Cold weather doesn’t put a year‑round pool on pause—it rewrites the playbook. We walk through the real rules of winter care for open pools in warmer regions, showing you how to keep water clear, equipment safe, and surfaces protected when temperatures drop. From algae myths to smarter chemistry, you’ll get a practical framework you can use the same day.
First, we tackle the big misconception: cold water doesn’t kill algae, it only slows it. That’s why a steady 3–5 ppm chlorine residual still matters, especially if you fire up an attached spa for winter soaks. We explain how to prevent cloudy water and organic stains from leaves, bugs, and runoff, and we share a simple routine for skimming, vacuuming, and keeping your cleaner productive when debris spikes.
Next, we dig into chemistry that actually changes with temperature. Using the Langelier Saturation Index, we show why cooler water allows a higher pH target—often 7.8 to 8.0—to avoid corrosive conditions. You’ll learn when to dose acid lightly, how to balance alkalinity and calcium hardness, and why small adjustments protect plaster and metal components. We also cut through pump confusion: yes, you can run the system less than in summer, but not zero. A thoughtful 5–6 hour schedule maintains circulation, filtration, and cleaner coverage without wasting energy.
• definition of winterizing versus year‑round care
• why algae slows but still survives in cold water
• maintaining sanitizer for clarity and spa safety
• increased debris load and stain prevention
• adjusting pH and LSI targets in cold water
• essential pump runtime for circulation and cleaning
• practical gear tips for cold mornings
• client education and winter service value
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