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How to Prepare Your Gilbert, Arizona Pool for Winter

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Written by webtechs

13 October 2025

How to Prepare Your Gilbert, Arizona Pool for Winter

In Gilbert, Arizona, where the weather is usually sunny, winter may not bring snowdrifts or ice storms, but it does bring chilly evenings, windy afternoons, and months when your pool won’t get much use. In warmer regions, closing your pool for the winter is not enough; you need to maintain your investment and make sure that first spring swim is clear, not hazy and green. This is a helpful method to getting your Gilbert pool ready for winter without too much trouble.

1. Good Cleaning!

Before you even think about changing the chemicals or water levels, you should clean your pool well. Sweep the floor, vacuum it, and brush the walls. Pay close attention to corners and steps, where dirt and debris tend to build up. This is the moment to get rid of any calcium or algae patches that won’t go away. It’s much easier to keep a pool clean in the winter if it’s already clean.

2. Even Out The Water

Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean water chemistry stops. Before the weather becomes cold, test and balance the water in your pool. You’ll need:

pH: 7.4–7.6

Alkalinity: 80–120 parts per million

200–400 ppm of calcium hardness

Chlorine: 1 to 3 parts per million

During the cooler months, the right mix can help keep stains, rust, and scale from building up. Your local pool service in Gilbert can test and adjust the chemical levels for you if you’re not sure what they are.

3. Change The Water Level

You don’t have to drain your pool below the skimmer line for winter like you do in colder states. It’s really best to keep it full so that the plaster doesn’t get too much sun and crack. Just be sure that your drainage and overflow systems are working well enough to manage the winter rains.

4. Equipment Check-Up

You can use your pump less often when the weather is cooler since there is less evaporation and algae formation. In the winter, four to six hours is usually plenty instead of eight hours a day. If you have a heater, clear out the skimmer and pump baskets, backwash the filter, and check the heater before you change the settings. It’s also a good opportunity to have professionals check your equipment in the winter. Finding little leaks or damaged seals now can save you a lot of money later.

5. Hide It

A sturdy pool cover keeps away dust, leaves, and the odd animal that wanders in. Gilbert’s winter weather is so windy that even small amounts of material can leave stains or block your filtration system. Pick a cover that fits properly and lets air through to stop algae from growing and make it easy to open in the spring.

6. Watch It

Your pool still needs some care, even while it’s in “winter mode.” Check the water every week, clean up any trash, and make sure the pump and timer are working right. If there is a frost warning, it is also a good idea to operate your system on the coldest nights. Moving water is less likely to freeze and hurt pipes.

Last Splash

Getting your Gilbert pool ready for winter is more about wise care than hibernation. You can spare yourself weeks of cleanup when the desert sun comes back by spending a few hours now. If you’d rather relax than balance chemicals, just call the specialists at Gilbert Pool Service. They’ll keep your pool clean all year long.

Pool Maintenance In Gilbert, AZ

Pool Service Gilbert is a family-owned and operated business that has been serving the valley since 2004. We offer reliable and affordable pool services, including repairs, equipment installations and more! Our service area includes Ahwatukee, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Phoenix and Tempe, Arizona. Contact us right here for your upcoming pool service needs!

Average Pool Size In Gallons

The average pool size in gallons depends on the type and shape of the pool. Here’s a quick breakdown:

🏊‍♂️ Residential Inground Pools (Standard Size)

Average size: 15 ft x 30 ft, 5 ft average depth
Volume: ~16,000 to 20,000 gallons

🏊 Above-Ground Pools

Average size: 24 ft round, 4 ft deep
Volume: ~13,500 gallons

📏 General Formula (for rectangles):

To estimate gallons:

(There are 7.5 gallons in a cubic foot of water.)

💡 Quick Examples:

Pool Shape	Dimensions	Average Gallons
Small Rectangular	10′ x 20′ x 4′	~6,000 gallons
Medium Rectangular	15′ x 30′ x 5′	~16,875 gallons
Large Rectangular	20′ x 40′ x 6′	~36,000 gallons
Round (24 ft diameter, 4 ft deep)	–	~13,500 gallons
Kidney or Freeform	Varies	15,000–25,000 gallons

Pool Service Gilbert

Pool Service Gilbert is a family-owned and operated business that has been serving the valley since 2004. We offer reliable and affordable pool services, including cleaning, replacement, repairs, equipment installations and more! Our service area includes Ahwatukee, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Phoenix and Tempe, Arizona. Contact us right here for your upcoming pool service needs!

