Even if you have your pool covered, some debris may still get in it during the winter. For this reason, you should consider running your pump on occasion whenever the outdoor temperature is between 35 and 65 degrees. Around four to six hours should be sufficient to remove debris and help promote good circulation.
Depending on the size of your pool, we still recommend the pump run 8-10 hours per day during the hottest summer months and at least 6 hours per day during the winter months.
The filtration system cannot operate without the pump running. Remember as we say at PoolSide, clear water doesn't mean good water, but good water will be clear. Depending on the size of your pool, we still recommend you run your pump run at least 4-6 hours a day during the fall and winter months.
Run your pool pump continuously when temperatures are near or below freezing. You don't need to run your heater, moving water likely will not freeze. Disconnect any aerators and lines to slides. Booster pumps for pool cleaners don't need to run continuously.
When you cannot circulate water, the water stagnates and chemicals tend to settle out in the lower levels of the pool. It makes it almost impossible to add any chemicals because you don't have a good way to mix the water.
Keep the pump and filter on while you are away.
Most pumps come have an automatic timer that makes this very easy. Set it before you leave to ensure the pool filter system will run at least 8 to 12 hours per day.
A pool can only be safe for swimming without a pump for a few days and a maximum of one week. The definite number of days the pool will be safe will also depend on the temperatures of the water, the weather at that particular time, the level of chlorine, and how clean the pool was before the pump stopped functioning.
Make sure you first winterize the pump, whether or not it gets removed for indoor storage. Remove the strainer cover lid and remove the drain plugs at the bottom of the strainer (depending on your pump). Turn on the pump briefly to expel water from the impeller after the water has drained.
With the cold months upon us, pool owners may be wondering how to prevent their pools from freezing. Yes, they can freeze solid. If temperatures reach below zero, swimming pools that are not circulating can freeze solid within a few days.
Lower the water level to below the skimmer. Clear pipes and equipment of water using a blower or compressor and plug the pipes at the pool. Add swimming pool antifreeze to the lines to prevent freezing. Place a Gizzmo* (or similar device) in the skimmer to seal it and absorb pressure from ice.
Yes! You don't have to close the pool, and you can keep it open year 'round, with or without a pool heater. Or for those in very cold climates, you could also consider a very late closing and early opening, winterizing and closing the pool for just 3 or 4 months, instead of the normal 6 or 7 months.
Your pool equipment is a major expense; it is important to winterize your pool filter properly at the end of every season. Here are a few hints to keep your filter in tip top shape.
Drain the water down to no more than 6 inches from the bottom of the skimmer if you plan to use a standard floating winter cover. Use your pool filter, switched to the "Drain" setting, to empty the pool water.
At what temperature does a pool freeze? Chlorinated and non-chlorinated pools freeze at the same temperature. However, salt water pools will freeze at a slightly lower temperature. It should also be noted that above-ground pools will generally freeze at a higher temperature than inground pools.
If you want to winterize your Intex pool without breaking it down, you can. Just remember how susceptible they are to ice damage, and consider whether you want to run the risk of ruining your pool for the sake of skipping the chore of closing it.
It may be cheaper to run the pump at night, but honestly you should run it 1 hour a day per 10 degrees of temperature at least, and it should be during the day. Running the pump at night should only be when you are doing a major chemical treatment such as algae clean-up.
Your pool can keep running for a few days with no problems while without a pump. However, know that a standard pool needs a pool running for at least once in 24 hours, or you might notice an algae bloom. So, it's best to have your pump ready as soon as possible.
If you are without power, grab your pool brush! Not only will scrubbing the sides and bottom reduce or prevent algae, it also causes the water to move and circulate, helping maintain an even level of chlorine throughout the pool.
How Long Should I Run My Pool Pump For? Ideally, you should run your pump for 24 hours a day, but we know that's unrealistic (and pricey), so let's look for an answer that keeps your pool clean and your wallet full. Generally running your pool pump for 12-hours a day is a good option.
The rule of thumb is generally 8 hours, although it could be anywhere from 6-12 hours, depending on your pool's size. Each pool is unique, so to keep your pool pump efficient and effective, you need to figure out exactly what your pool's turnover rate is.
Add Extra Chlorine
Since you'll be away, you'll need to put extra chlorine in the pool to cover your absence. Put an extra tab in the skinner or turn up the automatic chlorinator a few notches. Shock the pool twice as hard as you normally would.
The cover is designed to touch the surface of the water. So your pool should always be filled when covered, and the water level should never go below 18 inches from the top of the pool. Check the water level of the pool and fill it up if it goes below 18 inches.
Most experts recommend waiting at least until temperature drops below 65 degrees Fahrenheit (18 degrees Celsius) to winterize your pool. However, if you can wait longer until your pool is below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius), you will have a much lower risk of problems occurring.
Without winterizing your pool, the water could turn green with algae. If the chlorine system stops functioning, you'll say adieu to the beautiful blue pool you know and love. Come spring, your pool will be a homely sight and cause a real dent in your wallet. Bacteria that feed on algae could even cause health risks.