Protect your investment with a clean, secure seasonal shutdown.
As the summer sun begins to fade and temperatures cool down, it’s time to think about closing your pool for the off-season. A proper pool closing helps prevent costly damage, keeps your water clean, and ensures an easier, faster opening next year. Whether you plan to do it yourself or hire a professional, here are essential tips for carefully and correctly closing your pool after summer.
1. Clean the Pool Thoroughly
Before shutting things down, give your pool a deep clean. Skim the surface, vacuum the floor, and brush the walls to remove dirt, debris, and algae. Leaving organic material in the pool over winter can lead to staining, algae blooms, and cloudy water come spring.
Also, clean out the skimmer baskets, pump basket, and automatic cleaner if you have one.
2. Balance the Water Chemistry
Proper water chemistry helps protect your pool’s surfaces and equipment during the winter months. Test and adjust your water to the following recommended levels:
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pH: 7.2–7.6
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Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm
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Calcium Hardness: 200–400 ppm
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Chlorine: 1–3 ppm
Once balanced, shock the pool to kill any lingering bacteria and prevent algae growth. You may also want to add a winter algaecide and a stain and scale prevention product for extra protection.
3. Lower the Water Level
Depending on your pool type and cover, you may need to lower the water level to prevent damage from freezing or overflow. Typically, this means reducing the level to just below the skimmer for mesh covers, or a few inches below the tile line for solid covers.
Important: Never completely drain an inground pool unless directed by a professional. This can cause structural damage.
4. Drain & Protect Equipment
Water left in pipes, filters, pumps, or heaters can freeze and cause cracks or damage. Be sure to:
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Drain all pool equipment including pumps, filters, and heaters.
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Blow out the lines using an air compressor or shop vac (if you’re in a freeze-prone area).
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Plug return lines and skimmers with winter plugs.
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Remove accessories like ladders, handrails, and diving boards, and store them in a dry place.
5. Cover It Right
Use a strong, well-fitted pool cover to protect your water and keep out debris. A safety cover is ideal if you want added peace of mind. Before installing, be sure the cover is clean and free of damage. Secure it tightly with water bags or anchors to prevent sagging and wind damage.
6. Monitor Periodically
Even after the pool is closed, it’s a good idea to check on it every few weeks. Remove debris from the cover, check water levels, and inspect for damage. Regular check-ins can help you catch small issues before they become costly problems.
Final Thoughts
Closing your pool properly is just as important as opening it in the spring. By taking the time to clean, balance, and protect your pool now, you’ll save time, money, and frustration later. At AZ Family Pools, we offer seasonal closing services that take the guesswork out of winterizing your pool—so you can relax knowing it’s in expert hands.
Need help with your pool closing? Contact us today to schedule your end-of-season service.