Single Family Rental Property Owners – Maintaining a Swimming Pool During the Winter Months helps Reduce Long Term Costs
Single Family Rental (SFR) properties are growing in popularity due to a variety of economic reasons. The competition is fierce in many markets. SFR Properties with swimming pools may be more attractive to some renters. But SFR properties with pools could present additional challenges during the winter months whether they are occupied or not. We all know that winter is not the most popular time for swimming. Even so, a pool must be maintained or winterized properly by the tenant or the SFR company. If not maintained or winterized property, costly repairs could ensue. Not to mention the functionality of the pool could be altered or delayed.
Below are some reasons why maintaining a pool during winter months is important:
Yucky algae growth: We’ve all seen a pool with algae building up. It catches our eye but then springs up essentially overnight. The color is awful and unattractive. When this occurs, the tainted pool water must be cleaned, and the algae makes it more difficult. When treated properly and on schedule OR winterized if required, algae growth can be prevented.
Protect that pool equipment: We know from first-hand experience that freezing temperatures can cause damage to pool equipment. The pumps, filters, pipes, drains and heaters can all be affected. Avoid costly repairs by winterizing. Another alternative is to make sure the system’s freeze guard is working properly. These mechanisms will keep the pool pump running during freezing temperatures if a pool is not winterized and help avoid costly repairs.
Mitigate cracks and leaks: Cracks and leaks can develop on a pool if it is not properly maintained. Winter months are particular trying for pools. While winterization or maintenance can help prevent these types of damages, regular inspections and timely repairs can prevent the damage from worsening. Keep in mind that ALL POOLS will have some wear and tear. Whether the damages occur during the winter or not, it is important to mitigate these damages as soon as they occur.
It’s pool season: When the weather is right, who wants to take time to repair damages caused during the Winter months? Not us. When it’s time to swim, people (and children in particular) are ready to it the water. The pool start will be much easier if properly maintained during the Winter months!
In conclusion, pool maintenance is a crucial component for SFR property readiness. Potential tenants will want to know the pool is functioning and want to have visual confirmation upon viewing the pool. Additionally, the pool equipment will last longer if properly maintained during the winter and throughout the year. It comes down to economics – SFR companies will save time and money by making sure that a pool is properly maintained.