Updated: November 7, 2022

Winterizing a pool in Florida? Though snow and ice are rarely seen in Florida, our state still experiences the occasional cold spell. While it may not be necessary to drain your pool, it’s important to be prepared. Read more to learn how to get your pool ready for winter in Florida.

Keep Cleaning Instead of Winterizing a Pool

Leaves, twigs, and insects are still around in the winter in Florida. Keep up a regular cleaning schedule that includes vacuuming and emptying debris traps. It’s important to keep the pool clean, even if you’re using it less often. A clean pool is less likely to develop algae or problems with the filtration system.

How do you winterize a pool in Florida?

Winterizing a pool in Florida is very different than winterizing a pool in other parts of the country. In Florida, you don’t need to drain the pool and you don’t need to add any antifreeze.

All you have to do is cover the pool with a Pool Cover and make sure the water level is above the skimmer. This will keep the water from evaporating and it will also keep out debris, insects, and leaves. You can also attach a solar blanket if you want to help keep the water warm.

Check Chemicals and Run the Pump Instead of Winterizing a pool

Algae can still develop in Florida in the winter. Test your pool’s chemical balance and run the pump for four to six hours per day to circulate water and chemical to discourage algae formation. With cooler weather and fewer people using the pool, it’s okay to reduce the chlorine level slightly.

Watch the Water Level

Winter is dryer in Florida, and your pool water will continue to evaporate. Keep an eye on the water level and refill as necessary to keep the level up to where it should be.

Inspect Your Pool Screen Enclosure

Homeowners who have a pool screen enclosure will have less cleaning to do than those that don’t. Nevertheless, give the enclosure a thorough examination for wear and tear after the busy summer pool season. Check for loose fasteners or rust, as well as rips in the screen panels. Inspect the doors to ensure they’re closing and locking correctly, for security. Get these repaired to prevent further damage to the enclosure. Replace damaged screen panels to ensure the enclosure keeps leaves and debris out as it should. Clean out the structural gutters, which can get clogged with leaves and twigs as winter approaches.

Those that don’t have an enclosure can use a safety cover to ensure no one falls in or becomes trapped in the pool when it’s not in use. A mesh cover will catch debris and allow rainwater to drain through, so puddling rainwater won’t collect and attract insects or wildlife. When spring comes, think about adding an enclosure to reduce the need to constantly clean and skim for leaves and debris.

Consider a Pool Heater

Although freezing weather is very rare in central Florida, the days are cooler, and the nights can be chilly in winter. As you prepare your Florida pool for winter, consider adding a pool heater. These can extend the swim season, making the water welcomingly warm during cooler weather.

Pool Screens R Us provides pool screen and screen room repair services, as well as gutter cleaning. Contact us for these pool enclosure and screen room or lanai maintenance needs.

Can you keep a pool open year-round in Florida?

Yes, you absolutely can keep a pool open year-round in Florida! In fact, many people do just that. While the weather does cool off somewhat in the winter months, it’s still warm enough to enjoy a dip in the pool and there’s nothing quite like swimming under the stars on a balmy Florida night.

Of course, there are a few things you need to take into consideration when keeping your pool open year-round. First and foremost is safety. Make sure to have your pool inspected by a qualified professional before opening it for the season and be sure to keep up with regular maintenance and cleaning.

Remove any Accessories

Taking any toys out of the water and detaching any ladders and handrails is important if you plan to use a cover. You also want to remove anything that might collect rainwater (e.g. inflatable loungers, floats). These don’t just get in your cover’s way, but they’re also breeding grounds for bugs and mosquitoes.

Use a Cover

Even if you don’t plan on performing any winterizing steps, covering your pool will reduce the amount of cleaning, filtering, and chemicals necessary until next summer. Make sure you choose a cover that doesn’t have any large gaps or holes in it because debris will use these to enter the water.

The best cover is one that’s made from mesh because it’ll protect the water from dirt, debris, and leaves while also protecting a person from drowning if they were to accidentally step onto the covered surface. These covers don’t require a pump either since rainwater can seep through.

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