How Do You Close Your Swimming Pool for the Season?

As summer comes to an end, pool owners have one more important job to take care of before the weather gets cold: closing the pool.

Properly closing your swimming pool can help protect your water, equipment, plumbing, and pool cover during the winter months. It can also make opening the pool next season much easier.

If you are a DIY pool owner, you may be wondering where to start. The good news is that with some preparation and the right products, you can get your pool ready for the off-season.

Start With Clean, Balanced Water

Before you close your pool, make sure the water is in good condition.

This means removing leaves and other debris, brushing the pool walls and floor, and vacuuming the pool. You also want to have your water tested and balanced before you begin the winterizing process.

Paying attention to your water chemistry before closing is important. Your pH, alkalinity, calcium, and chlorine levels all play a role in the condition of your pool while it is closed.

At Webster & Sons Pools and Spas, we encourage pool owners to bring in a water sample before closing. Our team can test the water and help you determine what your pool needs before you begin winterizing.

Don't Skip the Pool Shock

Pool shock is an important part of getting your pool ready for the winter.

A strong shock treatment helps address contaminants that build up in pool water throughout the swimming season. This includes the organic material introduced by swimmers, weather, and the environment.

The amount of shock your pool needs can vary based on its size, water chemistry, and current condition. That is why we do not recommend simply guessing at the amount.

At Webster & Sons Pools and Spas, we can test your water and look at the overall condition of your pool before recommending how much shock you should use.

Once the pool has been shocked, give the treatment time to work before adding other winterizing products. Following the directions for the specific products you use is important.

Prepare Your Pool for the Cold Weather

Once your water has been cleaned and treated, you will need to prepare your pool and equipment for the winter.

Depending on your pool and equipment, this may include lowering the water level, draining water from the pump and filter, and removing water from the plumbing lines.

Water left inside pool equipment or plumbing can cause problems when temperatures drop. Your pool may have different equipment or plumbing than another pool, so it is important to understand your specific system before you begin.

You should also remove pool accessories that should not remain outside during the winter. Ladders, handrails, baskets, toys, and other removable items should be cleaned, dried, and stored in a safe place.

Protect Your Pool From Winter Algae

Even when your pool is closed, it still needs protection.

Winterizing products such as algaecide can help prevent algae from becoming a problem while the pool is not being used. Some pool owners may also use products designed to help prevent stains and scale buildup.

Always follow the instructions on the product you are using. If you are unsure which products your pool needs, ask the team at Webster & Sons Pools and Spas.

Finish With a Secure Pool Cover

Once the pool has been properly prepared, it is time to cover it.

Your pool cover should fit securely and be properly fastened. A good cover helps keep leaves and other debris out of the pool during the winter.

It is also a good idea to check your cover from time to time throughout the winter. Weather can move or damage a cover, and catching a problem early can help protect your pool.

DIY Pool Closing Doesn't Mean You Have to Do It Alone

Closing your pool yourself does not mean you have to figure everything out on your own.

Webster & Sons Pools and Spas carries winterizing kits in the store and can order additional kits when needed. We can also test your pool water and help you determine which chemicals your pool needs before you begin the closing process.

Every pool is different, and the right winterizing routine depends on your pool's water chemistry, equipment, and condition. Getting the right information before you start can help you avoid unnecessary products and make the process much easier.

If you would rather have a professional handle the closing, Webster & Sons Pools and Spas also offers pool winterization services. Our pool closing service is $500 and includes winterizing and covering the pool using the customer's existing pool cover. The cost of chemicals needed to properly balance the water is additional and will vary based on the results of the water test.

Whether you are a DIY pool owner or prefer professional help, preparing your pool before winter arrives is an important part of protecting your investment.

Stop by Webster & Sons Pools and Spas for winterizing supplies, water testing, and advice to help you close your pool with confidence and get ready for an easier opening next season.