Don’t let water quality go down the drain this pool season

Many Mississauga homes have backyard pools that need to be drained and winterized before colder weather arrives. If you’re closing your outdoor pool for the winter, it’s important to do it safely and responsibly. Prevent pool chemicals from entering waterways and harming wildlife by disposing of them the right way. This helps protect your health and our environment.

Clean and test the water

Remove leaves, grass and other debris from the water. This helps keep the water cleaner over the winter. If you have an automatic pool cleaner, remove it, drain it, let it dry and store it until next season.

Test the pool water for chlorine and pH levels. Adjust the water until the pH reaches 7.0, which is neutral. After treatment, do not add any more chemicals or algae-control products for at least seven days. Before draining any water, make sure the chlorine level is zero.

Lower the water level

Pool and spa owners must follow the City of Mississauga’s by-law when draining water. Try to drain the pool during dry weather. This helps prevent storm and sewer pipes from becoming overloaded after rainfall.

For chlorine-treated inground pools, connect a hose to a pump and make sure it reaches the curb. Do not drain water onto your neighbour’s property. Lower the water level until it is four to six inches below the skimmer. This helps prevent freezing and damage during the winter.

For saltwater pools and spas, slowly drain the water into an indoor drain connected to the sewer system, such as a basement sink, shower, or floor drain. Do not let the drain overflow. Never drain saltwater onto the ground, into a storm drain, or onto neighbouring properties. Salt can harm plants, animals and waterways.

If you have a temporary soft-sided pool, completely drain and clean it. Dry all pipes, pumps and liners before storing them in a protected area. Some empty vinyl pools can stay in place if they are covered with a waterproof tarp and protected from weather and pets.

Remove equipment and clean filters

After lowering the water level, remove ladders, toys and cleaning equipment. Rinse them and let them dry before storing them.

Clean any exposed parts of the pool wall to remove dirt and build-up. Throw used filter cartridges in the garbage. Take leftover pool chemicals to a Community Recycling Centre for safe disposal.

Prepare the pool for winter

You can add winterizing products such as non-chlorine shock or algae-control products to help reduce algae and bacteria during the colder months. Non-toxic antifreeze can also be added to disconnected pipes, skimmers and pumps to help prevent damage. Remove the antifreeze in the spring before opening the pool.

Finish by installing a secure winter cover over the pool. A cover helps keep the water clean and can prevent people, pets and wildlife from falling into the pool during the winter.

For more information about stormwater systems in Mississauga, visit mississauga.ca/stormwater.

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• Stormwater