How To Properly Store Your Pool Equipment
Proper pool equipment storage is often the key to a lively pool experience. It ensures the hygiene of your pool and enhances its functionality by making it more convenient, less hectic, and more fun. Not only does their proper maintenance cut down on your replacement costs, but it also grants you a laxation in energy bills. This is because properly maintained pumps, filters, and heaters operate more efficiently than poorly maintained ones while keeping the water clean and fresh for your activities. It will also reduce the chances of clogged pipes and the inevitable disruption of pool functionality, where elongated exposure to the sun or heat can cause plastic components to crack while moisture can build up rust. So, without further ado, let's discuss the benefits of equipment maintenance and the proper way to deal with them.
Table of Contents
- Why Storing Pool Equipment Properly Matters
- Preparation Before Storage
- Storage Guidelines for Different Pool Equipment
- Seasonal Tips for Pool Equipment Storage
- Final Thought
Why Storing Pool Equipment Properly Matters
Proper storage of pool equipment keeps it in good condition by protecting it from weather exposure, including UV rays, and extremely low temperatures. You must also care for the chemicals you use to clean your pools since improper handling leads to degradation and can pose risks. Some chemicals, like chlorine and acids, can even become hazardous if they come into contact with each other or are stored in poorly sealed containers. Proper maintenance ensures the longevity of these tools and allows them to remain efficient in their functions. This ensures clog-free pumps and filters, cleaners that stay in top shape, and functional pool covers that avoid damage like tears or mildew. Good storage practices protect your investment and save you money and hassle in the long run.
Preparation Before Storage
Storage doesn't mean dumping your equipment in your yard and forgetting about them. First, they need to be cleaned to ensure they don't have any chlorine residue, which can lead to rusting. Other lingering chemicals or dirt often result in corrosion and damage to the equipment. Make sure to remain gentle with your equipment and use appropriate tools, such as soft cloths, gentle cleaning solutions, and brushes, to scrub it without causing damage. Leave them out to dry, but protect them from direct sunlight to prevent further damage. To speed up the process, use absorbent towels to ensure no dampness remains.
Storage Guidelines for Different Pool Equipment
Now that you understand why proper storage is important let's dive into how to store pool equipment properly.
Pool Covers
Fold the covers neatly and tuck them into a protective bag or container to avoid cracking. Ensure the cover is completely dry before folding to avoid mildew or mould buildup. You want to keep the cover in a cool, dry place away from sunlight since they are usually made from poly-ethene, and the UV rays can cause its surface to degrade over time.
Pool Pumps and Filters
Draining water from pumps and filters is essential to prevent freezing and internal damage, especially in colder climates. Start by disconnecting the pump and removing drain plugs to let water flow out completely. For filters, open the air relief valve or drain port to release any trapped water. Once drained, clean all components to remove dirt and chemical residues and store them in a dry, temperature-controlled area. You can also store their components in different containers because smaller parts, like O-rings and drain plugs, tend to get lost very easily.
Pool Chemicals
Working with chemicals is always risky, so you must be extra careful in handling and storage. Keep them in separate labeled containers to avoid confusion and cross-contamination, which can lead to inefficiency and dangerous reactions. Also, avoid placing chemicals near flammable materials or areas accessible to children or pets. Protecting chemicals from sunlight is even more crucial because their degradation is rapid, and they are responsible for the hygiene of your pool.
Pool Cleaning Tools
Store poles, nets, brushes, and pool cleaners in a way that prevents bending, cracking, or other damage. Use wall hooks, dedicated storage racks, or bins to keep these tools organized and off the ground. Ensure all cleaning tools are thoroughly rinsed and dried before storage to prevent rust or degradation. Your automated cleaners should be cleaned, dried, and stored in a protective cover or bag to shield them from dust and damage during the off-season.
Ideal Pool Equipment Storage Locations
Indoor storage is definitely a better option than outdoor storage. Locations such as your garage, basement, or shed provide excellent protection from harsh weather conditions and keep items away from prying hands. Don't be afraid to get creative in organizing your storage space where you can keep labelled containers for smaller spare parts, wall hooks for cleaning equipment, and a separate area entirely for chemicals that are out of reach of children and pets. You can store your equipment in weather-resistant bins or cabinets away from sunlight and rain for outdoor storage. To secure your equipment, opt for lockable bins or cabinets to deter theft and keep children or pets from accessing hazardous items.
Seasonal Tips for Pool Equipment Storage
Pool activities in both seasons, as do their maintenance and storage, vary considerably. Since pool activities are more active during summer, it's essential to keep pool equipment in an easily accessible area while keeping it well organized. Frequent use is expected, so regularly inspect all equipment for signs of wear, such as rust, UV damage, or pest activity. Protecting pool equipment from freezing temperatures is critical when pool activity is relatively low in winter. Drain all water from pumps, filters, and hoses to prevent cracks caused by ice expansion. Store these items in a temperature-controlled space, like a garage or shed. Use weatherproof bins or cabinets for outdoor storage and cover them with insulated materials, such as heavy-duty tarps or thermal blankets, to shield against frost.
Final Thought
Knowing how to properly store your pool equipment is critical since it improves its lifespan and efficiency. By putting in a little effort in equipment maintenance, you can improve the quality of your pool activities by a milestone, which will keep things running smoothly for you and your pool. The key factors you need to remember about proper maintenance of pool equipment are their protection from elements, their cleanliness, and the organization to keep them in tip-top shape, which becomes even more important when dealing with chemicals. Routine checks keep you away from replacement costs and all the hassle of a dirty, nonfunctional pool that is no fun.