Protect Your Pool Pipes During Winter & Other Wonderful Ways to Use a Pool Noodle!

 

Pool noodles are surprisingly versatile tools that extend well beyond poolside fun. These foam tubes are not just ideal for floating or playful sibling tussles but also serve a multitude of purposes in DIY home projects. As Christmas approaches, we’ll explore some of the most innovative ways to incorporate these handy tools into your home decor and more!

Below are some cleaver uses for pool noodles:

·         Insulate Pool Pipes: In freezing weather, exposed pipes, particularly those connected to your pool pump and filter, are vulnerable to damage. Protect them by slicing a pool noodle lengthwise and wrapping it around the pipe, securing it with duct tape or zip ties. For extra insulation, consider adding layers of bubble wrap or additional foam.

 

·         Organize Extension Cords: Avoid tangles by cutting a slit in a pool noodle and sliding the cords inside. This keeps them organized and clutter-free.

 

·         Create a Holiday Wreath: Use a pool noodle as the base for a custom wreath. Bend the noodle into a circle, secure it with duct tape, and embellish it with seasonal decorations like garland, ornaments, and faux flowers.

 

·         Childproof Sharp Edges: When young children visit, use pool noodles to cushion the edges of coffee tables, fireplaces, and other sharp corners, creating a safer environment.

 

·         Boot Shapers: Keep your boots upright and in good shape by inserting a section of pool noodle into each boot. Cover them with scrap fabric and tie a bow for easy removal.

 

·         Paint Tray Helper: Cut a pool noodle to fit the width of your paint tray. Slice it lengthwise and attach it to the tray’s back edge to create a holder for brushes and other painting tools.

 

·         Door Safety: Wrap a pool noodle around a door to prevent it from slamming, protect fingers, or keep it slightly ajar.

 

·         Garage Wall Protector: Prevent car door dings and scratches by attaching a pool noodle to the garage wall with strong adhesive or screws where the door might hit.

 

·         Clothing Care: Insert pool noodles into hangers to prevent creases on garments or use them on drying racks.

 

·         Trampoline Safety: Cover exposed trampoline springs with pool noodles cut to size, choosing various colors for added fun and safety.

Pool noodles consist of polyethylene, a closed-cell foam filled with numerous tiny, compressed bubbles. This unique structure prevents water absorption, making them perfect for buoyant, flexible pool toys. This foam is also used in packaging and as pipe insulation, resembling the material of pool noodles. Although challenging to recycle, pool noodles can be repurposed in various ways throughout your home and garage.

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Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or email us for a free estimate.

When is the Best Time of Year to Drain and Refill a Pool?

 

Maintaining your pool with routine care is crucial for keeping it clean, safe, and enjoyable. Regular water testing and balance are key, but sometimes, chemicals alone can't correct water issues. In such cases, draining and refilling the pool becomes necessary. It’s important to know the optimal time to perform this task to avoid damage and expensive repairs. Read on to understand why and when pool draining is needed, the risks involved, and the best timing for it.

To Drain or Not to Drain?

Draining a pool might seem straightforward, but it carries risks and can cause significant damage if not done properly. Here are two main reasons you might need to drain your pool:

1. Poor Water Quality: Issues like high levels of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Cyanuric Acid (CYA), or Calcium Hardness can degrade water quality. If TDS levels surpass 2,500 ppm, it becomes difficult to balance the water, requiring a drain and refill. Similarly, excessive CYA or Calcium Hardness can disrupt water chemistry, sometimes necessitating a complete pool drain.

2. Maintenance and Repairs: Draining may also be necessary for removing stains, scale, or algae on pool surfaces that can’t be treated with the water in. Acid washing, for instance, requires an empty pool to effectively remove these blemishes. Additionally, structural repairs like fixing cracks or resurfacing necessitate draining the pool to access and fix the issues properly.

Optimal Timing for Draining and Refilling Your Pool

The ideal times to drain and refill your pool are during the spring or fall. These seasons provide mild weather, reduced risk of storms, and ample time to complete the process before harsh conditions arise. Draining in the spring prepares your pool for the summer swimming season.

Times to Avoid Draining Your Pool:

• After Heavy Rain: Avoid draining after significant rainfall, as the increased water table can exert pressure that may cause an empty pool to shift or "pop out" of the ground.
• Before Water Rates are Calculated: Most states calculate annual water rates in the first three months of the year; draining your pool just before this period can unexpectedly increase your costs.

By choosing the right time to drain and refill your pool, you can ensure it remains in top condition while avoiding unnecessary complications and expenses.

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Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or email us for a free estimate.

 

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Preparing Your Inground Pool for Winter

 

As summer fades and the cooler air of autumn arrives, it's time to start thinking about closing your inground pool for the winter. Properly winterizing your pool not only protects it from damage due to freezing temperatures but also makes your spring opening much easier. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you securely close your pool for the season.

Balance the Water Chemistry

About a week before you plan to close your pool, adjust the pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels. This step is crucial to protect the pool surface and equipment during the winter. Ideal levels should be:

• pH: 7.2 - 7.6
• Alkalinity: 80 - 120 ppm
• Calcium Hardness: 180 - 220 ppm

Clean the Pool

Remove any leaves, dirt, and debris from the water. Scrub the sides and bottom of the pool to prevent algae growth and stains. Ensure that the pool is as clean as possible to reduce the workload when it's time to reopen.

Lower the Water Level

Lower the water level below the skimmer or according to the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific pool type. This step is important to prevent water from entering the skimmer line and freezing.

Add Winterizing Chemicals

Add winterizing chemicals to help keep the water clear and free from algae during the off-season. These typically include an algaecide and a winterizing pool shock. Follow the manufacturer's directions for the correct amounts based on your pool's volume.

Circulate the Chemicals

Run the pool’s pump for at least 24 hours to circulate the new chemicals thoroughly. This ensures that the chemicals are evenly distributed throughout the pool.

Drain and Store the Equipment

Drain all pumping, filtering, heating, and chlorinating equipment. This includes hoses, pumps, filters, heaters, and chemical feeders. Dry and store them in a dry place to prevent any damage during the winter.

Blow Out the Lines

To prevent freezing and cracking, blow out the water from the plumbing lines using a compressor or shop vac. Seal the lines using expansion plugs or other appropriate methods to keep water out.

Cover Your Pool

Install a quality winter pool cover to keep out debris and reduce the possibility of algae growth. Make sure the cover fits securely and is weighted down or tightly sealed around the edges to prevent it from blowing away or allowing debris to enter.

Regular Checks

Throughout the winter, periodically check on your pool cover and the area around the pool. Remove any accumulated water or snow from the top of the cover to prevent stretching or damage. Also, ensure that the cover remains secure and adjust if necessary.

Closing your inground pool for the winter is an essential maintenance step that can prevent costly repairs and ensure your pool remains in good condition when spring arrives. By following these steps, you can rest assured that your pool will be well-protected against the harsh winter elements. Remember, taking the time to close your pool properly can save a significant amount of time and effort when it's time to dive back in the following summer.

If you’re considering restoration work for your inground pool, now is good time to plan! Contact the experts at Pound Pool Plastering today!

Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or email us for a free estimate.

 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com