Pool Closings Part 1: Above Ground Edition

above ground

With summer gone, it’s time for above ground pool owners to close down their pools. Winter brings frigid temperatures and ice can cause thousands of dollars of damage to pools that aren’t prepared correctly. That makes properly closing down your pool an essential part of pool maintenance. Here are our key steps to prepare your pool for fall weather and beyond.

Above Ground Pools

You’ll need to remove and store pumps and filters. Insert plugs into the pool filter water intake and outflow openings (usually in the pool’s sidewall). Disconnect all hoses from the pool and let it drain. Disconnect and drain all water heaters, filters, skimmers, automatic chlorinator, or salt chlorinator, and then store these in a warm, dry place like your basement.

Lastly, inflate and deploy the pool pillows and cover the pool. Be sure the cover is secure so that it won’t blow away and that there is enough support from the pillow underneath so that ice meltwater will drain easily from the cover. Otherwise, ice and meltwater can stretch and tear the cover and contaminate your pool water.

Closing down your pool may sound like daunting maintenance job, but it’s something that can be finished in the span of a week but A mistake could cost you thousands.

If you don’t feel confident enough to do the job correctly yourself, give us a call! We offer above ground pool closing services.

How to Update Your Patio For Fall

fall furniture

Updating Your Patio

Just because the warm weather is giving way to cooler temperatures does not mean that your patio has to sit idly as the month’s pass. In fact, fall is a great time to take advantage of the outdoor space. There are several ways you can enjoy your backyard living area. Here are a few of our favorite ideas to extend the use of your patio into autumn.

1. Make it More Inviting

The point of a patio is to extend the living space of your home. Therefore, why not transform the area into a bit of a backyard paradise? While you can take on an expensive remodel, there are also some simple things you can do to make space a little cozier.

If your current patio set is worn down, broken or uncomfortable, you are not likely to spend much time outside. We would recommend taking the time to restore your patio furniture or splurge on something you will actually enjoy. No matter how you go about it, having the right furniture is essential.

Another way to keep the space warm and colorful is to get an outdoor rug to serve as a barrier between the cold concrete pavers and your feet. This extra splash of color is a simple – and cheap – way to make your patio cozier.

2. Light It Up

A sure sign of autumn is that the days get shorter, and nighttime comes sooner and sooner. As daylight fades, you may be inclined to head indoors unless you have properly outfitted your backyard space with the right lighting scheme. Depending on the theme of your space, you may choose to play with tiki-style lighting or even overhead appliances. For a fun look, consider stringing lights around the space, which works especially well if you have a deck or other structure to support it.

 

3. Keep It Warm

 

Another great way to make your patio useful this fall is to install a fire pit. In addition to creating heat, you can also use the pit for doing fall activities such as roasting marshmallows. Fire pits can be free-standing, which are typically more affordable, or you can have them added to the stonework of your existing space.

Have any questions about how to turn your patio into a perfect fall space? Contact us here!

 

How to Get Your Spas and Hot Tubs Ready For Cool Weather

hot tub fall

Spas and Hot Tubs

Spa owners already know this: when summer ends, hot tub usage heats up. The weather gets cooler, kids start new sports activities, and in general, everyone spends more time at home. It’s a prime season for spas and hot tubs, so make sure yours is ready for action.

Consider these tips:

1. Filter

Start of a new season is a good time to check the filters – replace them if needed for maximum operating efficiency.

Clean your filter regularly on the recommended manufacturer’s basis. Dirty filters are often the cause of bacteria build-up and other water issues, which can cause health problems in spa-users.

2. Ozone Generator

To maintain water quality, check the levels of pH, total alkalinity, hardness, and chlorine or bromine in your water before each use. Adjust as needed if you don’t use an ozone generator. An ozone generator is a water purifier that sprays ozone gas into the water – significantly reducing, but not totally eliminating, the need for chemicals.

3. Shell, Cabinet, and Cover

Clean your cabinet, hot tub surface, and cover according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If snow is an issue in your area: A plastic tarp over the cover can prevent snow shovel damage.

Is your cover in good shape or is it time for a replacement? Your spa cover prevents leaves and dirt from getting into the water, and it keeps the heat inside to conserve energy.

4. Change It Up

Depending upon the use of your spa, plan to change the water completely about every 60 to 90 days. Chemicals can’t protect you properly in water that is old and used often.

 

Have any questions about your hot tub? Contact us here!

