How to Close Your Pool for Winter?

Date: 11/07/2024

If you’re a pool owner, you likely know the joy and relaxation a pool can bring during the warm months. However, as temperatures begin to drop, it’s crucial to properly close your pool for winter to protect your investment, prevent damage, and ensure a smooth reopening when spring arrives. 

This guide will walk you through the essential steps to winterize your pool, keeping it in top condition for years to come.

Preparing your pool for closing

Before officially closing your pool, it’s important to prepare it thoroughly:

Cleaning the pool

Start by removing all pool accessories, such as ladders, toys, and floats. Use a pool vacuum to clean the bottom and sides, ensuring no debris or dirt is left behind. Skimming the surface and emptying the skimmer baskets is also crucial to maintaining cleanliness.

Balancing pool chemicals

Proper chemical balance is vital for preventing algae growth and equipment corrosion over the winter. Test and adjust the pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels. The pH should be between 7.2 and 7.6, alkalinity between 80 and 150 ppm, and calcium hardness between 175 and 225 ppm. Add a winterizing algaecide to prevent algae blooms, and shock the pool with chlorine to eliminate any remaining bacteria.

Lowering water levels

Lowering your pool’s water level prevents freezing damage to the skimmer and tile line. For solid covers, lower the water to about 6 inches below the skimmer, and for mesh covers, about 12 inches below. Avoid draining the pool completely, as this can cause structural issues.

Winterizing pool equipment

To protect your pool equipment from freezing temperatures, follow these steps:

Protecting the pump and filter

Drain all water from the pump, filter, heater, and other pool equipment. Remove drain plugs and store them in a safe place for the winter. For additional protection, consider storing these components indoors if possible.

Adding antifreeze to plumbing lines

After blowing out the plumbing lines with an air compressor to remove water, add pool antifreeze to prevent any leftover water from freezing and causing cracks.

Covering the pool

Choosing the right pool cover is paramount for protecting your pool during the winter months:

Selecting a pool cover

Two main options exist—winter pool covers and safety covers. Winter covers are typically less expensive and designed to keep out debris, while safety covers are more robust and can support weight, offering added protection.

Securing the pool cover

Make sure your cover fits snugly and is secured with cover clips or water bags to prevent it from being disturbed by wind. Regularly check the cover throughout the winter to ensure it remains secure and free of excess water or debris.

Monitoring the pool during winter

Even after your pool is closed, periodic checks are essential to ensure your pool remains clean and healthy. Inspect the cover’s security, clear any debris that accumulates, and check that the water level is ideal to preserve the chemical balance. This proactive monitoring will help avoid any unwelcome surprises come spring.

Re-opening the pool in spring

When warmer temperatures return, it’s time to prepare your pool for use:

Removing the cover

Carefully remove the pool cover, clean it thoroughly, and store it appropriately for next season. Take care not to allow any debris from the cover to fall into the pool.

Cleaning and balancing the water

Once the cover is off, skim the surface, vacuum the pool, and clean the walls. Test and adjust chemical levels to ensure they are within the appropriate ranges before allowing anyone to swim.

Additional tips for a hassle-free pool opening

• Inspect equipment: Check pumps, filters, and heaters for any signs of damage and perform necessary maintenance or replace parts if needed.
• Regular monitoring: Regularly maintain your pool with scheduled cleanings and chemical checks during the swimming season to make closing more manageable.
• Professional assistance: Consider hiring professionals to carry out a thorough inspection and maintenance to ensure everything is in optimal working condition.

If you’re considering upgrading your pool or need expert help with installations or remodels, contact Master Pools of Wilmington. With over 51 years of experience, our family-owned business is committed to excellence and customer satisfaction. Start planning your dream pool today!