Winterize pools and spas to protect them during chilly and wet weather

Saul Rozema, owner of Sonoma Pool and Spa, scooping fallen leaves from the bottom of a pool.
Photo by Ryan Lely/sonoma valley sun

Pools and spas are a huge investment and the maintenance of them shouldn’t be ignored just because they’re getting little use. It’s oh-so-easy to forget about switching seasonal gears when the toasty days that once afforded heavy use have yielded to the fluctuating temperatures of autumn, when those vessels of water get scarce attention. The glimmer of hope that it will become warm enough to take one last dip in the pool is rapidly fading away.
Now is the time to consider taking a few important steps that will protect your pool from damage this winter. They actions may even save you some money. According to Saul Rozema, who has owned Sonoma Pool and Spa for about four years, there are a few things pool owners should do right now.
Rozema suggests significantly reducing filtration run times during cooler months. He recommends running filters at night, because it is more difficult for water to freeze when it is kept in motion. Also, this cuts down the risk of pipes bursting and equipment failure.
Rozema warns folks never to drain a pool in our area, because of the pressure created by ground water. He said that pools can literally pop out of the ground and float just like a boat.
Pool covers are an effective way to protect pools during the winter, as well as all year long. Rozema stated that a well-made pool cover will retain heat in the summer and virtually eliminate evaporation.
“If you ever see ice formation on the surface of the pool, break ice immediately, and be sure your equipment is running,” Rozema said. “Watching the weather reports for a potential freeze, is an easy way to be proactive in protecting your investment. This applies to not only your pool equipment, but to irrigation lines and home plumbing as well.”
To protect pool plumbing from extreme weather, Rozema suggested wrapping exposed pipes in old blankets or insulation. He said that this will greatly reduce problems caused by freezing weather. To avoid a fire hazard, he advises never covering a pump motor.
Outdoor spas are designed to offer year-round heated relaxation. Rozema reminds everyone that even during times of infrequent use, spa owners need to keep up their weekly maintenance. He urges folks to drain their spas at least every four months and more often when their use increases.
Rozema recommended using a mineral purifier and a shock treatment, in conjunction with an ozone system. He explained that this is the best way to keep a spa and its bathers happy. There are many options available, but Rozema said that this is how he personally maintains his spa and recommends to all his customers.
“You should absolutely drain spas and cover them up when not in use,” Rozema stressed. “Although I do not recommend having spas shut down for longer than a few months at a time. Murphy’s Law indicates that when equipment, such as a spa motor, is not used regularly, it tends to seize up.”
Rozema and his wife Jolie, both born and raised Sonoma, started Sonoma Valley Pool and Spa in 2003, after working several years in the pool industry. . He had been in the pool industry for many years. With their two children — six-year-old St. Francis first-grader Tanner and two-year-old Avery — the Tanners enjoy spending quality time together, traveling and playing sports.

Sonoma Valley Pool and Spa offers a wide variety of maintenance rates, starting at $85 for monthly chemical service. They can be reached at 707.996.2082 or at www.sonomavalleypool.com. The Web site offers product information, pool and spa advice and service pricing.