Maintaining A Swimming Pool in Arizona Summers

Maintaining a swimming pool during the scorching Arizona summer requires consistent care and specific strategies to deal with high temperatures, intense UV rays, and dust. Here’s a practical guide to keep your pool sparkling, safe, and enjoyable all season long.

🌞 Challenges Unique to Arizona Summers

Extreme heat (100°F+ daily)
Evaporation causing water loss
High UV exposure degrading chlorine faster
Monsoon dust storms introducing debris and contaminants
Hard water leading to scale buildup

✅ Weekly Pool Maintenance Checklist

🧪 1. Test and Balance Water Chemistry (2–3x/week)

Chlorine: 2–4 ppm (use stabilized chlorine)
pH: 7.4–7.6
Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm
Calcium hardness: 200–400 ppm (Arizona water is hard!)
Cyanuric acid (stabilizer): 30–50 ppm
Use a test kit or test strips, and adjust as needed with pool chemicals.

💦 2. Manage Water Levels

Check 1–2 times per week.
Water evaporates rapidly in Arizona; maintain mid-skimmer level.
Use auto-fill systems if possible, or top off manually.

🧹 3. Skim, Brush, and Vacuum

Skim surface daily to remove leaves, bugs, and dust.
Brush walls and steps weekly to prevent algae.
Vacuum or use a pool robot at least once a week.

🧼 4. Clean Pool Filter

Cartridge filters: Clean every 2–4 weeks.
Sand filters: Backwash every 2–3 weeks.
DE filters: Backwash and recharge DE powder monthly.
Dust storms clog filters quickly—inspect after every storm.

🔄 5. Run the Pump Long Enough

In summer, run pump 8–12 hours/day to ensure proper circulation and chlorination.
Best time: Early morning or at night to reduce evaporation and power costs.

⚠️ 6. Shock Pool After Heavy Use or Storms

Shock weekly during summer or after:
- A pool party
- A storm
- Signs of algae/cloudy water

🧊 7. Consider a UV or Ozone System

Arizona sun depletes chlorine fast. A UV sanitizer or ozone system helps reduce chlorine demand and boost sanitation.

💡 Extra Arizona Pool Care Tips

Issue	Solution
Algae growth	Maintain chlorine, brush often, keep pool covered when not in use
Scaling	Use a sequestering agent to reduce calcium scaling
Debris from monsoons	Use a leaf net, keep skimmer baskets clean, consider installing a pool cover
Sun damage	Add a pool cover or use chlorine stabilizer (CYA) to protect chlorine from UV breakdown

🛠️ Seasonal Prep (Before/After Summer)

Inspect pool equipment (pump, filter, valves, skimmers)
Check for cracks or leaks
Schedule a professional water test and system tune-up

Is Arizona Summer Time A Good Time For A Swimming Pool Upgrade?

Arizona summer can be a good time to upgrade a swimming pool, but with a few key considerations.

✅ **Why Summer Can Be a Good Time for Pool Upgrades**

☀️ 1. Peak Use = Faster ROI

If you’re planning to upgrade lighting, automation, decking, or features, you’ll get immediate enjoyment during pool season.
Great for resale if you’re listing in late summer or fall.

🏗️ 2. Contractor Availability for Small Upgrades

While full builds may be booked, minor upgrades (tile, equipment replacement, automation, resurfacing) are often more feasible and faster to schedule.

💧 3. Real-Time Testing

You can test out new systems (filters, heaters, lighting, smart controls) under real conditions, ensuring performance before the off-season.

⚠️ Challenges of Summer Pool Upgrades in Arizona

🔥 1. Extreme Heat

Contractors may limit work hours or take longer due to high temps (100°F+).
Concrete, plaster, and decking upgrades must be carefully timed to avoid cracking or rapid curing issues.

