How to Close Inground Pool for Winter - Complete Guide

Closing your inground pool for the winter is crucial to maintain its condition and ensure it’s ready for use when warm weather returns. This overview covers every step from determining the right time to close your pool to the final steps of cleaning and covering.

For more information on whether to close your pool, check out our article on is it better to close your pool in the winter or leave it open?

When To Close Inground Pool for Winter

Closing your pool at the right time is essential to prevent algae growth and protect it from winter weather. Typically, you should wait until the temperature consistently stays below 65°F (18°C). This helps to prevent algae growth, which thrives in warmer conditions. Geographic location also plays a significant role, so adjust your timing based on local weather patterns and predictions. For more tips on pool maintenance, read our guide on how to open your pool.

Steps for Closing Inground Pool for Winter

Follow this guide to ensure a smooth and effective closing process:

1. Test and Balance the Water:
   • Start by testing your pool water's pH, total alkalinity, and calcium hardness.
   • Adjust these levels to be within the recommended ranges to prevent corrosion and scale buildup during the winter.
   • Properly balanced water helps protect the pool surface and equipment.
2. Clean the Pool Thoroughly:
   • Remove any debris using a skimmer, and vacuum the pool to ensure it’s spotless.
   • Clean the walls and floor to prevent algae growth and stains that can occur over the winter months.
   • Don’t forget to clean the filters thoroughly to maintain water quality.
3. Adjust Water Chemistry:
   • Add the necessary winterizing chemicals, such as pool shock, algaecide, and a winter chemical kit.
   • These chemicals help prevent algae and bacteria growth during the winter. Make sure to follow the product instructions for the correct dosages.
4. Lower the Water Level:
   • Drain the pool water below the skimmer level to prevent freezing damage. However, do not completely drain the pool as this can lead to structural damage.
   • Lowering the water level just enough helps protect the plumbing lines and skimmers from freezing and cracking.
5. Blow Out the Lines:
   • Use an air compressor to blow out any remaining water from the plumbing lines. This step is crucial to prevent the pipes from freezing and cracking during the winter.
   • Seal the lines with winterizing plugs to ensure no water re-enters.
6. Add Winter Pool Cover:
   • Securely cover the pool with a winter pool cover to keep out debris and protect it from winter elements.
   • Ensure the cover is tightly fitted and secured with water bags or a cover pump to keep it in place. This helps prevent debris from accumulating in the pool and reduces the risk of damage.

Adjusting Water Chemistry

Balancing your pool’s water chemistry is crucial for winterization. Here’s what you need to do:

• pH Level: Adjust to between 7.2 and 7.6.
• Total Alkalinity: Maintain levels between 80-120 ppm.
• Calcium Hardness: Keep it between 180-250 ppm.
• Closing Chemicals: Use a pool shock, algaecide, and a winterizing chemical kit.

For more guidance, visit our Swimming Pool Chemical Balancing Tips.

Cleaning and Covering the Pool

Proper cleaning and covering of your pool are vital to prevent damage during winter. Follow these steps to ensure your pool remains in good condition:

1. Choose the Right Cover:
   • Select a durable winter pool cover that fits securely over your pool. Options include solid covers, mesh covers, and automatic covers.
   • Ensure the cover is of high quality to withstand harsh winter conditions.
   • A properly fitted cover will keep out debris, prevent algae growth, and protect the pool from severe weather.
2. Clean the Pool:
   • Start by thoroughly skimming and vacuuming the pool to remove any dirt or debris. Scrub the walls and floor to eliminate algae and prevent staining.
   • Backwash or clean your filter to remove any trapped debris, ensuring it’s in good condition for next season.
   • Pay special attention to the waterline, where buildup tends to occur.
   • Use a pool brush for hard-to-reach areas and ensure all debris is removed before covering the pool.
3. Close the Pool:
   • Take out any removable items such as ladders, baskets, skimmer nets, and toys. Store them in a dry place to prevent damage and ensure they are clean and ready for the next season.
   • Place all removable accessories in a dry, safe location. Removing these items helps avoid any potential damage they could cause to the pool or cover during winter.
   • Ensure the winter cover is securely fastened, using water bags, cover clips, or other securing mechanisms to keep it in place.

For additional advice, see our How to Clean and Maintain Your Swimming Pool.

Necessary Equipment and Chemicals

To close your pool efficiently, you'll need the following items:

• Winter pool cover
• Pool skimmer
• Pool brush and vacuum
• Pool shock
• Algaecide
• Winterizing chemical kit
• Air pillow (for above-ground pools)
• Pool antifreeze
  

How Much Does It Cost to Close a Pool

The cost of closing an inground pool can vary. Here’s a breakdown of potential expenses:

Opting for DIY can save money, but professional services ensure everything is correctly done.

How To Close an Inground Pool - Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about closing an inground pool for winter:

• How long does it take to close an inground pool properly?
  
  It typically takes 4-8 hours, depending on the pool size and your familiarity with the process.
  
  
• What is the most effective algae prevention during winter?
  
  Using a quality algaecide and maintaining proper chemical levels are key.
  
  
• Can I close my pool with water left in the plumbing lines?
  
  No, you should blow out the lines to prevent freezing and potential damage.
  
  
• How do I choose a pool cover for my inground pool?
  
  Select a cover designed for your pool size and type, ensuring it's durable and fits well.
  
  
• What steps should be taken if my pool has a sand filter?
  
  Backwash and clean the filter, then set it to winterize or remove and store it.
  
  
• Are there any special considerations for saltwater pools in winter?
  
  Yes, make sure to balance the salt levels and use a winterizing kit specifically designed for saltwater pools.