Closing Your Pool: End-of-Season Guide
Is your pool winter-ready? Proper winterization protects your pool from freezing damage. This ensures an easier opening next summer and less maintenance before your first swim.
Winterizing involves cleaning, balancing water chemistry, and adding special chemicals. Start when temperatures stay below 65°F (18°C) to prevent algae growth.
This guide will walk you through closing your pool for winter. We’ll provide step-by-step instructions and expert tips. Our goal is to keep your pool in top shape during the off-season.
We’ll cover lowering water levels, cleaning filters, and installing winter covers. Let’s explore how to properly winterize your pool!
Key Takeaways:
- Begin closing your pool when temperatures consistently drop below 65°F (18°C)
- Clean the pool thoroughly and remove any debris before closing
- Test and balance the water chemistry, aiming for a pH between 7.2 and 7.8, alkalinity between 80 and 120 ppm, and chlorine between 1 and 3 ppm
- Add winterizing chemicals, such as pool shock, algaecide, and enzymes, to maintain water clarity and prevent algae growth
- Lower the water level, clean and backwash the filter and pump, clear pool lines, and plug skimmers and returns before installing the winter pool cover
- Check on your pool periodically throughout the off-season to address any issues promptly
Preparing Your Pool for Winter
Winterizing your pool is crucial for protection against cold weather damage. It prevents algae growth and makes reopening easier in spring. Let’s explore the key steps for winter pool preparation.
Cleaning the Pool and Removing Debris
Start by cleaning your pool thoroughly to prevent bacteria growth. Use a leaf net to remove leaves and debris from the water. This prevents contamination and surface staining.
Brush the pool walls and floor to dislodge any remaining contaminants. Then vacuum the pool to remove all loose dirt and debris. If you spot algae, use an algae brush for concrete pools.
Testing and Balancing Pool Water Chemistry
Test your pool water with a kit or take a sample to a pool store. Proper chemical balance protects against corrosion and scale build-up during winter. Aim for these ideal ranges:
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
|---|---|
| pH | 7.2 – 7.6 |
| Alkalinity | 80 – 150 ppm |
| Calcium Hardness | 175 – 225 ppm |
| Chlorine | 1 – 3 ppm |
Shock your pool at night before closing. Run the pump overnight to distribute the shock evenly. Test the water again the next day to ensure proper balance.
Adding Winterizing Chemicals
Add a dose of polyquat 60% non-copper algaecide to prevent algae growth. Double the dose if your cover has openings for debris. For high-metal water, use a metal sequestrant to prevent staining.
Consider adding pool enzymes as an extra measure for clear water. They break down organic contaminants, helping chlorine work better. A winter pill with enzymes can slowly dissolve under the cover.
Step-by-Step Guide to Closing Your Pool
Closing your pool for winter is crucial. It protects your pool from damage. Follow our guide for a smooth process and easier reopening in spring.
Lowering the Water Level
Start by lowering the water level. For mesh covers, aim 12-18 inches below the skimmer. Solid covers need 3-4 inches below the skimmer.
Protect tile by lowering water 1-6 inches below it. Use the filter’s “waste” setting or a submersible pump for inground pools.
Install a winter cover plate or plug the skimmer. In warmer climates, pool antifreeze can prevent line freezing.
Cleaning and Backwashing the Filter and Pump
Clean and backwash your pool’s filter and pump. Remove cartridge filters, clean with filter cleaner, rinse, and dry before storing.
Backwash sand and D.E. filters thoroughly. Add filter cleaner for a deep clean. Turn the multiport valve to “closed” after backwashing.
Drain water from pump, filter, and heater. Close skimmer and vacuum ports. Open the main drain and bottom suction ports.
Clearing Pool Lines and Plugging Skimmers and Returns
Blow out pool lines with an air compressor. This prevents ice fractures. Remove return fittings, skimmer baskets, and drain plugs.
Attach the compressor to the pump’s drain plug opening. Watch for bubbles from return lines and skimmer.
Use a wet/dry vacuum on the skimmer. Insert a rubber plug or Gizzmo. Plug each return line as air escapes.
Installing the Winter Pool Cover
Consider adding floating containers with antifreeze to pool corners. This helps prevent ice damage in concrete or tiled pools.
Choose between a standard winter cover or a safety cover. Ensure the cover is tight and secure to keep debris out.
Use a cover pump for solid covers. Air pillows can help distribute snow and ice weight evenly.
| Pool Cover Type | Key Features | Recommended Water Level |
|---|---|---|
| Mesh Cover | Allows water to pass through, prevents debris | 12-18 inches below skimmer |
| Solid Cover | Completely seals pool, requires cover pump | 3-4 inches below skimmer |
| Safety Cover | Supports excess weight, prevents accidental falls | 1-2 inches of water on cover |
Follow these steps to protect your pool from freeze damage. Check your cover regularly during winter. Remove debris and excess water.
Avoid breaking ice on the cover or inside the pool. This can tear the liner. With proper care, your pool will be ready for spring.
How to Close a Pool for the Season
Closing your pool for winter is vital to prevent damage. It keeps your pool in good shape during the off-season. Proper winterizing reduces spring maintenance and lets you enjoy your pool sooner.
Importance of Proper Pool Winterization
Winterizing guards against damage from freezing temperatures. It prevents cracks in the pool surface and equipment. Skipping this step can lead to algae growth and staining.
Proper winterization protects your pool’s internal finish. Using the right chemicals, equipment, and cover is key. This ensures your pool stays in good condition throughout winter.
Checking Your Pool Throughout the Off-Season
Regularly inspect your pool and cover during winter. Look for excess water, ice formation, or cover damage. Remove debris and water from solid covers with a pump.
Break any ice on the pool surface to prevent wall damage. Keep water levels below the skimmer to protect equipment. Add water as needed.
Prompt attention to issues prevents bigger problems. This can save you from costly repairs when reopening your pool in spring.
