10 Things to Do Before Closing Your Pool

We may be enjoying the last bits of summer, but the swimming season will come to an end before we know it. (Cue the tears. We don’t want it to end.) 

We know that closing your pool isn’t the most fun task, but it doesn’t have to be difficult or stressful. Here are 10 things you can do right now to make closing your pool quick, easy, and stress-free when the time comes. 

1. Stock Up On Pool Supplies

It may still be summer, but now is the time to stock up on your pool closing supplies — including winter pool covers, air pillows, and winterizing chemicals. Ordering early ensures that you have them on hand and aren’t dealing with shipping delays or out of stock items when you’re ready to close your pool. 

2. Buy a New Liner

If you’ve been thinking about a new liner or your current one is in rough shape, consider buying one now. It’s the best time of year to buy a pool liner.  There’s always a big rush in the spring and summer, which means your preferred liner color or design may not be available during the busy season. If you order now, you’ll have one less thing to worry about or wait for when all you want to do is open your pool and dive in when it’s hot outside.

3. Clean Up Your Yard

 Before you begin the process of closing your above ground pool, take a moment to clean up your yard. Trim back any overhanging branches or bushes that could shed leaves or debris into the pool cover over the winter. Clear away sticks, leaves, and other debris from around the pool area to prevent them from accumulating on the cover or around the pool base, which could lead to damage or make the opening process more cumbersome in the spring. Proper yard maintenance makes for smoother winterization and sets you up for an easier and quicker pool opening next season.

4. Upgrade Your Storage

As you prepare to close your pool, it’s essential to think about how and where you’ll store your pool equipment and accessories during the winter months.  Winter storage and organization is key  to protecting your pool gear. Get prepped before it’s time to close your pool. Invest in new tote bins if needed and take some time to organize your garage, shed, or basement where you keep your pool equipment and accessories. When everything is labeled, organized, and protected from the elements during the off-season, you’ll have a much easier reopening in the spring.

5. Clean the Pool Thoroughly

If you clean your pool now, you’ll have less work to do later. You don’t want any nasty surprises in a few months. Take the time to remove sticks, leaves, insects, and other debris. Scrub the pool walls and floor to prevent algae buildup and staining during the winter months. We recommend a professional cleaning at least once a year, so this could be a good time. 

6. Balance the Water Chemistry

You may wonder why it’s important to check the water chemistry when you don’t plan on using your pool for the next few months, but good water chemistry is key to preventing major mold, algae, and other issues during the winter months. Test your pool water a week or so before closing. 

• pH Levels: 7.2 and 7.6
• Alkalinity: 80-120 ppm
• Calcium Hardness: 200-400 ppm
• Chlorine Levels: 10-12 ppm. This helps prevent algae growth during the off-season.

7. Lower the Water Level

If you won’t be doing any more swimming, lower the water level in preparation for closing. For an above ground pool, lower the water to about 4-6 inches below the skimmer level. This step is crucial for winterizing your pool, but remember—NEVER fully drain the pool. Draining it completely can cause severe damage to the liner and other pool equipment, as above-ground pools rely on the water to maintain their structural integrity.

8. Inspect Equipment & Accessories

Take the time to do a good once-over of all your pool accessories, including pool pumps and filters. If you need to replace or fix anything, it’s good to do that now before it’s out of sight, out of mind for the winter season. 

9. Schedule Your Pool Closing

Schedules fill up quickly this time of year. Pool professionals can book out a few weeks in advance for pool cleaning and closing services. Even if you plan to close your pool yourself, it’s helpful to set a date ahead of time to ensure no other obligations take over and enlist a family member or friend is available to help you out. 

10. Review Our Pool Closing Guide 

Don’t forget to check out our step-by-step winterization guide to close your pool quickly and efficiently. That way, you’ll be prepped and ready to go when it’s time to complete the pool closing process.