Cold weather doesn’t put a year‑round pool on pause—it rewrites the playbook. We walk through the real rules of winter care for open pools in warmer regions, showing you how to keep water clear, equipment safe, and surfaces protected when temperatures drop. From algae myths to smarter chemistry, you’ll get a practical framework you can use the same day. First, we tackle the big misconception: cold water doesn’t kill algae, it only slows it. That’s why a steady 3–5 ppm chlorine residual still matters, especially if you fire up an attached spa for winter soaks. We explain how to prevent cloudy water and organic stains from leaves, bugs, and runoff, and we share a simple routine for skimming, vacuuming, and keeping your cleaner productive when debris spikes. Next, we dig into chemistry that actually changes with temperature. Using the Langelier Saturation Index, we show why cooler water allows a higher pH target—often 7.8 to 8.0—to avoid corrosive conditions. You’ll learn when to dose acid lightly, how to balance alkalinity and calcium hardness, and why small adjustments protect plaster and metal components. We also cut through pump confusion: yes, you can run the system less than in summer, but not zero. A thoughtful 5–6 hour schedule maintains circulation, filtration, and cleaner coverage without wasting energy. • definition of winterizing versus year‑round care • why algae slows but still survives in cold water • maintaining sanitizer for clarity and spa safety • increased debris load and stain prevention • adjusting pH and LSI targets in cold water • essential pump runtime for circulation and cleaning • practical gear tips for cold mornings • client education and winter service value Are you a pool service pro looking to take your business to the next level? Join the pool guy coaching program. Get expert advice, business tips, exclusive content, and get direct support. Learn more at swimmingpoollearning.com. Again, go to the bottom and get your gloves there. Send us a text Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA https://bit.ly/HASA The Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100 https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/ Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days: https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching: https://bit.ly/40wFE6y Support the show Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you: Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.com Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPL Podcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry’s leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits
