How to Prepare Your Gilbert, Arizona Pool for Winter
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

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!

More Articles About Pool Care

Above Ground Pool, Acid Wash, Arizona Pool for Winter, Arizona Pools, Green Pool, Pool Care, Pool Chemicals, Pool Cleaning, Pool Draining, Pool Filter, Pool Problems, Pool Pump Repair, Pool Pump Timer, Swimming Pool
, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
0
How to Prepare Your Gilbert, Arizona Pool for Winter
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

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

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!

More Articles About Pool Care

Above Ground Pool, Acid Wash, Arizona Pools, Green Pool, Pool Care, Pool Chemicals, Pool Cleaning, Pool Draining, Pool Filter, Pool Problems, Pool Pump Repair, Pool Pump Timer, Swimming Pool
, , , , ,
0
How to Prepare Your Gilbert, Arizona Pool for Winter
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

Maintaining A Swimming Pool in Arizona Winters

Maintaining a swimming pool during the winter in Arizona involves less intensive care than during the summer, thanks to milder weather. However, it’s important to take certain steps to ensure your pool stays clean and damage-free:

1. Adjust Pool Maintenance Schedule

  • Reduced Cleaning Frequency: Since pools see less use in the winter and debris is minimal, you can reduce cleaning to once a week.
  • Skim and Brush: Remove leaves and debris regularly and brush the pool walls to prevent algae buildup.

2. Balance Water Chemistry

  • Test Water Weekly: Ensure pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness are within proper ranges to prevent scaling or corrosion.
  • Monitor Chlorine Levels: Lower chlorine demand during winter means you can reduce usage slightly, but it’s still important to prevent algae.
    • pH Range: 7.2–7.8.
    • Chlorine: 1–3 ppm.

3. Adjust Pump Schedule

  • Shorter Run Times: Reduce the pump runtime to 4–6 hours per day since the water circulates slower in cooler temperatures. This saves energy while maintaining circulation.
  • Freeze Protection (if applicable): Ensure your system has freeze protection to prevent the pipes from freezing on unusually cold nights.

4. Use a Pool Cover

  • Cover the Pool: A cover reduces evaporation, keeps debris out, and maintains heat. In Arizona’s milder winters, this can also save water and chemicals.
  • Solar Covers: These can help retain heat for occasional use without requiring a heater.

5. Monitor Pool Equipment

  • Inspect Filters and Pumps: Ensure all equipment is clean and functioning. Look for signs of wear or leaks.
  • Winterize Water Features: If you have waterfalls or fountains, consider draining or turning them off if temperatures dip below freezing.

6. Lower Pool Heater Usage

  • Heating Costs: If you’re not using the pool, turn off the heater to save on energy bills.
  • Occasional Heating: If the pool is used during winter, maintain a comfortable water temperature of around 78°F to 82°F.

7. Check for Freezing Risks

  • Unusual Freezing Events: While rare in Arizona, extremely cold nights can occur. Keep pumps running during these times to prevent pipes from freezing.

8. Shock the Pool Occasionally

  • Apply a shock treatment every 4–6 weeks to maintain water clarity and prevent algae growth.

By staying consistent with these steps, you’ll ensure your pool stays in great shape and is ready for spring!

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!

More Articles About Pool Care

Pool Care
, , , , ,
0
How to Prepare Your Gilbert, Arizona Pool for Winter
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

Weekly Pool Maintenance Ideas

How to Prepare Your Gilbert, Arizona Pool for Winter
Routine pool maintenance is crucial in keeping a pool healthy. This article will provide you with checklists and instructions for pool maintenance tasks.

Weekly pool maintenance is crucial to keep your pool water clean, clear, and safe for swimming. Regular maintenance helps prevent issues such as algae growth, cloudy water, and the buildup of debris. Here is a general guide to weekly pool maintenance tasks:

  1. Skim the Surface:
    • Use a skimmer net to remove leaves, debris, and any floating objects from the water’s surface. This helps prevent the debris from sinking to the bottom and causing water quality issues.
  2. Empty Skimmer and Pump Baskets:
    • Clean out the skimmer basket and pump basket to ensure proper water flow and circulation. This helps the filtration system operate efficiently.
  3. Brush the Walls and Floor:
    • Use a pool brush to scrub the walls and floor of the pool to prevent the buildup of algae and other contaminants. Pay attention to areas with low circulation, such as steps and corners.
  4. Vacuum the Pool:
    • Depending on the pool type, use a manual vacuum or an automatic pool cleaner to remove debris and sediment from the pool floor. Vacuuming helps maintain water clarity and cleanliness.
  5. Check and Adjust Water Chemistry:
    • Test the pool water using a test kit to check the pH, chlorine levels, alkalinity, and calcium hardness. Adjust the chemical levels as needed to maintain proper water balance. Ideal levels are:
      • pH: 7.2 to 7.6
      • Free chlorine: 1.0 to 3.0 ppm
      • Total alkalinity: 80 to 120 ppm
      • Calcium hardness: 200 to 400 ppm
  6. Shock the Pool:
    • Regularly shock the pool with a chlorine shock treatment to kill bacteria, break down contaminants, and eliminate chloramines. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate shock treatment for your pool size.
  7. Inspect the Pool Equipment:
    • Check the pool equipment, including the pump, filter, and heater, for any signs of damage or leaks. Ensure that all equipment is functioning properly.
  8. Monitor Water Level:
    • Maintain the appropriate water level in the pool. If the water level is too low, it can strain the pump, potentially causing damage. If it’s too high, skimmers may not function effectively.
  9. Backwash the Filter:
    • If you have a sand or DE (diatomaceous earth) filter, backwash it to remove trapped debris and maintain optimal filtration. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for backwashing.
  10. Inspect and Clean the Pool Deck:
    • Check the pool deck for any debris or hazards. Clean the deck and surrounding areas to prevent dirt and debris from entering the pool.
  11. Inspect Pool Cover:
    • If you have a pool cover, inspect it for damage and clean it if necessary. A clean cover helps prevent debris from entering the pool.
  12. Keep an Eye on Water Level:
    • Ensure that the water level in the pool is maintained at the appropriate level. Add water if needed to prevent damage to the pump and skimmer.

