The nights are starting to get a little cooler (40 degrees or lower), and pool owners recognize this as the first sign that the season is getting ready to change. Days warm enough to swim gradually decrease until they are regularly overtaken by days too cold to swim. At some point, there’s no denying it anymore, pool season is over!
When it comes time to prepare to close your pool, taking the time to do it right will prevent problems during the winter and help avoid delays in opening your pool when warm weather returns. About three days to a week before you close your pool, start preparing it. Adjust the chemical balance of the water to the following ranges:
pH: 7.2-7.6
Alkalinity: 80-120ppm
Calcium hardness: 180-220ppm
Reduce filter times gradually over a week
Once this is done, shock treat the pool, following the directions on the package. When the chlorine level is between 1.0 and 3.0, a winter algaecide can be added and will not interfere with the effectiveness of the algaecide.
To prevent damage from freezing and/or snow, these items should be removed from the pool and stored over the winter:
Skimmer slippers (all pools)
Wall accessories (all pools)
Pool cleaners (all pools)
Stairs (elevated pools)
Covers and rails (above ground pools)
Solar covers (all pools)
Some pool covers require the water level to be lowered. Check the pool cover manufacturer’s recommendations. Use a submersible pump or filter pump to lower the water level if necessary.
Remove all plugs from equipment such as pumps, heaters, and chlorinators. Completely drain all equipment. If necessary, blow out the equipment so there is no water left to freeze and damage the pool equipment. Whenever possible, remove the pump and store it indoors. The DE filter screens and cartridges will need to be removed and cleaned. It is recommended to lubricate all o-rings and for gas heaters with cast iron plugs it is a good idea to lubricate the threads.
The pool should be as clean and clear as possible. If you’ve been maintaining the pool properly, it shouldn’t be much work to skim and vacuum the pool.
For in-ground pools, if you can’t blow out the lines, add antifreeze, following package directions. Once the lines are safe from freezing, install expansion plugs. For above ground pools, the lines can be disconnected. Putting large air pillows in an above ground pool will help protect the liner.
When the pool is clear and the water is clean and with the desired chemical levels, it is time to cover it. A properly fitting cover is essential for proper pool closure.