Yes, you absolutely need proper alkalinity in your pool water. Alkalinity acts as a pH buffer, preventing rapid pH swings and maintaining water balance for swimmer comfort and equipment protection.
Most pools do not need to be fully drained for winter - only lowered 4-6 inches below skimmers. Proper winterization with chemicals and equipment protection is more important than draining.
Yes, liner pools need calcium hardness maintained between 150-300 ppm for proper water balance and equipment protection. While vinyl liners don't require as much calcium as plaster pools, maintaining adequate levels prevents corrosive water conditions.
Covering a salt water pool is not legally required, but it's highly recommended for reducing chemical loss, preventing debris, and protecting your salt cell. The process involves specific steps for winterization and equipment protection.
Yes, you can leave an above ground pool up all year, but it requires proper winterization including chemical balancing, equipment protection, and regular maintenance to prevent freeze damage and extend pool life.
Fiberglass pools need calcium hardness maintained between 150-300 ppm for proper water balance and equipment protection. Lower levels than plaster pools are acceptable since fiberglass doesn't dissolve like concrete surfaces.
You can close a pool without a cover, but it requires more frequent chemical monitoring, debris removal, and equipment protection. The pool will need regular maintenance throughout winter.
