Closing your pool at the end of the swimming season is a critical task to ensure your pool remains in good condition over the winter months and is ready for easy reopening when the warmer weather returns. Failing to properly prepare for pool closure can lead to expensive repairs, damaged equipment, and an arduous opening process. The key to a hassle-free pool closing lies in setting everything correctly before you cover it up for the season.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the essential things you need to have set before closing your pool, ensuring you protect your investment and avoid any potential mishaps during the off-season.
1. Balancing the Pool Water Chemistry
One of the most critical steps before closing your pool is to balance the water chemistry. If your pool’s water is not chemically balanced, you could face issues such as algae growth, scale formation, or corrosion during the winter.
Here’s a breakdown of what to check:- pH Level: The ideal pH range is between 7.2 and 7.6. If the pH is too high or too low, it can lead to equipment damage or algae growth.
- Total Alkalinity: Aim for a range of 80-120 ppm. Alkalinity helps to stabilize pH levels, and unbalanced alkalinity can lead to significant chemical fluctuations.
- Calcium Hardness: Ensure calcium hardness levels are between 200-400 ppm to prevent the water from becoming corrosive and damaging your pool surfaces.
- Chlorine Levels: The chlorine level should be around 1-3 ppm. Shock the pool with chlorine a few days before closing to eliminate any contaminants and prevent algae growth over the winter.
Using a pool monitoring system like Sutro can make water balancing a breeze. Sutro constantly monitors your water’s pH, chlorine levels, and other key factors, providing real-time updates and recommendations on how to balance your water chemistry effectively before closing.
2. Shocking the Pool
Shocking the pool involves adding a large dose of chlorine to kill bacteria, algae, and any other microorganisms in the water. This is particularly important before closing your pool, as it ensures the water is clean and free from contaminants that could multiply during the winter.- When to Shock: Shock your pool a few days before closing it. Allow the chlorine levels to return to normal after shocking, as high chlorine levels can damage your pool cover.
- Type of Shock: Use a chlorine-based shock if you’ve had issues with algae during the season. If your pool has been well-maintained, a non-chlorine shock might suffice.
After shocking, make sure to retest the water to ensure the chemical levels are back within the normal range before closing.
3. Cleaning the Pool Thoroughly
Debris left in the pool can stain the liner or surface and become a breeding ground for algae. Before closing your pool, it’s essential to clean it thoroughly.- Skim and Vacuum: Remove any leaves, twigs, insects, and debris from the water. Vacuum the pool floor and walls to get rid of any dirt or algae.
- Brush the Walls: Brushing the walls and pool floor helps to dislodge any algae or dirt stuck to the surfaces, which could cause staining or damage over the winter.
Don’t forget to clean your pool accessories such as ladders, skimmers, and diving boards. These can harbor dirt and debris, which could leach into your pool water during the off-season.
4. Lowering the Water Level
It’s important to lower the water level to prevent damage from freezing temperatures. If the water level is too high, ice can form and expand, potentially cracking your pool walls, tiles, or skimmers.- How Much to Lower: For an in-ground pool, reduce the water level to just below the skimmer opening or tile line. For above-ground pools, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Precautions: Be careful not to drain too much water, as this can damage your pool’s structural integrity. Leaving too little water can also cause the liner to shrink or crack.
With Sutro’s real-time monitoring, you can ensure your water level remains within the recommended range throughout the closing process, so you’re not caught off guard by fluctuating levels.
5. Cleaning and Storing Pool Equipment
Your pool equipment should be properly cleaned and stored to prevent damage during the winter. Failing to maintain your equipment can lead to costly replacements in the spring.
- Pump and Filter: Clean your pump and filter to remove any debris or residue. For sand filters, backwash to flush out the dirt; for cartridge filters, rinse them thoroughly.
- Heaters and Chlorinators: Ensure your pool heater and chlorinator are also cleaned and fully drained of water. Freezing water can cause severe damage to these systems.
- Remove and Store Accessories: Detach pool accessories like ladders, handrails, and diving boards. Clean them and store them in a dry, safe location where they won’t be exposed to the elements.
6. Winterizing Your Pool Plumbing
Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your pool’s plumbing system if water is left inside the pipes. When water freezes, it expands, leading to burst pipes or damaged equipment.- Blow Out the Lines: Use an air compressor to blow air through the plumbing lines, removing any water inside. This step is crucial to avoid ice formation in the pipes.
- Add Antifreeze: In addition to blowing out the lines, you can add pool-specific antifreeze to the plumbing lines to provide an extra layer of protection.
- Close Off Skimmers: Use a pool plug or cover to close off your skimmers after you’ve drained the water and blown out the lines.
Taking care of your pool’s plumbing system before closing will prevent costly repairs and ensure a smooth opening in the spring.
7. Covering Your Pool Properly
The pool cover is one of the most critical elements of winterization. A well-fitting cover will keep debris out, prevent water contamination, and protect the pool from weather damage.
- Choose the Right Cover: There are different types of covers, including solid covers, mesh covers, and automatic covers. Choose one that suits your pool type and climate.
- Secure the Cover: Make sure the cover is securely fastened to prevent it from blowing off during a storm. Use water bags or other weights to hold the cover in place.
- Check for Gaps: Ensure there are no gaps where debris, animals, or snow can enter. A properly fitted cover will keep everything out of the pool during the winter months.
If you’re using a solid cover, regularly check for water accumulation on top, as this can cause it to sag and potentially tear.
8. Using Pool Enzymes for Extra Protection
While balancing your pool water and cleaning it thoroughly will go a long way in protecting your pool during the winter, adding pool enzymes provides an extra layer of protection.
- What Enzymes Do: Pool enzymes help break down organic matter such as oils, lotions, and pollen that might be left behind. They prevent staining and reduce the risk of algae growth during the winter months.
- When to Add Enzymes: Add pool enzymes a few days before closing to give them time to work. They’ll continue breaking down debris even when the pool is covered.
Adding enzymes is a great way to ensure your pool stays cleaner for longer, making the spring opening process easier.
9. Monitor the Pool During the Winter
Even after your pool is closed, it’s a good idea to periodically check on it throughout the winter. This ensures that the cover is secure, the water level is correct, and no unexpected issues arise.
- Water Level: Make sure the water level doesn’t rise too high due to rain or melting snow. If it does, use a pump to remove the excess water.
- Debris Removal: If you’re using a solid cover, remove any debris that collects on top. Excess weight from debris or snow can damage the cover and affect your pool’s safety.
Closing your pool properly is essential for its long-term health and maintenance. By balancing your water chemistry, cleaning thoroughly, protecting your equipment, and ensuring your pool is securely covered, you’ll avoid costly repairs and make opening your pool in the spring much easier. Utilizing tools like the Sutro pool monitor can simplify the process and give you peace of mind throughout the off-season.