Winter is in full swing here in Texas and though we don’t have much snow, it is important not to neglect your pool cleaning so you may enjoy it when the summer heats up. If you aren’t sure what to do first, it is not difficult but it is important.

Failing to keep track of what pool maintenance needs to be done during winter months can make for costly repairs that need to be made during the summer months.

Before winter begins you should cover your basics and go through this simple checklist:

• Clean all debris (leaves, bugs, toys, etc…).
• Use a shock treatment on the pool.
• Drain some, not all of the water.
• Drain water from the filtering systems, pump and heating unit.
• Tightly cover your pool.
• Store you filter hoses away.
• Stow away extra equipment, toys and furniture.

Your cover is a vital part of this checklist, so you want to make sure it has no rips or tears in it before securing. Regardless of what kind of pool you have, above ground or in ground this is an important step. Throughout winter, watch to make sure there aren’t too many leaves and other debris piling up on the cover as this may cause is to tear.

It is important to check your water levels. Water levels can fluctuate by the ever-varying climate here in north Texas. Water levels should never be lower than 18″. You do not want your water levels to get too low, low water levels can damage your pool making for costly repairs later.

With the slightly warmer winters we have here in north Texas, algae too can be problematic. Check regularly for algae in your pool. If you do notice algae in your pool the best thing to do is add a does of algaecide to reduce growth.

Make checking your pool cleaning before winter a habit; this is save you time and money during spring and summer.