🌀 2. Monsoon Season (July–September)

Sudden dust storms and rain can delay work or contaminate freshly poured surfaces or open plumbing.

🧾 3. Higher Demand = Higher Prices

It’s peak swimming season, so demand for pool pros can drive up prices.
Scheduling may be more competitive, especially for high-end work.

💡 What Kinds of Upgrades Work Well in Summer?

Upgrade Type	Suitability for Summer
LED lighting	✅ Quick install, usable right away
Smart pool controls	✅ No disruption, good ROI
New pump/filter	✅ Improves water quality quickly
Tile & coping repair	✅ Small jobs doable in hot weather
Deck resurfacing (e.g., Kool Deck)	⚠️ Time-sensitive but feasible
Full resurfacing (plaster or PebbleTec)	⚠️ Can be done, but timing is key
Structural remodels or re-plumbing	❌ Better suited for off-season (Oct–March)

🧭 Final Advice

If you’re considering an upgrade:

Plan work early in the day or off-peak weeks (before monsoon season in July).
Use licensed Arizona contractors familiar with working in extreme heat.
Get quotes from multiple professionals, and ask about heat-adaptive materials.

Pool Maintenance In Gilbert, AZ

Standard Pool Size in Gilbert, AZ

The standard home swimming pool size varies based on space, budget, and intended use (recreation, exercise, or entertaining). Here are common dimensions:

🏊‍♂️ Standard Home Pool Sizes

Type	Common Dimensions (L x W x D)	Purpose
Rectangular Pool	10′ x 20′, 15′ x 30′, or 20′ x 40′	Lap swimming, versatility
Kidney-Shaped Pool	16′ x 32′ or 18′ x 36′	Aesthetic, general use
Plunge Pool	6′ x 10′ to 8′ x 20′	Relaxation, small spaces
Lap Pool	8′ x 40′ or 10′ x 50′	Fitness, swimming laps
Freeform Pool	15′ x 30′ to 20′ x 40′ (varied)	Custom shape, landscaping

💡 Depth Guidelines

Shallow End: 3.5–4 feet
Deep End: 6–8 feet (if diving is allowed, ≥8 ft is safer)

Pool Service Gilbert

Average Pool Cost In Arizona 2024

Pool Service Phoenix

What Size Sand Filter Do I Need?

How To Clean Pool Tile With Vinegar

The size of the sand filter you need for your swimming pool depends on several factors, including the pool’s size, flow rate, and the specific requirements of your filtration system. Sand filters are commonly used for residential pools and are available in various sizes. Here’s how to determine the appropriate size for your pool:

Calculate Pool Gallons: First, you need to calculate the total number of gallons of water in your pool. To do this, measure the pool’s length, width, and average depth (or depth at various points) in feet and use the following formula:

Pool Gallons = Length (ft) × Width (ft) × Average Depth (ft) × 7.48

This formula gives you the approximate number of gallons in your pool.
Determine Desired Flow Rate: The flow rate is the rate at which water circulates through the filter. A common guideline is to have a flow rate of 2 gallons per minute (gpm) per 10,000 gallons of pool water. You can calculate the desired flow rate as follows:

Desired Flow Rate (gpm) = (Pool Gallons / 10,000) × 2 gpm

This gives you the flow rate required for your pool.
Choose the Right Sand Filter: Sand filters are rated by their flow rate capacity, typically in gallons per minute (gpm). Choose a sand filter that can handle your calculated flow rate. It’s a good idea to select a filter with a slightly higher flow rate capacity to ensure efficient filtration.
Check the Manufacturer’s Recommendations: Always refer to the manufacturer’s specifications and recommendations for the sand filter you are considering. Manufacturers provide guidance on the filter’s maximum flow rate capacity, which should match or exceed your pool’s calculated flow rate.

Keep in mind that sand filters come in various sizes, so you’ll want to choose one that aligns with the size of your pool and the required flow rate. Additionally, consider the quality and durability of the filter, as well as any specific features that may be important to you, such as ease of maintenance.

If your pool has special features like waterfalls, fountains, or a spa, you may need a larger filter or a multi-speed pump to accommodate the additional flow requirements.

