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DON’T NEGLECT YOUR POOL… Most people tend to neglect their pools during the winter months, but doing so can cause serious health issues when the weather begins to warm up again and the pool begins to be utilised again. Photo: Supplied.
Page 16 – The Adviser. Australia No. 1:1315 Wednesday, August 10, 2016
S Taking
care of your
pool during winter AS we enter the final month of the cold winter weather, thousands of pool-lovers may be at risk of developing serious health issues when spring breaks, from pool water that’s received little or no monitoring over the chilly winter months. New research has revealed that 53 percent of pool owners let pool maintenance slide during winter on the assumption that bringing the water back from ‘green to clean’ will be an easy task when the weather turns. A neglected pool is a prime breeding ground for harmful bacteria that could lead to outbreaks of gastro, respiratory problems and infections of the skin, ears and eyes, and so it is important to ensure pools are maintained even if they are not in use.
Top six tips for maintaining a healthy winter pool
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Reduce pool pump operation time to up to six hours and switch timer onto an off-peak tariff. Install a pool cover to reduce evaporation, chemical usage and protect your pool from fallen leaves. Ensure chlorine levels and pH levels are in a healthy range through regular water testing and maintenance, as this will make life easier come spring. Thoroughly clean your skimmers, filters and pool cleaning equipment. These items can be hiding bacteria. Clear the skimmer basket and remove debris from the pool’s surface every week. Consult a pool technician for a winter maintenance schedule suited to your pool.