What exactly is “Winterization” and does your system need it?

by Mike | Nov 13, 2021 | Fish Care, Garden Pond Care, Pond Blog, Pond Cleanout, Ponds, Seasonal Care, Winter Pond Care

The word “Winterization” can be confusing. Each pond or water feature needs to be ready for the winter whether they are being shut down or just serviced so they are ready to run for the whole winter. I am going to break it down into “Winter Ready” meaning the feature will be running for the winter and “Winter Shut Down” meaning the feature will NOT be running all winter.

Do you usually run your pond through the winter (meaning you let the pump run)?

Yes? Then the pond needs a Winter Ready visit. What happens in a Winter Ready visit?

Remove the fall net if the leaves have been removed from the yard.
Clean out the skimmer box and filters.
Plants -Cut back brown plants up to 50% of the pond.
Remove UV light to be stored inside – note- MOST UV LIGHTS NEED TO BE REPLACED EVERY YEAR, even if it is stored, it may not work the next year.
Remove, IonGen and Autodose, move to indoor location.
Turn pressure filter setting to winter.
Add cold water bacteria.

Do you usually shut the pond down for the winter?

Then the pond needs a Winter Pond Shut Down.

Remove the pump to be stored where it won’t freeze.
Place aerators in the pond.
Remove the fall net if the leaves have been removed from the yard.
Clean out the skimmer box and filters.
Plants -Cut back brown plants up to 50% of the pond.
Remove UV light to be stored inside – note- MOST UV LIGHTS NEED TO BE REPLACED EVERY YEAR, even if it is stored, it may not work the next year.
Remove, IonGen and Autodose, move to indoor location.
Turn pressure filter setting to winter.
Add cold water bacteria.

All outdoor water features need care in the fall and throughout the winter. When care is taken in Autumn, ponds start off clean and ready to go in Spring. Homeowners can certainly do this themselves, but if you would like assistance just give us a call!