How to Winterize Your Pool in the Var: A Step-by-Step Guide
Winterizing a pool in the Var region is different from winterizing one in Burgundy or Alsace. Frost is rare, and temperatures remain above freezing most of the time, but the pool must still be protected against winter hazards: acid rain, leaves, chemical degradation, and biological growth. Active or passive winterization? When should you start? What precautions should you take? A comprehensive guide to getting through the winter season without damage.
Active or Passive Winter Storage: Making the Right Choice
Two approaches coexist. Active winterization keeps the filtration system running at a reduced rate (a few hours a day, or controlled by a temperature sensor) throughout the winter. The water remains in circulation and is lightly treated. This is the recommended option for the Var region, where freezing is rare and where mild temperatures would otherwise promote biological growth.
Passive winterization involves completely shutting down the pool: lowering the water level, draining the pipes, adding antifreeze, plugging the jets, and covering the pool. This option is reserved for very cold regions or properties that are truly unoccupied throughout the winter.
When to Start Winter Storage in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez
The best time is between mid-October and mid-November, when the water temperature drops consistently below 15 °C. Winterizing too early (when the water is still at 20 °C) encourages algae growth under the cover. Winterizing too late exposes the pond to unexpected cold nights that can damage the equipment.
The rule is to monitor the water temperature, not the calendar. POOLRITUAL schedules winterization for its contracted customers at the optimal time for each pool.
Steps for Successful Active Wintering
Step 1: Thorough cleaning of the pool (brushing the walls, vacuuming the bottom, cleaning the waterline, disassembling and cleaning the filters). Step 2: Fully balance the water (pH 7.2 / TAC 100 / stabilized TH). Step 3: Perform a shock treatment with unstabilized chlorine to eliminate any residual bacteria. Step 4: Add the appropriate winterizing product.
Step 5: Set the filtration schedule to temperature-controlled mode (based on weather conditions; typically 2 to 4 hours per day during the Var winter). Step 6: Lower the water level below the skimmers only if severe freezing is expected (generally not necessary in coastal areas). Step 7: Install the winter cover.
Winter Cover: A Fundamental Choice
Bar covers, traditional winter tarps, winter netting: each type has its advantages. Bar covers offer child safety and can be used year-round. Winter tarps are more economical but require complete seasonal removal. Netting allows rainwater to pass through (useful in the Var region’s climate to compensate for evaporation) while blocking leaves.
For infinity pools, pools with submerged decks, or pools with complex shapes, custom solutions are available. POOLRITUAL recommends the right solution for every configuration.
Winter Maintenance: Leave Nothing to Chance
Proper winterization doesn't mean you can completely forget about the pool. A monthly check during the winter allows you to verify the water level, the condition of the cover, and whether the filtration system is operating properly in reduced mode, as well as to monitor the water chemistry (the pH drifts slowly even with reduced filtration).
POOLRITUAL includes this monitoring service in the annual contract: one or two visits per month during the off-season are enough to ensure a hassle-free spring.
Mistakes to Avoid
Some common pitfalls: overwintering without balancing the water (algae will proliferate under the cover); forgetting to clean the filters before winterizing (bacteria can become permanently established there); completely cutting off the power to the equipment room (moisture can build up there); failing to monitor the pond during the winter (a sagging cover, an invisible leak, or a cover blown away by the mistral wind can cause significant damage).
The golden rule: Proper preparation for winter in the fall is essential for a smooth start to the spring.
FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions
Should you drain your pool for the winter in the Var?
No, and it is actually strongly discouraged. An empty pool is at risk of being lifted by the water table and of suffering damage to its lining. The pool must remain filled, with the water level lowered only to just below the skimmers in the event of severe freezing.
How long does active hibernation last?
In the Var region, the active overwintering period typically lasts from mid-November to mid-March—about 4 months. The exact duration depends on the water temperature, which must remain below 15 °C.
Can the mistral wind damage a winter cover?
Yes. The strong winds in the region require covers that are securely fastened, ideally with bars or a reinforced fastening system. A cover that is not properly secured can be blown away and cause damage.
CONTACT POOLRITUAL
POOLRITUAL — High-end pool specialist in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez
79 Place de la Gare, 83240 Cavalaire-sur-Mer
poolritual.com
