As the weather gets colder and the seasons change, it is important to learn how to close your above-ground pool correctly. This will keep your pool safe during the inactive months and make it easier to reopen when it gets warmer again.
Grasp the simple steps on “how to close an above ground pool to protect your investment and make it easier to start swimming again next season.
What Is the Right Time to Close Your Above Ground Pool?
Before you start closing your pool, you need to know when the right time is. For most people, September or October is best, especially when the days get cooler. However, it depends on where you live and the weather.
So, the easiest way is to check the temperature. It’s best to close your pool when it’s regularly below 65°F. If you close it earlier, the warm water can get algae, which makes it harder to clean in spring. Using the temperature to decide when to close your pool protects it from the cold and keeps algae and bacteria from growing too much.
Closing the Above Ground Pool
It’s important to keep running your filter and adding chlorine to your pool until you close it for the season, even if you are not swimming in it. This helps close your pool easier and stops the water from getting bad before you close it for good. Following are the 9 easy steps to do it:
- Thorough Cleaning
Before you close your above-ground pool for the winter, give it a good clean. Vacuum the bottom, brush the walls, and skim off any debris floating on the surface. This helps prevent algae and other problems over the winter. - Balance the Water
Check and adjust the water in your pool to ensure it’s just right before closing it up. The pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels should be in the proper range. Also, add special chemicals to protect the water during winter. - Add Winter Chemicals
To keep your pool safe during winter, add special winterizing chemicals. Follow the instructions carefully and use a kit that includes everything you need. - Protect the Pump and Filter
Protect your pump and filter from damage by adding a special liquid protector. Make sure everything is shut off properly and stored away safely. - Seal Off Return and Skimmer
To prevent damage from ice, seal off the return and skimmer with plugs. This stops water from getting in and freezing, which can cause problems. - Prep the Filter for Winter
Disconnect and clean your filter, then store it indoors. This helps prevent damage from freezing temperatures. - Clear Out the Pool
Take out anything that’s not supposed to be in the pool, like ladders and mats. Only leave in the winterizing items and an ice equalizer pillow. - Set Up the Ice Equalizer Pillow
Blow the ice equalizer pillow and tie it securely in the pool’s center. This helps absorb pressure from ice and protect the cover. - Cover the Pool
Finally, cover your pool with the right size cover and secure it tightly. Use clips, cables, and a winch to keep it in place, especially in windy areas.
Final Verdict
Many folks dream of having a pool in their backyard, but sometimes, they jump in without understanding what it involves. It can be daunting to do the seasonal care, but not if you know the steps to close an above-ground pool.
Don’t own a pool yet? Contact Town & Country Pools for a customized one. Call us at (281) 252-6337.