Much as we hate to admit it, summer will soon start to wind down. With the kids returning to school in the coming weeks, you may start thinking about how to prepare your pool or spa for the changing season. While the cooler months bring a welcome break from the heat, they also present new challenges for maintaining your pool or spa. The good news? With the right steps, you can extend the enjoyment of your backyard oasis well into the fall while ensuring it stays in top condition.
At Waterworks Pools & Spas, we’re here to help you make the seasonal transition seamless. Whether you want to keep your spa warm and inviting or prepare your pool for the cooler months, this guide has everything you need to know.
Enjoy Your Spa Year-Round
One of the best things about owning a spa is that it’s not limited to summer use. As the weather cools, your spa becomes even more inviting - a warm, bubbling retreat where you can relax under the stars or enjoy crisp fall evenings.
Why Spas Are Perfect for Fall:
- Warmth and Comfort: The heated water and hydrotherapy jets make your spa the perfect place to unwind as temperatures drop.
- Stress Relief: Fall can be a busy time, especially as you start to transition routines, but a soak in your spa can help ease tension and improve sleep.
- Social Connection: Spas are great for hosting small gatherings or spending quality time with family, even when the pool is closed for the season.
To keep your spa ready for use, ensure it’s properly maintained. Regularly test the water chemistry, clean the filters, and use a high-quality cover to retain heat and keep debris out.
Extending the Use of Your Pool into Fall
While pools are often associated with summer, there are ways to extend their usability into the cooler months. With a few adjustments, you can enjoy your pool for longer and make the most of your backyard.
1. Heating Options: Investing in a pool heater allows you to maintain a comfortable water temperature even as the air cools. Whether you’re swimming laps or hosting a fall pool party, a heater ensures your pool stays inviting.
2. Covers to Retain Heat: A good quality pool cover is essential for cooler weather. It helps retain heat, reduces evaporation, and keeps debris like falling leaves out of the water.
3. Lighting for Shorter Days: As daylight hours shorten, adding or upgrading LED lighting can extend your pool’s usability into the evening or make it an option for an early morning dip. It also creates a beautiful ambiance for nighttime swims or gatherings.
Adjusting Water Chemistry for Cooler Weather
As temperatures drop, your pool and spa’s water chemistry will change. Staying on top of these adjustments is key to keeping your water clean and safe.
1. Test Water Regularly: Cooler weather can slow down chemical reactions, but it’s still important to test your water weekly. Check pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels to ensure they’re within the ideal range:
- pH: 7.2–7.8
- Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm
- Chlorine: 1–3 ppm
2. Use Stabilizers: Cyanuric acid helps protect chlorine from breaking down under UV rays, even as sunlight exposure decreases.
3. Add Algaecide: Algae can become a problem as pool use decreases. Adding an algaecide helps prevent growth and keeps your water clear.
If you’re unsure about your water chemistry, bring a sample to our showroom for free professional testing. Our experts can provide tailored advice to keep your pool or spa balanced and address any current issues.
Essential Maintenance Tasks for Fall
Even if you’re not in your pool as often as in the summer months, it’s really important you keep a proper maintenance schedule. Here are some key tasks to tackle:
1. Clean and Inspect Equipment:
- Clean filters, skimmers, and pumps to ensure they’re functioning efficiently.
- Inspect equipment for wear and tear, and address any issues before they worsen.
2. Remove Debris:
- Falling leaves and debris can clog filters and lead to algae growth. Skim your pool regularly and consider using a leaf net or cover to minimize debris.
3. Check for Leaks:
- Small leaks can become bigger problems over time. If you suspect a leak, contact Waterworks for professional detection and repair services.
Click here if you’d like a more in-depth guide to maintenance.
Preparing for Winterization (If Needed)
If you’re planning to close your pool or spa for the season, you’ll need to complete a proper winterization process to prevent damage and make reopening easier in the spring.
When to Winterize:
- Pools: Winterize when temperatures consistently drop below freezing or when you no longer plan to use the pool.
- Spas: If you don’t plan to use your spa during the winter, it’s best to drain and winterize it to prevent freezing damage.
Steps for Winterizing a Pool:
- Lower the water level to below the skimmer.
- Clean the pool thoroughly and add winterizing chemicals.
- Cover the pool securely to protect it from debris and freezing temperatures.
Steps for Winterizing a Spa:
- Drain the spa and clean the shell.
- Remove water from pipes and equipment to prevent freezing.
- Use a high-quality cover to protect the spa during the winter months.
This is important to carry out correctly, so we offer professional winterization services so you can cross it off your to-do list and leave it to the professionals.
Why Choose Waterworks for Your Seasonal Pool and Spa Care?
At Waterworks Pools & Spas, we’re dedicated to helping you enjoy your pool or spa year-round. From free water testing to professional maintenance and winterization, we provide everything you need for a stress-free seasonal transition.
What We Offer:
- Expert advice on extending the use of your pool or spa into fall.
- High-quality covers, heaters, and accessories to enhance your backyard experience.
- Professional services, including equipment inspections, leak detection, and winterization.
Enjoy Your Pool or Spa
Transitioning your pool or spa from summer to fall doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right steps, you can extend your enjoyment of your backyard oasis while protecting it for the cooler months ahead.
Need help preparing your pool or spa for fall? Visit our showroom at 194 Killam Drive, Moncton, or contact Waterworks today to schedule a maintenance or winterization service. Let us help you make the most of your pool or spa, no matter the season!