Temperatures are dropping and the swimming season is nearing its end. It’s time to start thinking about closing the pool for winter. Do you need a checklist of what to do? Just want to make sure you're doing everything right? We’re here to help you with this job.
Why is it important to spend time closing the pool?
There are several reasons to winterize your pool properly at the end of summer:
To prevent frost damage
The water must be removed from all your equipment. Otherwise it could freeze and cause cracks or breakage that would force you to replace certain parts. It would be annoying to have to fork out money for that! Emptying the pool itself should be done according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Generally, it must be emptied to a pre-established water level.
To protect the pool accessories, lining and structure
Snow and strong winds can cause a lot of damage. So you need to put away all the equipment and install a protective cover over the pool before the cold arrives.
To make the opening easier
The process of opening up the pool will be so much quicker and simpler if everything is in good condition. It will also be easier to re-establish the pH if the proper products were used to winterize the pool, for instance, a winter algaecide.
How to close an above-ground pool properly
Here are the recommended steps to close and protect your pool:
1. Clean the pool, removing all leaves, debris and dirt. Use a skimmer, then vacuum the bottom and sides.
2. Time for draining! Stop the pump and empty the pool as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Please note that the water you drain from the pool must go into the ground, never into the public road.
3. Check the pH and chlorine levels to get the right chemical balance in the water.
4. Buy a pool closing kit from your retailer and add the recommended products. Treat the water to eliminate contaminants and algae. A shock treatment and winter algaecide may be needed to prepare your pool for the coming winter.
5. Unplug everything: filters, pumps, water heater, etc.
6. Close pipe fittings and put caps on the water lines to protect them from the cold.
7. Remove water from the remaining equipment. You can reuse that water to wash the filters, skimmers and water jets. If needed, use an air blower to expel water from the pipes.
8. Let everything dry and then put away the smaller accessories in a bag.
9. Store your accessories in a shed or the garage. Everything should be dry before putting it away to prevent damage (cracks, mould, etc.)
10. Install a winter tarp or cover on the pool. Use cables to fix it in place. Keep an eye out over the winter to make sure the cover doesn't move.
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