- Why Proper Pool Closing Matters
- The Essential Steps to a Stress-Free Pool Closing
- 1. Thorough Cleaning and Water Balancing
- 2. Lowering the Water Level
- 3. Draining and Protecting Equipment
- 4. Adding Winterizing Chemicals
- 5. Installing the Winter Cover
- 6. Final Checks and Storage
- Enjoying Your Winterized Pool (Mentally)
Pool Closing is an essential annual ritual for any pool owner living in a colder climate. While it might seem like a daunting task, proper preparation and execution can transform it from a yearly headache into a straightforward process that guarantees a stress-free spring opening and protects your significant investment. This guide will walk you through the ultimate steps to winterize your pool effectively, ensuring its longevity and your peace of mind throughout the colder months.
Why Proper Pool Closing Matters
Neglecting to properly winterize your pool can lead to a host of expensive and frustrating problems. Freezing water expands, which can crack pipes, damage filters, heaters, pumps, and even the pool’s structure itself. Beyond structural damage, improper closing can result in stubborn algae blooms, cloudy water, and staining come springtime, turning what should be an exciting unveiling into a chore-filled restoration project. A meticulously closed pool, however, saves you money on repairs, reduces spring cleaning efforts, and extends the life of your equipment.
The Essential Steps to a Stress-Free Pool Closing
Successfully winterizing a pool involves a series of sequential steps. Approaching them systematically will make the process much smoother.
1. Thorough Cleaning and Water Balancing
Before you even think about shutting things down, your pool needs to be impeccably clean. Skim leaves and debris, vacuum the bottom, and brush the walls. Next, balance your water chemistry one last time. This is crucial for preventing algae growth and scale formation during the winter. Aim for:
pH: 7.4-7.6
Alkalinity: 80-120 ppm
Calcium Hardness: 180-220 ppm
Adjusting these levels now will significantly reduce spring clean-up. Once balanced, allow your filter to run for at least 24-48 hours to ensure even distribution of chemicals.
2. Lowering the Water Level
The ideal water level for winter varies depending on your pool type and cover.
For solid covers with an overlap: You typically lower the water a few inches below the skimmer opening. This prevents water from getting into your skimmer lines and allows the cover to sit properly.
For pools with safety covers (mesh or solid): You’ll generally lower the water 4-6 inches below the skimmer and return lines. This creates enough air space to prevent freezing water from affecting plumbing. Consult your pool manufacturer or local pool professional for specific recommendations.
3. Draining and Protecting Equipment
This is where you prevent freeze damage to your costly equipment.
Pumps, Filters, Heaters: Disconnect and drain all water from your pump, filter, and heater. Remove drain plugs and store them in a safe place (like the pump basket) so you don’t lose them. If your filter has a pressure gauge, remove it. For heaters, ensure vents are clear and consider covering them if they will remain outdoors.
Skimmer Lines: For skimmers that remain active, you’ll need to prevent water from accumulating and freezing. This often involves using a skimmer plug or a Gizzmo to absorb ice expansion. Blowing air through the lines is also a common practice to ensure they are completely dry, followed by adding a non-toxic pool-grade antifreeze to prevent any remaining moisture from freezing.
Return Lines: Install winterizing plugs in your return lines. Again, blowing out the lines with a powerful blower or shop vac (ensure it’s designed for wet use) to remove all water is vital before plugging.
4. Adding Winterizing Chemicals
Once the equipment is drained and isolated, add your winterizing chemical kit. These kits typically include:
Winterizing Algaecide: To prevent algae growth over the long winter months.
Pool Shock: To eliminate any lingering contaminants and give your pool a final sanitizing boost.
Stain Inhibitor/Metal Sequestrant: To prevent mineral deposits and staining.
Follow the product instructions carefully regarding dosage and mixing. Distribute these chemicals evenly around the pool, ideally with the water circulating for a short period if possible, then ensure the system is off.
5. Installing the Winter Cover
The final protective layer is your winter cover. There are generally two main types:
Solid Covers (with water bags or anchors): These are excellent at keeping debris out and sunlight from promoting algae growth. Ensure the cover is tightly secured to prevent wind damage and keep animals out. Fill water bags about three-quarters full to allow for ice expansion.
Safety Covers (mesh or solid material secured with springs and anchors): These offer superior safety, preventing accidental falls, and are incredibly durable. Mesh covers allow rainwater to pass through, avoiding large water accumulation on top, but also allow some fine debris and sunlight. Solid safety covers, like solid regular covers, keep everything out but require a cover pump to remove standing water.
Whichever type you use, ensure it’s installed tautly and securely. A properly installed cover is your pool’s first line of defense against the elements.
6. Final Checks and Storage
Remove and Store Accessories: Take out ladders, diving boards (if removable), handrails, pool cleaners, and solar blankets. Clean them thoroughly and store them in a dry, protected area.
Check for Leaks: Before completely walking away, do a final check around your equipment pad for any drips or water where there shouldn’t be.
Secure the Area: Place any heavy items or warning signs around the pool area if necessary, especially if you have pets or small children.
Enjoying Your Winterized Pool (Mentally)
Once these steps are completed, you can rest easy. You’ve taken proactive measures to safeguard your pool against winter’s harsh conditions. This diligent process saves you time, money, and significant effort when spring arrives. You won’t face green water, cracked pipes, or damaged equipment. Instead, you’ll uncover a pristine pool, ready for a quick clean and refill, eager to be enjoyed once again. A stress-free winter prep truly means a stress-free spring.