Remember that the specific tasks may vary based on factors such as the pool type, climate, and local conditions. Regular, proactive maintenance is key to preventing larger issues and ensuring a clean and enjoyable swimming experience.

Pool Cleaning

Even though you may already possess tools like pool brushes, vacuums and skimmer nets, you will still need to physically clean the pool. The pool water needs to be skimmed for any debris, plus the surface should be brushed to prevent algae growth. The bottom of the pool should be vacuumed to pick up any debris that may be present. Automated pool cleaning systems can ease the burden of pool owners, but regular skimming and brushing are still necessary.

Water Circulation

Good water circulation can make life very difficult for algae and other contaminants. Pool pumps and filter systems can keep the pool water from becoming stagnant and promoting algae growth. Pool pumps should always run from 10-12 hours per day. The more the water circulates, the cleaner the water will be, overall. Backwashing your filter when the pressure is high will help improve circulation, as well.

Water Chemistry

Maintaining the proper water chemical balance is just as important as any physical cleaning tasks. The word balance is especially important, since dumping lots of chemicals into the pool will not be effective. The pH of any pool water should be between 7.4-7.6. The alkalinity, meanwhile, should be between 80-120 ppm. Sanitizer levels will differ based on applicable codes and pool types. Shocking the pool at night will certainly aid the circulation process.

Weekly Maintenance Checklist

  • Check the water for clarity/color change.
  • Remove any debris from the pool area.
  • Empty skimmer and pump strainer baskets.
  • Vacuum pool or run pool cleaner.
  • Check filter pressure and backwash.
  • Check water level.
  • Test the salt concentration level.
  • Test the free chlorine level.
  • Test the pH level, adjust if necessary.

Monthly Maintenance Checklist

  • Test the Total Alkalinity (TA).
  • Test the Stabilizer or Cyanuric Acid level.
  • Test the Total Dissolved Solids level.
  • Test the Calcium Hardness level.
  • Test to see if hard materials are present, such as copper or iron.

Yearly Maintenance Checklist

  • Perform proper closing or winterizing steps, if needed.
  • Clean the salt cell and store inside.
  • Perform proper opening steps in the spring.

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!

More Articles About Pool Care

Pool Care
, , , , ,
0
How to Prepare Your Gilbert, Arizona Pool for Winter
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

Pool Maintenance For Beginners

How to Prepare Your Gilbert, Arizona Pool for Winter
Routine pool maintenance is crucial in keeping a pool healthy. This article will provide you with checklists and instructions for pool maintenance tasks.

Pool Cleaning

Even though you may already possess tools like pool brushes, vacuums and skimmer nets, you will still need to physically clean the pool. The pool water needs to be skimmed for any debris, plus the surface should be brushed to prevent algae growth. The bottom of the pool should be vacuumed to pick up any debris that may be present. Automated pool cleaning systems can ease the burden of pool owners, but regular skimming and brushing are still necessary.

Water Circulation

Good water circulation can make life very difficult for algae and other contaminants. Pool pumps and filter systems can keep the pool water from becoming stagnant and promoting algae growth. Pool pumps should always run from 10-12 hours per day. The more the water circulates, the cleaner the water will be, overall. Backwashing your filter when the pressure is high will help improve circulation, as well.

Water Chemistry

Maintaining the proper water chemical balance is just as important as any physical cleaning tasks. The word balance is especially important, since dumping lots of chemicals into the pool will not be effective. The pH of any pool water should be between 7.4-7.6. The alkalinity, meanwhile, should be between 80-120 ppm. Sanitizer levels will differ based on applicable codes and pool types. Shocking the pool at night will certainly aid the circulation process.

Weekly Maintenance Checklist

  • Check the water for clarity/color change.
  • Remove any debris from the pool area.
  • Empty skimmer and pump strainer baskets.
  • Vacuum pool or run pool cleaner.
  • Check filter pressure and backwash.
  • Check water level.
  • Test the salt concentration level.
  • Test the free chlorine level.
  • Test the pH level, adjust if necessary.

Monthly Maintenance Checklist

  • Test the Total Alkalinity (TA).
  • Test the Stabilizer or Cyanuric Acid level.
  • Test the Total Dissolved Solids level.
  • Test the Calcium Hardness level.
  • Test to see if hard materials are present, such as copper or iron.

Yearly Maintenance Checklist

  • Perform proper closing or winterizing steps, if needed.
  • Clean the salt cell and store inside.
  • Perform proper opening steps in the spring.

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!

More Articles About Pool Care

Pool Care
, , , , ,
0

Copyright © 2025 Pool Service Gilbert. All Rights Reserved.

Website Design, Hosting, Maintenance & SEO by WebTechs.Net.