How to Close Your Pool for the Winter

The thought of closing a pool for winter is never a joyous one. It reminds us that, for several months at least, there will be no more swimming, diving and relaxing poolside. But anyone who has had to get a pool back up and running come springtime will tell you that proper winterization makes it a whole lot easier and protects pool equipment from costly damage.

The Pool Guy has put together a list of the best pool tips for winter. The step-by-step guide will help you close your pool for the winter whether you’re a beginner or seasoned pool owner.

Winter Swimming Pool To-Dos and Must-Haves

Step 1: Balance the Water

Once your water gets down to 65° F it’s time to start the closing process. Balancing your water is a crucial first step that should happen several days before you close it up. An expert can analyze a water sample if you need help figuring out the exact pH, alkaline and calcium hardness levels.

Step 2: Clean the Pool

Once your water is balanced the next step is to thoroughly clean the pool. This involves vacuuming, brushing and skimming to get out all the debris. Next scrub around the waterline and clean the skimmer to remove dirt that can become a breeding ground for bacteria.

Step 3: Clean the Filter

You must chemically clean the filter to keep it in good working condition over the winter. This is a preventative maintenance step that will also ensure the filter is running strong when you fire it back up in the spring.

Step 4: Treat the Water

Now it’s time to add shock to the water as well as an algae protector. The Bioguard Artic Blue Winter Kits contain both products, which works together to keep the water clean throughout the winter. First add the shock then follow up with the Algae Protector. BioGuard Winter Algicide 40 is another good option for keeping water algae-free. Once the shock and an algae protectant are added run the pump for 24-48 hours.

Step 5: Remove and Winterize Other Equipment

While the pump is running start removing nonessential equipment like ladders, skimmers and wall fittings. Use the manufacturer’s suggestions for each to properly winterize your equipment.

Step 6: Drain Pumps, Filters and Other Pool Equipment

After running the pump for 24-48 hours it’s best to drain it as well as other pool equipment to prevent possible damage from freezing. Again, refer to the manufacturer’s suggestions on the best way to drain equipment.

Step 7: Cover Your Pool

The final step is to cover your clean, treated pool to keep out all the debris, bacteria and algae. If you have a white plaster pool and want to provide continuous chlorination throughout the winter put a BioGuard Winter Floater in the water before covering.

That’s it. Seven simple steps to closing your pool for winter.