How to Care for Your Above Ground Swimming Pool in the Fall

As the leaves start to turn and the air grows cooler, it can only mean one thing: fall is here. While the summer season may be coming to a close, it doesn’t mean your above ground swimming pool should be neglected. In fact, proper care during the fall can extend the life of your pool and make it easier to enjoy next summer. Join us as we share some essential tips on how to care for your above ground swimming pool this autumn.

1. Keep Your Swimming Pool Clean

Leaves, twigs, and other debris tend to accumulate in and around your pool during the fall months. To prevent this debris from clogging your filter and affecting water quality, make sure to skim the surface regularly. You can also invest in a pool cover to keep the majority of leaves out, making your job easier.

2. Maintain Water Chemistry

Maintaining proper water chemistry is crucial to prevent algae growth and protect your pool’s surfaces. Test your pool water regularly and adjust the pH, chlorine, and alkalinity levels as needed. While you may not be swimming as often in the fall, keeping the water balanced will make spring pool opening a breeze.

3. Reduce the Water Level

As the temperatures drop, you’ll want to lower your pool water level slightly. This helps to prevent freeze damage to your pool’s white goods and equipment. Just be sure not to drain it too much—about 6 inches below the eyeball return fitting is sufficient. 

4. Winterize Your Equipment

Before the frosty weather sets in, it’s essential to winterize your pool equipment. This includes draining and storing hoses and pumps, removing and cleaning filters, and blowing out any water from lines and equipment to prevent freezing. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific equipment or see your authorized Doughboy dealer to ensure proper winterization.

5. Protect Your Pool Liner

The pool liner is one of the most critical components of your above ground swimming pool. To protect it during the winter, you can use an air pillow to prevent your winter cover from sinking into the pool and causing strain on your liner. Additionally, a winter cover specially designed for above ground pools will help keep debris out and maintain the water’s cleanliness.

6. Regularly Check for Damage

As the season progresses, periodically inspect your swimming pool for any signs of damage. Look for tears or holes in the pool liner, loose or damaged fittings, and any rust on the pool frame. Catching and addressing these issues early can save you time and money in the long run.

7. Prepare for Winter Storms

Fall often brings unpredictable weather, including storms that can damage your pool. As winter sets in, be sure to secure your pool cover properly, remove any heavy snow accumulation, and trim any nearby tree branches that could pose a threat to your pool.

8. Keep an Eye on Water Temperature

If you live in an area where temperatures drop significantly, monitor the water temperature. When it consistently falls below 60°F (15°C), it’s time to stop running the filter and consider adding winterizing chemicals to the pool.

9. Plan Ahead for Spring Opening

Finally, while you’re taking care of your pool in the fall, start thinking about your pool’s spring reopening. Make a checklist of the tasks you’ll need to complete, like cleaning the pool, refilling it, and balancing the water chemistry.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your Doughboy® above ground swimming pool remains in excellent condition throughout the fall and winter months, ready to provide hours of enjoyment when the warm weather returns. Remember that proper maintenance during the off-season not only preserves your pool but also saves you time and effort in the long run.

If you have any questions or need further guidance on caring for your Doughboy pool this fall, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local authorized Doughboy dealer. Let’s make the most of your above ground swimming pool all year round.