For many homeowners, October is when the pool season starts to wind down. The days are shorter, the water is cooler and it is time to start thinking about closing the pool.
It can be tempting to treat the pool closing as a simple end-of-season chore. But proper winterization is important. A pool that is not prepared correctly for freezing temperatures can suffer damage to its plumbing, pumps, filters and other equipment. In some cases, you may not discover the problem until spring, when you’re ready to open the pool again.
Take the Time to Close Your Pool Properly
Every pool and equipment setup is different, so working with a local pool professional is a good way to make sure everything is prepared properly for the winter.
A professional can help make sure the water is properly balanced and that the plumbing, pumps, filters and other equipment are prepared for freezing temperatures. The pool cover should also be properly installed and secured.
Once the pool is closed, don’t forget to keep an eye on the cover throughout the winter. Heavy rain, snow and ice can add significant weight to the cover and put stress on the cover or pool structure. Many pools have an automatic cover pump to remove excess water, but pumps can fail or may not be able to keep up with accumulation during periods of heavy precipitation or rapid snowfall. Safely clearing excess water and snow as needed can help reduce the risk of damage.
Taking care of these details now can help avoid costly repairs later and, just as importantly, help you get back to enjoying your pool when the next swimming season arrives.
While You’re Outside, Look Around
Once the pool is ready for winter, take a few minutes to look at the rest of your property. October is a good time to winterize outdoor faucets and irrigation systems, clean gutters and downspouts, and check your roof and exterior for areas that may need attention. Look over trees for dead or damaged branches, particularly those near the house, pool or other structures.
If you have an outdoor kitchen, furniture, grill or other equipment, make sure everything is cleaned, stored or protected as recommended for the winter.
These may seem like small tasks, but taking care of them before freezing temperatures, snow and ice arrive can help prevent bigger problems later.
Don’t Forget Your Insurance
Fall is also a good time to take another look at your homeowners insurance. If you have added a pool, patio, outdoor kitchen or other improvements since your last review, make sure your coverage reflects those investments.
At AssetSure Group, we look at more than the policy itself. We take the time to understand your home, your property and the investments you’ve made so we can help identify potential gaps and make sure your coverage keeps pace with your life.
A little preparation now can go a long way. Close the pool properly, take care of the rest of the property and make sure your insurance is ready for the home you have today.
To review your homeowners insurance, contact AssetSure Group’s Personal Lines team at (888) 222-7476 ext. 290.