 

How To Prepare Your Patio Furniture for Cold Weather

patio furniture fall

Patio Furniture

This time of year is perfect to prepare your outdoor furniture for the upcoming cooler months. While most furniture nowadays will stand up to the harsh winter elements, there are some things you can do to make sure it will look its best next year. After all, the happier you are with your furniture, the more likely you are to use your outdoor space for entertaining!

Before you jump right in and accept that this year’s Summer season is over, keep in mind that some of the best temperatures for spending time in your outdoor space have yet to come. In fact, you may find yourself outdoors more now than during those hot afternoons.

Here is our list of what you should do to prepare your patio furniture for cold weather.

How to Prepare Your Patio Furniture for Cold Weather

1. Know what choices you have for storing outdoor furniture. Whether it be a garage, shed, or storage unit, knowing how much space you have ahead of time will make things easier for you when it comes time to store it.

2. If storing in a dry location isn’t possible, at least remove the cushions and put them indoors. You can also use mild soap and water to clean it.

3. If you have to leave everything outdoors, we recommend investing in heavy-duty, waterproof covers that will protect from the elements. Vinyl is a durable and budget-friendly option!

If you need any help with your patio furniture or backyard living, don’t hesitate to contact us here. 

Fall Foods You Need To Grill This Season

fall foods

Fall Foods

At Cincinnati Pool & Patio, we love grilling just as much as you do. Summer may be over, but you can still enjoy this activity during the fall. We assembled this great list of fall foods that you can enjoy well into the season!

Desserts

Pies

Nothing says fall or the holidays more than pies. Sure, you can bake them just like your grandma did, but grilling them can bring on a whole new level of flavor. Classic apple, pumpkin or even sugar creme are just some of the flavors you can grill up this fall.

Smores

They’re not just for campfires anymore. Fall is the season of smores and making them on the grill is the perfect excuse to keep using it during the fall.

Keep it classic with milk chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallows, or throw in some of your favorite candy and even fruit for an added twist.

Fall Fruits and Vegetables

There’s almost nothing better than fresh fruits and veggies. The only thing we can think of is GRILLING them.

Grilled apples, sweet potatoes, squash, pumpkin, radish, and kale are just some of the fall produce you can grill up for the family.

Proteins

When you think of grilling, meat is one of the first things that comes to mind. Pork is great versatile meat that will be easy to integrate with fall seasonings like thyme, rosemary, and fennel.

Have questions about your grill or looking to upgrade? Let us know by contacting us here.

Pool Safety Covers: Why You Need Them

pool cover

Pool Safety Covers

The statistics don’t lie. With an average of 10 deaths a day by accidental drowning in the USA it is up to everyone who owns a swimming pool to be aware of the steps they can take to help try and prevent these needless deaths. Even though there are over 80 million residential swimming pools in the USA. Our goal and yours as a pool owner should be to get this average amount of daily accidental drownings down to zero. One of the important items you need to ensure your pool is safe is pool safety covers.

When People are using your pool

When there are people in the pool it is up to you and the supervising adults to keep a close eye on the children. Establish a firm set of rules for your pool that everyone clearly understands and are strictly followed.

When the pool is unattended

This is where a pool safety cover comes in handy. These covers will ensure that no unattended child, animal, or leaf is able to fall into the pool.

Out of the season, it’s important to check your cover to make sure it is working properly. This will keep your family and pool safe during the entire year.

If your pool isn’t covered, you need some pool safety covers that will protect you from harm. Contact Cincinnati and Patio and we can find the perfect safety cover for you.

Your Backyard: Fall Edition

patio furniture in fall

Your Backyard

Fall has arrived and it’s time to fill your backyard living area with cozy features perfect for fall.

Your backyard is a continuation of your home which showcases your style and personality. Why should that end with summer? Extend your time in the fresh air with outdoor seating areas that feel as cozy as your couch.

Secluded Backyard Living Space

We all need a getaway from time to time. Create a secluded area that feels warm and cozy in your own backyard. Natural landscaping creates the perfect backdrop for this unique fireplace and stone flooring. Add a few wicker chairs and a matching end table that mimic the surrounding landscape to enjoy your peaceful retreat for hours.

Add Some Sizzle

Don’t neglect your deck! With beautiful views or a custom outdoor space, your deck is the perfect place to enjoy the autumn air. Add a free-standing hot tub to stay warm on those chilly nights or enjoy time with family and friends.

