When winter is finally over and spring comes, I can’t wait for better weather and the chance to use my above-ground pool again. But before I can jump into the cool water, I have to do something important: clean my pool after it slept through the winter. As the sun gets brighter, I find that I have the knowledge and skills I need to get my pool back to its perfect state.
At first, the process can seem like a lot to do, like getting rid of trash and leaves and balancing the chemistry of the water. But don’t worry! Through a lot of trial and error over the years, I’ve come up with a quick way to get my pool ready for summer fun. In this blog post, I’ll show you step-by-step how to clean your above-ground pool after winter so you can swim in water that is clear as glass all summer.
Why Should Your Above-ground Pool Be Cleaned After Winter?
There are several reasons why you need to clean an above-ground pool after winter. First of all, trash, debris, and algae can build up in the pool during the winter and when no one uses it for a long time. Leaves, twigs, and other things made of biological matter can build up on the pool cover and end up in the water when the cover is taken off. If you don’t take care of these contaminants, they can change the quality and brightness of the pool’s water.
Also, the circulation rate of the pool’s filter system is usually turned down or turned off during the winter. This can lead to water that doesn’t move, which is a great place for algae and bacteria to grow. Cleaning the pool after winter helps get rid of any algae that has grown and keeps dangerous microorganisms from spreading.
The pool equipment will last longer and work better if it is cleaned and maintained on a regular basis. If you don’t take care of your pool, the filters can get clogged, the water flow can slow down, and the pump system can get overworked. Cleaning the pool after winter makes sure that the filtering system is clear of dirt and can work well, keeping the water clean and the circulation going well.
A clean pool is also more attractive and fun to swim in. No one likes to swim in a pool with trash, leaves, or water that is cloudy. After the winter, cleaning the pool makes sure that the water is clear, clean, and safe to swim in.
Steps to Clean Your Above-Ground Pool After Winter
Cleaning an above-ground pool after the winter is important to make sure it is safe and clean to swim in. If you don’t do the right upkeep, dirt, debris, and algae can build up and make the pool dirty and less functional. We’ve put together a step-by-step guide on how to clean your above-ground pool after winter to help you through this process.
Take the pool cover off
Taking off the winter cover is the first step in cleaning your above-ground pool. Remove any leaves, sticks, or other garbage from the top of the cover so they don’t fall into the pool. Once the pool is clean, carefully take off the cover, being careful not to let any water or debris that has collected on it fall into the pool. Clean the cover separately and put it away in the right way so you can use it again.
Get the Water Out
If the water level in your pool is above the skimmer, you’ll need to drain it until it’s at the right level before you can clean it. Use a pump that goes under the water or a pool cleaner to get rid of the extra water. Be careful not to drain all the water, as some water is needed to keep the structure of the pool in place. Check with the manufacturer’s instructions or a professional to find out how much water should be in your pool.
Remove Large Debris
Once the water level is right, take out any big pieces of trash that are floating on the water or have settled at the bottom. Use a skimmer net to scoop out any leaves, bugs, twigs, or other waste that you can see. Before moving on to the next step, it is important to get rid of these big pieces.
Clean the pool filter
The pool filter’s job is to get rid of small bits and other things that shouldn’t be in the water. Your pool may have a sand filter, a cartridge filter, or diatomaceous earth (DE) filter, depending on how it filters the water. Follow the directions from the manufacturer on how to clean or replace the filter. Most of the time, you have to backwash the sand filter, spray down the cartridge filter, or replace the DE filter grids. Cleaning the filter makes sure it works well and keeps the water clear.
Brush the pool walls and floor
Use a pool brush with stiff bristles to clean the pool’s walls, floor, and steps. This will help get rid of any algae, dirt, or spots that grew over the winter. Pay more attention to spots that are dirty or discolored. Start at the top and work your way down, covering all areas as you go. If you have trouble getting rid of spots, you may need to use a cleaner or stain remover made just for pools.
Vacuum the Pool
After you brush the pool, it’s time to vacuum it to get rid of any leftover dirt, algae, or trash. Follow the directions from the manufacturer to hook up the pool vacuum to the filtration system. Move the vacuum slowly across the pool, making sure to meet each pass to clean it well. Watch out for edges, cracks, and places that are hard to get to. If your pool has a vacuum port, use it to clean it faster and better.
Check the water chemistry and get it in balance
Use a pool water testing kit to check the pH, chlorine level, alkalinity, and calcium hardness of the water before adding any chemicals. Change these values to fit the suggested ranges. When the chemicals in water are out of balance, problems like algae growth, cloudy water, and skin and eye inflammation can happen. Follow the directions on the pool chemicals you choose to get the balance you want.
Shock the Pool
It is important to shock the pool to get rid of any leftover contaminants. Adding a strong dose of chlorine or a non-chlorine shock to the water is called “shocking.” This kills bacteria and breaks down organic matter. Carefully follow the directions on the shock product, taking into account how big your pool is. Shocking the pool should be done in the evening or at night, when the sun isn’t as strong, because the sun can make the shock less effective.
Use the filtering system
After shocking the pool, turn on the filtering system and let it run for 24 to 48 hours straight. This will help the chemicals move around and get rid of any leftover dirt. Check the filter’s pressure gauge to make sure it is within the suggested range. During this time, backwash or clean the filter as needed.
Monitor and Maintain
Once the first cleaning is done, keep an eye on your pool often to keep it clean. Every day, skim the top to get rid of any floating trash, and every so often, clean the skimmer baskets and pump strainer. Check the chemical amounts in the water often and change them as needed. Also, think about using a pool cover when no one is swimming to keep trash from building up and to stop water from evaporating.
