What You Should Do at the End of Pool Season

As summer winds down, it’s time to start thinking about putting your pool to rest for the colder months. Proper end-of-season maintenance ensures your pool stays in top shape and avoids costly issues during winter. Whether you're closing your pool for the year or just pausing use, these tips will help you protect your investment and make spring reopening easier.

Why Pool Closing Matters More Than You Think

Closing your pool is more than just throwing on a cover it’s a critical process that affects:

• Water chemistry and equipment lifespan.

• Prevention of algae growth, staining, and surface damage.

• Reduced maintenance costs in spring.

• Avoiding freeze damage in colder climates.

Skipping steps now can lead to cracked pipes, cloudy water, or even a full-scale cleanup next year.

Step-by-Step Pool Closing Checklist

1. Deep Clean the Pool

Before shutting things down, remove debris, brush surfaces, and vacuum the pool floor. Leaving organic matter in the water encourages algae and bacteria growth.

• Skim and clean thoroughly.

• Backwash the filter.

• Empty skimmer and pump baskets.

2. Balance the Water Chemistry

Test and adjust the following levels 5–7 days before closing:

• pH: 7.2–7.6

• Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm

• Calcium Hardness: 200–400 ppm

• Chlorine: 1–3 ppm

Add a pool closing chemical kit or winterizing shock for added protection.

3. Lower the Water Level (if needed)

In freeze-prone areas, lower the water below the skimmer to avoid ice expansion damage. If your pool has a vinyl liner, don’t drain too low—consult a pro.

4. Drain & Store Equipment

Disconnect, clean, and store accessories like:

• Pool cleaner hoses.

• Solar covers.

• Ladders and diving boards.

• Chlorinators or feeders.

Blow out the lines and use pool antifreeze if winterizing in freezing regions.

5. Cover the Pool Securely

Choose a durable winter or safety cover. Ensure it’s fitted properly to prevent debris from entering or animals from falling in.

Not sure your system is ready? Schedule a pool closing service to ensure every step is handled correctly.

Special Considerations for Mild Climates

If you live in a warmer region and don’t fully close your pool:

• Continue weekly water testing.

• Run the pump during overnight cold snaps.

• Use a solar or mesh cover to minimize debris.

Helpful Extras to Extend Pool Life

In addition to the basics, here are a few optional (but smart) end-of-season upgrades:

• Filter cleaning: Schedule a deep clean before closing.

• Calcium treatment: Prevent scale buildup during winter.

• Vinyl patching: Repair small tears before they worsen.

• Waterline tile descaling: Avoid crusty mineral deposits come spring.

• Book a one-time service for these tasks without committing to a full plan.

Related Read: Tips to Extend Pool Season

Final Thoughts

Prepping your pool at the end of the season doesn’t have to be stressful. With a clear checklist and a little planning, you can avoid costly repairs and make next year’s reopening easier.

FAQs

Can I just leave the pool uncovered if I live in a warm climate?

While not required in mild areas, covering your pool reduces cleaning, evaporation, and chemical loss, even if it doesn’t freeze.

Do I need to add algaecide when closing the pool?

Yes. Algaecide is a helpful preventative step to stop blooms from forming during the dormant months.

What happens if I don’t blow out the lines before winter?

In freeze-prone areas, water can expand in the pipes and cause cracks, leaks, or burst lines leading to expensive repairs.

Is it too late to close my pool in late fall?

It’s not too late, but waiting too long increases the risk of debris buildup or freeze damage. Aim to close before temps drop below 60°F consistently.

Should I clean the filter before or after winter?

Ideally, do both. Clean thoroughly before closing, and check it again before reopening in spring.