Closing your pool properly in the fall can save you a ton of time, money, and frustration when spring rolls around. Whether you live in a freezing climate or just want to give your pool a break, a solid closing routine keeps your water clean and your equipment protected through the off-season.
Start by timing it right. Wait until your pool water drops below 60°F (15°C). That’s the point where algae growth slows down, and your winter chemicals will last longer. Closing too early while the water’s still warm can lead to cloudy or green water come spring.
Clean thoroughly. Remove all leaves and debris, brush the walls, and vacuum the floor. Clean the skimmer and pump baskets, and give your filter a deep clean—whether it’s sand, cartridge, or DE.
Balance the water. Make sure pH, total alkalinity, and calcium hardness are in range. Then shock the pool and add a winter algaecide. This will help prevent staining and algae blooms while your pool’s covered.
Lower the water level. If you’re in a freeze zone, lower the water just below the skimmer and blow out the lines. Use skimmer plugs or gizmos to prevent freeze damage. If you have a mesh cover, you may not need to lower it as much.
Cover it up. Use a properly fitting winter cover tightly secured to keep out debris and sunlight. Double-check for any gaps or spots where water or critters might sneak in.
With just a few extra steps now, you’ll be diving into clear, balanced water when spring arrives—instead of battling stains, algae, and broken parts.
Start by timing it right. Wait until your pool water drops below 60°F (15°C). That’s the point where algae growth slows down, and your winter chemicals will last longer. Closing too early while the water’s still warm can lead to cloudy or green water come spring.
Clean thoroughly. Remove all leaves and debris, brush the walls, and vacuum the floor. Clean the skimmer and pump baskets, and give your filter a deep clean—whether it’s sand, cartridge, or DE.
Balance the water. Make sure pH, total alkalinity, and calcium hardness are in range. Then shock the pool and add a winter algaecide. This will help prevent staining and algae blooms while your pool’s covered.
Lower the water level. If you’re in a freeze zone, lower the water just below the skimmer and blow out the lines. Use skimmer plugs or gizmos to prevent freeze damage. If you have a mesh cover, you may not need to lower it as much.
Cover it up. Use a properly fitting winter cover tightly secured to keep out debris and sunlight. Double-check for any gaps or spots where water or critters might sneak in.
With just a few extra steps now, you’ll be diving into clear, balanced water when spring arrives—instead of battling stains, algae, and broken parts.
