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6 Tips for Closing Your Backyard Pool as Summer Ends

Now that summer is winding down, it's time to close your pool for the year. Read here for tips on closing your backyard pool.
Sep 11, 2024 | 3 min read
6 Tips for Closing Your Backyard Pool as Summer Ends
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As summer comes to a close and cooler weather approaches, it’s time to start thinking about closing your backyard pool for the season. 

Properly shutting down your pool protects your investment and ensures an easy reopening when warm weather returns next year. Whether you’re a first-time pool owner or a seasoned pro, following the right steps for pool closure is key to preventing damage and costly repairs.

Here are some essential tips to help you close your backyard pool like a pro.

1. Clean and Balance the Water

Before closing your pool, ensure the water is clean and chemically balanced. Skim the surface, vacuum the pool floor, and clean out the skimmer baskets to remove debris. Keeping the pool free of dirt, leaves, and other debris helps prevent stains and algae growth over the winter months.

Next, test and balance the pool water’s pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels. Proper water chemistry protects the pool surfaces and equipment during the off-season. Consider adding a winterizing algaecide and shock treatment to prevent algae blooms and keep the water fresh throughout the winter.

2. Protect Pool Equipment

Properly winterizing your pool equipment is essential to avoid damage during the colder months. Start by turning off and draining the pool pump, filter, heater, and other connected equipment. For inground pools, blow out the water from the plumbing lines to prevent freezing, which can cause pipes to crack. If you’re uncomfortable handling this step, consider hiring a professional to assist with winterization.

Remove any detachable components, such as ladders, diving boards, or handrails, and store them indoors to protect them from weather-related wear and tear.

3. Secure the Pool Cover

Investing in a high-quality pool cover is one of the best ways to protect your pool over the winter. A durable cover will help keep debris out, prevent water evaporation, and reduce the risk of accidents. Depending on your needs and budget, you can choose between a safety cover, mesh cover, or solid cover.

Make sure the cover fits securely over the pool. It's important to check the cover periodically throughout the off-season to ensure it remains tight, damage-free, and clear of any standing water or debris. Keeping the cover in good condition will make reopening your pool in the spring much easier.

4. Check HOA Rules

If your home is part of a homeowners association (HOA), make sure to check any pool closure guidelines they have in place. Some HOAs may have specific rules regarding the type of cover you should use, maintenance requirements, or pool inspections during the off-season. Following these guidelines will help ensure you comply with your community’s regulations and avoid potential fines.

5. Inspect Before Closing

Before closing your pool for the season, thoroughly inspect the entire pool area. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks in the deck, loose tiles, or malfunctioning equipment. Addressing these issues now will prevent them from worsening over the winter and save you from costly repairs when reopening.

Remember, properly closing your pool now leads to an easier, stress-free reopening in the spring. By ensuring everything is in good condition before winter sets in, you’ll be ahead of the game when warm weather returns.

6. Prepare the Area Around Your Pool

Before officially closing your pool for the season, tidy up the area surrounding the pool. Trim any overhanging trees or shrubs that could drop leaves or debris into the water. This will minimize the amount of maintenance needed throughout the fall and winter.

Store outdoor furniture, pool toys, and accessories in a dry, protected area to avoid damage from weather or freezing temperatures. This will keep your pool space clean and ready for next season.

7. Monitor the Pool Over the Winter

While you don’t need to worry about daily maintenance, it’s a good idea to check on your pool occasionally during the off-season. Inspect the cover for tears or sagging, remove any standing water, and clear away leaves or debris that may have accumulated. Taking a few minutes to monitor your pool will prevent potential issues from snowballing into bigger problems.

Secure Your Pool for a Worry-Free Winter and Easy Reopening

By following these tips, you can ensure that your backyard pool remains in excellent condition through the cooler months and is ready for a stress-free reopening when summer returns. A little bit of planning and preparation now can save you time and money next year.

If you’re on an HOA board and looking for guidance around closing the community pool at summer’s end, check out our recent blog for board members.

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