Lastly, for the best results and to ensure proper filtration, it’s essential to maintain and backwash your sand filter regularly as recommended by the manufacturer and based on the water quality and usage of your pool. Proper maintenance will help your filter operate efficiently and keep your pool water clean and clear.

Pool Service Gilbert In Arizona

Average Pool Cost In Arizona 2023

The average price to install an inground pool in Arizona is $20,656 in 2023. Costs will range from $10,863-$31,241 in Phoenix, AZ.

How Much Does A Pool Cost?

Inground pools will generally cost more to install than an above-ground pool. Above-ground models will cost anywhere from $700-$3,600. Custom pools will, of course, cost more than any other models, with prices going upwards of $100,000. Always compare quotes from local pool suppliers to receive the best deal possible.

Pool Cost Factors

The first factor that could inflate the bottom line is exactly how much it will cost for construction of the pool area. That very much depends on the type of material the installers are working with. For instance, fiberglass will cost between $20,000-$37,000, while concrete construction costs anywhere from $35,000-$65,000.

Building an above-ground pool can be considerably cheaper than an inground model. The building of the above-ground pool will run between $1,500-$15,000. The above ground pools will not add the same value to your home as an inground pool will, though. Plus most homeowners prefer the look of inground pools.

Perhaps you are still thinking about whether you should invest in a lap or endless pool. With labor costs, lap pools run between $40,000-$60,000. Endless pools tend to be much shorter than lap pools, and cost approximately $23,000-$40,000.

Inground Pool Costs In Arizona

Total costs for inground pools will very much depend on materials used for construction. These are typical prices based on material:

Concrete: $50,000-$100,000
Vinyl Liner: $25,000-$65,000
Fiberglass: $40,000-$85,000

Saltwater Vs Chlorine Pool Costs

Saltwater pools come with heavy upfront costs, including the installation of a saltwater generator. This costs between $400-$1,800. Installation fees could tack on an additional $400. Yearly salt and chemical costs could total $100. Meanwhile, chlorine pools could require up to $800 per year in chemical costs.

Pool Costs By Location

Are you looking to compare pool costs in Phoenix, Arizona to other big cities in the country? Here are a few average costs:

Miami, Florida: $17,550-$38,600
Dallas, Texas: $12,000-$28,200
New York, New York: $17,000-$33,700
San Diego, California: $15,300-$36,900
Las Vegas, Nevada: $22,300-$135,000

All average costs are according to Home Advisor.

How Much Does A Pool Cleaning Service Cost?

The average pool service costs in the Phoenix, AZ area range from $85 to $125 per month. Typically, any pool owner can expect to pay around $105 per month for cleaning services. Use this post to help determine a budget for any upcoming pool services you may need in the future.

Pool Service Phoenix

Average Pool Size Phoenix

The average pool volume can vary widely depending on the size and type of pool. Residential swimming pools come in various shapes and sizes, and their volume is typically measured in gallons or cubic meters. Here are some general guidelines for different types of residential pools:

Small Above-Ground Pools: These pools are typically the smallest and can hold anywhere from 1,000 to 5,000 gallons (3,785 to 18,927 liters) of water. The volume depends on the pool’s dimensions and depth.
Medium-Sized In-Ground Pools: A medium-sized in-ground pool, commonly found in residential settings, can have a volume of 10,000 to 20,000 gallons (37,854 to 75,708 liters). The exact volume depends on the pool’s shape, dimensions, and depth.
Large In-Ground Pools: Larger in-ground pools, often found in larger properties or luxury homes, can hold 25,000 gallons (94,635 liters) or more. Some exceptionally large pools can exceed 50,000 gallons (189,270 liters).

It’s important to note that these are general guidelines, and the actual volume of a pool can vary based on its specific dimensions and depth. To calculate the exact volume of a pool, you can use the following formula:

Volume (in gallons) = Length (in feet) × Width (in feet) × Average Depth (in feet) × 7.48052

Or, if you prefer to use meters:

Volume (in cubic meters) = Length (in meters) × Width (in meters) × Average Depth (in meters)

Remember that the average depth is used in these calculations because most residential pools have a sloped floor, with the deepest part typically in the center. To get an accurate measurement, measure the depth at several points and calculate the average.

