Closing the pool at the end of the summer can be bittersweet after spending days using it for relaxation and splashing around. Before the weather changes and leaves begin to fall, northern pool owners must prepare to close and winterize their pools.

Ideally, it would be best to make a list of the supplies and chemicals that will be needed. Find others willing to help with the job, or hire a professional company that has experience in the process. Don't procrastinate because further into the fall & winter months, supplies will be harder to find. If working with a company to close your pool, schedule time early so that you are not rushing to find a company who is available.

Cleaning the pool before closing will make reopening easier. Make sure the walls are brushed including return jets and around the skimmer to prevent algae growth.

• Algaecide, pH balancing chemicals, and sanitizer (i.e. chlorine, bromine, or non-chlorine sanitizer) Increasing the pH to between 7.2 and 7.8 prevents stains, scaling and algae growth over the winter

Alkalinity should be between 80-125ppm for plaster/gunite, 125-150 for vinyl/fiberglass pools

If using chlorine, sanitation levels should be at least 4ppm when closing. Once the cover is on, the amount of chlorine escaping due to sunlight will be reduced. A long lasting algaecide is highly recommended along with a pool water antifreeze. Ideally, run the filter at least 24 hours before closing the pool to help circulate the chemicals.

Drain the pool's water level just below the skimmer opening. Shut off the pump and drain the pump, heater, and other equipment. Then install freeze plugs. Turn off circuits, times, and outdoor outlets that power the pool equipment.

Remove the ladders, diving boards, slides, drain lines and other materials and store them indoors. Leave the diverter valve handle in a neutral position for the off season to allow ice to expand without damage. Finally place the cover.

Supplies for inground pools

• Gizzmo: goes into skimmers and are designed to absorb ice expansion during winters. It is a good idea to place teflon tape along the threads to improve the seal.
• Winter plugs, either the Hayward SP1022C 1 1/2" plug with o-ring, or a rubber expansion plug. If using a threaded plug, it is a good idea to place teflon tape along the threads to improve the seal.
• Check water bags for leaks and replace as needed. Multi-chambered water bags are better as if one chamber fails, there are others that will still work.
• Check your cover to make sure there aren't any rips or tears
• Antifreeze should be added to the skimmer/return lines, along with the chlorinator and pump.

Supplies for above ground pools

• Winter skimmer plate: prevents freeze damage by blocking water from entering the skimmer.
• Winter plugs, either the Hayward SP1022C 1 1/2" plug with o-ring, or a rubber expansion plug. If using a threaded plug, it is a good idea to place teflon tape along the threads to improve the seal.
• Air pillow: an "ice compensator" reduces the amount of outward pressure on your pool walls, which can cause damage to the cover, liner, and walls. Inflate to only 60-80% of its capacity to allow for compression and secured in the middle of the pool
• Cover clips: if living in a windy area, these are highly recommended. They secure to the top rail and prevent the cover from whipping from wind, or sagging due to the weight from water and debris. There should be 2-3 clips placed per upright.
• Check your cover to make sure there aren't any rips or tears.

If there are any questions, or need help closing your pool, please don't hesitate to contact us. We are here to help.