Timing of closing AG pool

[markcw97]

Our summer is about gone here in Charlotte, and the leaves and pine needles have started their downward journey towards the pool.

It means increasing amounts of time cleaning the pool and our swimming enjoyment has dwindled to about zero.

I read in pool school that you wait until the water temperature is down to about 60. We are still over 70 degrees and I wonder what the implications are for us closing the pool "early"? Will we need to adjust the chemicals a little over the coming weeks until it gets that cold? (that could be difficult with the cover on, no?)

What makes 60 a magic number?

Thanks for any help!!

 

[Texas Splash]

Studies show that 60 and below make organic development extremely slow. Pre-treating the pool during the closing process with water temps below 60 provides the best chance for a successful opening in the spring. In short ... close late & open early. If you close too early and the water temperature hoovers too high, there's a higher chance for algae to get a foot-hold (algae is more active) and create more problems for your opening next season.

Best scenario .... hold-off as long as you reasonably can. While you may not be able to swim in the chilly water soon, simply remove the leaves and debris as the tress shed their foliage. Test your water like normal, although the cooler water will preserve your FC better and you should be able to space your testing days further apart. When you are sure the colder temps are here to stay and the water is at 60 or below, follow the winterization steps on the TFP page and you should do well.

Enjoy your weekend.

 

[markcw97]

Thanks so much, Pat!

That makes a lot of sense.