If you’re unsure about the volume of your pool or need precise measurements for maintenance or chemical treatments, it’s a good idea to consult with a professional pool technician or use a pool volume calculator designed for this purpose.

Pool Service Gilbert

Pros and Cons of a Saltwater Pool

While salt by itself does have minor abilities of being a cleanser, making a saltwater pool is not as easy as dissolving salt in the pool and leaving it alone. Alternatively, a salt chlorine generator machine is going to convert sodium chloride, or common salt, into chlorine. Having said that, a saltwater pool indeed does contain chlorine. Contrary to a conventional chlorinated pool, nevertheless, saltwater pools create a pure form of chlorine that’s transferred in a controlled way to stop irritating byproducts referred to as chloramines. Salt is added directly to the swimming pool’s water. The pool water gets drawn into the generator, in which it passes through a salt cell. Through the cell, metal blades coated with ruthenium or iridium are electrically charged. Following electrolysis, the water that exits the generator is now chlorinated water.

Pros of Saltwater Pools

Little or no chlorine odor
Pool water has a smoother and softer feel
Lower expense for chemicals
No burning or harshness on the skin
More safe to store and work with than chlorine
Salt is typically freely available and easy to locate

Cons of Saltwater Pools

Routine replacement of salt-chlorinator electrode cell
High upfront expense of saltwater chlorine generator
Bulk salt for chlorinator is heavy, hard to store
Routing cleaning of the salt cell
Powered by electricity
Eats away metal in the pool

Benefits of Saltwater Pools

Saltwater pool users love the feel of the water because it’s silky, smooth, and soft. It feels a lot like swimming in a clean, fresh lake or possibly like swimming in the ocean, without the fishy smell and the all the sand. The pleasant feeling continues following the swim, too. Chlorinated pool users know that harsh post-swim feeling well: dried-up skin; burning eyes; oils of their hair stripped. Following a saltwater pool swim, a user’s skin can feel soft and moisturized, not dried out. Devoid of caustic chlorine, swim wear and towels last longer and retain their colors. After the chlorine generator has been installed and the pool water brought up to its quality requirements, ongoing expenses are somewhat low. Bags of 40-lb pool salt cost $5 – $20. In comparison to 40 lbs. of chlorinating tablets costing $250 to $350 annually, this is a considerable cost saving. Following setup, it’s somewhat simple to keep the pools water clean. Unlike chlorine, salt is easy to locate and is budget friendly. A lot of newer chlorine generators are managed by touch-pad panels or by apps from your tablet or phone.

Pool Service Gilbert In Arizona

How To Take Care of A Saltwater Pool

How To Take Care Of A Saltwater Pool

Do you wish you had a saltwater pool? Want to discover more concerning how to take care of a saltwater pool? You have come to the right site! Pool Service Gilbert is a trailblazer in saltwater decontamination and a professional in saltwater pool maintenance.

Maintaining a Saltwater Pool

For maintaining a saltwater pool, you should keep the pools pump, filter, and its skimmer clean and in good operating status. With these pools, you are required to go over the salt chlorinator cell and have it replaced when required. Test routinely for correct water chemistry for maintaining clean, clear pool water.

Saltwater Pool Chemistry Tips

Using a saltwater pool strip for testing, test the water for salt, pH levels, free chlorine, complete alkalinity, stabilizer, and complete hardness. Use a water chemistry calculator online for helping make those alterations and balance your pools water. After severe weather or times in which the load is higher, like at pool parties, make sure to test again to keep your pool’s water chemistry within adequate levels. After you testing your pool, balance as necessary.

6 Common Saltwater Pool Care Concerns

What’s are the differences between a saltwater pool and a conventional chlorinated one?

In a conventional pool, chlorine is added straight to the pool’s water. Progressions in the pool industry have led to a more streamlined and safer option. Saltwater chlorination is natural and a more handy sanitization method. Salt gets dissolved in the pool and the system then turns it into the perfect amount of chlorine for clear, clean, and lavishly soft water.

Is a saltwater pool maintained easier?

