1.  DO NOT shut the pool down for the winter season! Our warmer climate in Arizona does not require that plaster pools (95% of the pools in the southwest) be drained for the winter season. Continue to circulate, filter, and chlorinate the water throughout the winter.

2.  By keeping your pool operating under "limited" operation, you can insure that the pool will remain algae free at a minimal cost and will be ready for immediate operation in the spring.

3.  Make sure that your pool is vacuumed when you can see dirt collecting on the bottom. It is not necessary to vacuum every week. If leaves collect in the pool or filters, remove them immediately as they may cause permanent stains on the plaster.

4.  Maintain a free chlorine residual of 1.0ppm. Since swimmers will be absent and the temperatures lower, the cost to maintain this level is minimal.

5.  Keep the pH between 7.2 and 7.6. This allows the equipment to operate properly and not corrode any parts.

6.  If you have a timer on your pump, set it to circulate the water for at least four hours a day. You may need to adjust this setting based upon the size and style of your pool.

7.  Backwash the filter and clean the strainer basket only as required. This may be as little as 1X per month or less.