Should I keep the pool closed for the Summer?

[Sleiman]

We're doing major renovations on our house (demolishing and rebuilding) that we don't think we'll be able to use the pool at all. Should I open it anyway then cover it for the Summer, or should I leave it as is and wait till next season to open and treat it then?

 

[ajw22]

What type of cover do you have on your pool?

Even closed, with a vinyl pool, you need to check and maintain the water level while closed.

If you keep the pool closed you will probably have a green pool when opening next year which is fixable.

 

[Sleiman]

Thanks Allen. I got similar advice. I will ask for plywood to protect the pool and can top up the water with a hose if needed. Just wanted to make sure that I won't face a huge problem next season.
Do you think a few doses of algae fighting chemicals would help at all?

 

[ajw22]

Do you think a few doses of algae fighting chemicals would help at all?

Chlorine is the best algae fighting chemical.

 

[Sleiman]

Won't be practical for me to keep adding chlorine. Perhaps open the pool and have the SWG running would probably be best then? That vs the cost of getting rid of algae next season, unless there's also the risk of the liner ending up with a hard-to-remove stain?

 

[ajw22]

If you open it, run the pump at a low speed with the SWG on, and cover it with plywood, the water shoudl stay clear and you just need to check the water chemistry and water level once in a while. The SWG should be at a low % with the pool covered.