Step-by-Step Pool Closing Instructions
When the weather starts to cool, it's important to know how to properly close your facility's or property's swimming pool. Properly closing a pool in the fall can save you money on costly repairs and prep work when it comes time to reopen the pool in the spring.
What You Need to Do
- Properly Balance Pool Water to Prevent It from Becoming Corrosive or Producing Heavy Calcium Buildup
-
Balance the Pool Water Chemistry (Typically to the Following Levels)
- pH: 7.2 – 7.6
- Total Alkalinity: 80 – 120 Parts per Million (PPM) [80 – 120 Ml/L]
- Calcium Hardness: 180 – 220 Parts per Million (PPM)
- Add Winterizing Algaecide to Kill Existing Algae, Stop Algae from Blooming, and Prevent Discoloration and Foul Smells
- Thoroughly Skim the Water to Remove Leaves, Insects, and Other Debris before Brushing and Vacuum the Pool
- Run the Filter Continuously for 24 – 48 Hours
- Remove Skimmer Baskets, Cleaners, Ladders, Hoses, Filters, Solar Blankets, and Other Equipment and Accessories
- Lower the Water Level 6" (150mm) below the Skimmer Level at the Prescribed Rate of 1" (25mm) per Hour
- Drain All Pumping, Filtering, Heating, and Sanitizing Equipment to Prevent Damage Caused by Freezing
- Lubricate O-Rings, Valves and Plugs
- Winterize the Plumbing by Blowing out the Lines to Protect Them against Freezing
- Plug the Lines with Expansion Plugs
- Cover the Pool with a Tight-Fitting Cover