Absolutely, a saltwater pool is easier to take care of! There’s no need to buy, store and add chlorine to the pool. Just add salt made for pools and the pool’s salt chlorinator is going to take care of creating chlorine. Whereas all pools require chemicals to keep the pool water clean and clear, saltwater pools are more balanced than conventional chlorinated pools, so they need less chemicals.

Is a saltwater pool less costly to maintain?

Absolutely, saltwater pools have a reduced expense of operation in comparison to a conventional chlorinated pool. This cost savings is because the chlorine is created from salt and there is no need to purchase chlorine. In addition, saltwater pools require less chemicals to keep the water clear and clean.

Is a saltwater pool, well, salty?

Not a bit! In fact, your pool’s level of salinity is about 1/12 of the salinity in the ocean and a drop from a saltwater pool has less salt than found in human tears. Additionally, saltwater is soft and feels really nice on your family and guest’s skin!

How much salt does the system require?

Salt Systems work ideally with roughly thirty-two hundred parts per million (ppm) of salt, which is approximately the comparable to a teaspoon of salt per gallon. When salt levels get outside of this range, differing salt systems provide a way (usually an LED light) to signal homeowners to the need to modify their salt level.

What happens if my saltwater pool is cloudy?

Without regard to pool type, cloudy pool water is usually a sign of a chlorine insufficiency or inadequate circulation and filtration. Make sure to identify the issue by first checking your pool’s chemistry and then adjusting the chemistry as required. In saltwater pools, the salt level may be poor or there might be a problem with the pool’s salt chlorinator. Keep the filter of the pool clean and run the system so that all the water is turned over daily.

1. Good Cleaning!

2. Even Out The Water

3. Change The Water Level

4. Equipment Check-Up

5. Hide It

6. Watch It

Last Splash

Pool Maintenance In Gilbert, AZ

More Articles About Pool Care

🏊‍♂️ Residential Inground Pools (Standard Size)

🏊 Above-Ground Pools

📏 General Formula (for rectangles):

💡 Quick Examples:

Pool Service Gilbert

More Articles About Pool Care

🌞 Challenges Unique to Arizona Summers

✅ Weekly Pool Maintenance Checklist

🧪 1. Test and Balance Water Chemistry (2–3x/week)

💦 2. Manage Water Levels

🧹 3. Skim, Brush, and Vacuum

🧼 4. Clean Pool Filter

🔄 5. Run the Pump Long Enough

⚠️ 6. Shock Pool After Heavy Use or Storms

🧊 7. Consider a UV or Ozone System

💡 Extra Arizona Pool Care Tips

🛠️ Seasonal Prep (Before/After Summer)

Is Arizona Summer Time A Good Time For A Swimming Pool Upgrade?

✅ Why Summer Can Be a Good Time for Pool Upgrades

☀️ 1. Peak Use = Faster ROI

🏗️ 2. Contractor Availability for Small Upgrades

💧 3. Real-Time Testing

⚠️ Challenges of Summer Pool Upgrades in Arizona

🔥 1. Extreme Heat

🌀 2. Monsoon Season (July–September)

🧾 3. Higher Demand = Higher Prices

💡 What Kinds of Upgrades Work Well in Summer?

🧭 Final Advice

Pool Maintenance In Gilbert, AZ

More Articles About Pool Care

🏊‍♂️ Standard Home Pool Sizes

💡 Depth Guidelines

Pool Service Gilbert

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Pool Service Phoenix

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Pool Service Gilbert In Arizona

More Articles About Pool Care

How Much Does A Pool Cost?

Pool Cost Factors

Inground Pool Costs In Arizona

Saltwater Vs Chlorine Pool Costs

Pool Costs By Location

How Much Does A Pool Cleaning Service Cost?

Pool Service Phoenix

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Pool Service Gilbert

More Articles About Pool Care

Pros of Saltwater Pools

Cons of Saltwater Pools

Benefits of Saltwater Pools

Pool Service Gilbert In Arizona

More Articles About Pool Care

Maintaining a Saltwater Pool

Saltwater Pool Chemistry Tips

6 Common Saltwater Pool Care Concerns

Pool Service Gilbert In Arizona

More Articles About Pool Care

✅ **Why Summer Can Be a Good Time for Pool Upgrades**