By doing these things, you’ll be able to clean your above-ground pool well after the winter and make sure it’s ready for the next swimming season. Your pool will last longer if you take care of it regularly throughout the year, and you won’t have to clean it as much in the future. Make sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions and get help from a professional if you need to.
Are There Some Other Ways to Clean Above-ground Pools After the Winter?
Yes, you can clean an above-ground pool in other ways than just draining it. Even though the steps in the previous guide are common and successful, you may want to try something different or add more steps depending on your needs and situation. Here are some other options to think about:
Use a Pool Vacuum Robot
Instead of cleaning the pool by hand, you can buy a robot that does it for you. These machines clean the pool floor and pick up trash as they move around the pool on their own. They can be very helpful if you have a big pool or don’t have much time to take care of it.
Power-wash the Walls of the Pool
If algae or stains are hard to get off the walls of your pool, you might want to use a power washer made for pool cleaning. This high-pressure water spray can successfully clean the pool walls by getting rid of dirt and grime.
Get Help from a Professional
You can hire professional pool cleaners if you don’t know how to clean your pool or don’t have the time or tools to do it yourself. These professionals have the skills, tools, and information to clean and take care of your above-ground pool well. They can make sure the pool is clean and give advice on how to keep it in good shape.
Use Enzyme-Based Cleaners
Traditional chemical cleaners for pools can be replaced with cleaners that use enzymes. Enzymes in these cleaners break down organic substances like oils, lotions, and other dirt. They can be good for the earth and help keep the pool environment in balance.
Consider Pool Cover Alternatives
If debris keeps getting on the pool cover, you might want to look into other choices for pool covers. Mesh covers, for instance, let water pass through but keep leaves and other big things from getting into the pool. This can make it easier to clean up after the winter.
Research and think about the unique needs of your above-ground pool. If you need to, talk to a professional and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using alternative cleaning methods.
FAQs
After the winter, how often should I clean my above-ground pool?
At least once a year, especially after the winter when the pool hasn’t been used, the pool should be cleaned and maintained. But the regularity of cleaning can change based on things like the weather, the area around the pool, and how often the pool is used. If you see a lot of trash or algae, you may need to clean your pool more often.
Do I need a professional to help me clean my above-ground pool, or can I do it myself?
Most people who own an above-ground pool can clean it themselves. Step-by-step directions for a thorough cleaning are given in the guide for the cleaning process. But if you aren’t sure how to clean your pool or don’t have the time or tools to do so, getting professional pool cleaners can help you get a better and more thorough job done.
Do I have to empty the pool completely before cleaning it?
Most of the time, you don’t need to drain the whole pool to clean it. Usually, adjusting the water level to the right range is enough. But if your pool has a lot of algae, a lot of trash, or other problems, you may need to drain it partially or fully to clean it more thoroughly.
How long does it take to clean an above-ground pool after the winter?
How long it takes to clean an above-ground pool after winter depends on things like the size of the pool, how much dirt or algae has built up, and how the pool is cleaned. Most of the time, it can take anywhere from a few hours to a whole day to clean something completely.
What should I do if the walls or floor of my pool keep getting dirty or stained?
If you have trouble getting stains or discoloration off the walls or floor of your pool, you can try using cleaners or stains made just for pools. These items are made to get rid of specific stains and can help your pool look like new again. Carefully read the product’s instructions and test it in a small area before putting it on the whole pool.
Does the pool need to be shocked even if the water looks clear after winter cleaning?
Yes, you should shock the pool after cleaning it for the winter, even if the water looks clear. By shocking the pool, any bacteria, organic matter, or algae that might not be obvious to the naked eye are killed. It makes sure that the water is clean and safe enough to swim in.
Can I clean my above-ground pool with natural or eco-friendly ways?
Yes, there are ways to clean above-ground pools that are natural and good for the environment. For example, natural enzymes are used to break down organic waste in enzymatic pool cleaners. You can also think about cleaning your pool with items that are labeled as eco-friendly or safe for the environment.
How can I keep winter trash from building up too much on the pool cover?
During the winter, a leaf net or cover pump could be used to keep the pool cover from getting too dirty. Putting a leaf net over the pool cover will catch leaves and bigger pieces of trash, making them easier to clean up. With a cover pump, water won’t pool on the cover, making it less likely that trash will fall into the pool when the cover is taken off.
Is there anything I should do to keep myself safe when I clean my above-ground pool after winter?
Yes, it is important to take care of safety when cleaning a pool. Use the right safety gear, like gloves and masks, to protect yourself. Be careful with poisons and carefully read and follow the directions. Make sure that any electrical equipment you use near the pool is grounded, and always put safety first when working near water.
Can I use my pool as soon as it’s been cleaned?
After the pool has been cleaned and the chemicals in the water have been balanced, it is usually safe to use. But it’s best to wait until the chlorine levels drop to a safe level and let the filter system run for a few hours to make sure the water flows well. It is suggested that the water quality be checked regularly to keep it safe and fun for swimming.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning an above-ground pool after winter is a vital step to maintain water clarity, remove debris, and ensure a safe and enjoyable swimming experience. By following the recommended cleaning steps and considering alternative methods if needed, you can keep your pool in optimal condition for the upcoming season. Regular maintenance and care will prolong the life of your pool and enhance your overall pool ownership experience.