Incorporate Greenery

Plants are a flexible, quick, and budget-friendly way to update your outdoor design each season. Adding vines to a pergola or fence softens the space while adding variety and interest. For a splash of color, consider potted plants that give you the flexibility to replace depending on the season or your color palette.

Backyard Living Room

A living room forms a gathering place in your home, so why not have the same outdoors? A pergola acts as a roof to create a defined space, just as your walls do indoors. With the addition of brick flooring, comfy furniture, and a warm fireplace, you’ll feel right at home.

Wanting to find the best features for your home? Contact us here or visit us!

Fall Pool Maintenance Tips

fall pool maintenance

Fall Maintenance

The weather is cooling, summer is ending and the leaves are about start falling. Fall pool maintenance is key to keeping your pool issue free going into winter.

Here are some changes and services to consider for your pool this fall.

1. LEAVES & DEBRIS.

Fall pool maintenance involves a lot of leaf removal. When leaves accumulate in the pool, algae begins to grow and thrive. Leaves that sink to the bottom of the pool stain the flooring material. If you have a lot of trees around your pool, keeping your pool covered while not in use can save lots of cleaning time.

2. HEATING CYCLE.

It is a good idea to adjust your water’s heating cycle so your pool is comfortable for swimming. Outside temperatures are falling and so to keep costs down, cover your pool at night.

3. PREPARE FOR THE EARLY FREEZE.

If you live in a colder climate, the first freeze of winter can happen early and unexpectedly. Depending on how far north you live, you may want to partially winterize your pool.

No matter where you live, be sure to get on board with fall pool maintenance to ensure your pool is hassle-free going into and coming out of winter.

4. POOL FILTER.

If you’ve had a busy summer, it might be a good time to clean your pool filter. With the debris from falling foliage and lower temperatures, a clean filter to start the fall season is important.

5. GENERAL FALL POOL MAINTENANCE

Removal all pool toys. Ensure the pool is in the good general order. Use your pool vacuum, brush tiles and clean the pool deck.

Need help with pool maintenance or with closing your pool for the season? Contact us here!

9 Effective Ways to Close Your Pool for the Season

pool closing

Close Your Pool

Closing your pool for winter is the most important step in ensuring it lasts season after season.  But, with so many different how-tos available online how can you be sure you are closing it correctly?  That’s what we’re here for. To tell you the best way to close your pool.

We have composed a list of generic steps to help you close your pool:

  1. A few days before you plan to close sweep all silt off the bottom of the pool and remove all debris
  2. Two days before closing add a phosphate remover to prevent and kill algae
  3. Run the filter for 24-48hours
  4. On Closing Day add or remove water to reach the level specified in your owner’s manual
  5. Balance the chemistry of your pool: total alkalinity should be between 80-120ppm and the pH between 7.4 and 7.6
  6. Drain pool lines and add antifreeze to prevent damage to your pipes
  7. Turn off all power to support equipment and remove fuses/turn circuit breakers to off
  8. Remove and store ladders, slides, and diving boards
  9. Install your safety cover, winter cover, or leaf net**

**optionally install an air pillow first.  An Air Pillow is a large air pocket underneath your cover that stops water/snow from pooling in the center of your cover

Remember, if you have any questions you stop in the store or give our friendly experts a call and we will be more than happy to help you with your pool closings.

The Importance of A Pool Safety Cover

pool safety cover

Pool Safety Cover

The statistics don’t lie. With an average of 10 deaths a day by accidental drowning in the USA it is up to everyone who owns a swimming pool to be aware of the steps they can take to help try and prevent these needless deaths.

Even though there are over 80 million residential swimming pools in the USA and these numbers represent a minuscule fraction of the people that swim in them; our goal and yours as a pool owner should be to get this average amount of daily accidental drownings down to zero.

One of the important items you need to ensure your pool is safe is a pool safety cover.

When People are using your pool

When there are people in the pool it is up to you and the supervising adults to keep a close eye on the children. Establish a firm set of rules for your pool that everyone clearly understands and are strictly followed.

When the pool is unattended

This is where a pool safety cover comes in handy. These covers will ensure that no unattended child or animal is able to fall into the pool.

It’s important to check your cover to make sure it is working properly. This will keep your family and pool safe during the entire year.

If your pool isn’t covered, you need a cover that will protect your pool from harm. Contact Cincinnati Pool & Patio and we can find the perfect safety cover for you.