When the weather cools down, pool care doesn’t stop. You might not be swimming, but your pool still needs attention. Wondering why? Because the water sitting there all winter will be the same water you uncover in spring. That means winter pool maintenance is key if you want a clean, damage-free opening.

Great Falls Pools offers year-round residential pool care, including winter maintenance for saltwater and chlorine pools. If you’re doing it yourself, here are some essential tips to help.

When Should You Winterize Your Pool?

According to HGTV, “It is important to have winterization complete so you can close your pool before the first hard freeze. But if you winterize too early, there’s a greater likelihood of water chemistry problems arising during the offseason.” For most pool owners, this is solid advice. Your weekly service company can help answer specific questions about timing of winterization based on your location and climate.

Why Winter Pool Maintenance Matters

Neglecting your pool during the colder months can lead to:

• Cracked equipment from freezing water
• Algae or bacterial growth under the cover
• Imbalanced water chemistry that damages surfaces and components
• Expensive repairs or replacement come spring

Winter care protects your investment and gives you a head start on pool season.

DIY Winter Pool Maintenance Checklist

1. Check regularly
   • Clear off leaves and debris, even if you have a cover
   • Peek under the cover occasionally to check water clarity
2. Balance your chemicals
   • Test and adjust pH, chlorine, and alkalinity weekly
   • Avoid long-term chemical imbalances that can damage your pool
3. Inspect your equipment
   • Monitor the filter gauge and clean or backwash if needed
   • Look for leaks, corrosion, or worn parts
4. Watch the weather
   • Freeze warnings? Keep your water circulating
   • Consider a freeze protection device or timer
5. Clean occasionally
   • Empty skimmer and pump baskets
   • Skim, vacuum, and brush if needed to prevent spring surprises

Should You Winterize Your Spa?

HGTV recommends, “The first step in winterizing a spa is deciding if you want to close it down for the season or enjoy sitting in hot water surrounded by snow. If you opt for winter tubbing, review your manual’s instructions for use in freezing weather.” For most of the spas we service in the DC area, it’s a great option to keep them open throughout the winter, just don’t forget they need routine service to make sure you can enjoy safe, clean, balanced spa water whenever you want to relax.

Benefits of Professional Winter Pool Service

Hiring a pro means:

• Catching problems early
• Preventing freeze damage
• No guesswork on water balance or equipment care

Our residential pool services are available even in the off-season. We tailor every visit to your pool’s needs and keep your system protected all winter long.

Service Area

Great Falls Pools provides winter pool maintenance in Northern Virginia, including Fairfax County (Great Falls, McLean, Vienna, Oakton, Fairfax, Falls Church, Annandale, Burke, Springfield, and Reston), eastern Loudoun County, Arlington, and the City of Falls Church. We also serve Northwest Washington, D.C. (Georgetown, Spring Valley, and Palisades) and Potomac, Maryland.

Don’t Want to Deal With Winter Pool Care?

That’s what we’re here for. Whether you need weekly checks, emergency service, or full seasonal care, contact us to set up a custom winter maintenance plan.

Protect your pool now so it’s clean, safe, and swim-ready when spring rolls around.