Before the harshest temperatures of winter hit most people partake in a few specific home maintenance projects to winterize their homes. Certain winterization projects help keep the costs of energy usage down and ward off potential damage that may be acquired throughout the season. What many people fail to do is properly care for their pool and jacuzzi before winter begins and hits its stride. Preparing and caring for water features during the winter is important because extensive damage can arise from the water freezing. Keep these tips in mind as your prepare and care for your pool and jacuzzi during the winter.

Pool winterization tips:

1. Clean water, check the pH and treat it with the appropriate products and winterizing chemicals.
2. Lower the water level according to the type of pool cover and drain the water from all the valves, piping, heater and filter.
3. Remove and clean all accessories such as: handrails, ladders and diving boards.
4. Drain the pump by removing the plugs, or by using  a wet/dry shop vac.
5. Set all timers to “off” and turn off the circuit breaker.
6. Tightly secure the pool cover to protect the water and keep out debris.

Jacuzzi winterization tips:

• If you are closing your spa…
  1. Program your filter and heat cycles to run at night.
  2. Purchase a spa cover that traps heat such as a “thermal blanket” or “solar cover” – this will decrease evaporation.
  3. Disconnect the pumps or plugs placed at low points and drain pipes and lines of water to prevent freezing.
  4. If available set your jacuzzi to the setting that helps it avoid freezing.
  5. Remove and clean any parts that are removable and store them indoors.
  6. Drain the tub of all water.
  7. Drain pumps and motors and re-drain the tub or soak up remaining water.
  8. Cover with an appropriate thermal blanket or solar cover.
• If you are using your hot tub during winter:
  1. Continue with usual cleaning and maintenance practices.
  2. Use an insulating cover when the spa is not in use.
  3. Remember the colder it is the longer your jacuzzi will need to run in order to heat up. They will also need to run longer to maintain temperatures.

If you do not feel comfortable preparing your pool or spa for winter contact a local professional.

Tips adapted from Pool & Jacuzzi about.com and Hot Tub Warehouse.

Image from Penguin Pools.