winterization procedures.
Winterizing Equipment: If you live in a region with freezing temperatures, consult a pool professional for proper winterization of your pool equipment, including pumps, filters, and heaters. This prevents damage from freezing water.

Dickson Brothers: Your Partner in Pool Care

Fall is a great time to get ahead on pool maintenance before winter arrives. At Dickson Brothers, we offer a wide range of pool supplies and equipment, including pool chemicals, testing kits, filters, and winterization products. Our knowledgeable staff is always happy to answer your questions and guide you through the fall pool care process.

By following these essential tips and consulting the Dickson Brothers team, you can ensure your pool remains crystal clear and well-maintained throughout the fall season, ready for a refreshing dip next spring!