How To Close an Above Ground Pool
Wondering how to close an above ground pool? If so, we put together a list of steps for you to follow to make sure your pool is clean and clear when you open in the spring.
Here’s how to close an above ground pool in eight easy steps.
#1: Balance Your Water
The first thing you want to do is bring us a sample of your water. We will run it through our computerized system and give you a printout of the results and what you need to add to your pool.
Do this three-five days before you close your pool.
The water must be balanced before you close your pool. Generally speaking, your water chemistry should be in these ranges:
- pH 7.4-7.6
- Total alkalinity should be 125-175 for saltwater pools and 150-175 for chlorine and biguanide pools.
- Calcium Hardness: 180-220 ppm
#2: Shock Your Pool
Once your water chemistry is balanced, you want to shock your pool. Do this a couple of days before you close your pool.
Why shock your above ground pool? You do this to remove any contaminants and help ensure you don’t open your pool in the spring to stains and algae.
After shocking, brush the floor and walls.
#3: Clean Your Pool
You want to do this on the day you close your pool.
We’re talking vacuuming, brushing the floor and walls again and cleaning the skimmer basket.
Your goal is to put the cover on your pool only if it’s completely clean. You don’t want any signs of debris such as dirt and leaves before you close.
#4: Add Winter Closing Chemicals
You want to help your water stay balanced all winter long. Add winter algaecide and chemical floaters to your pool to keep it clean.
Consider some of our winter products from BioGuard.
#5: Get Rid of Accessories
Before covering your pool, take out the following items, dry them and store them for the winter in a protected place.
- Ladders and steps
- Pool cleaners
- Skimmer basket
- Fittings
- Pool alarm
On above ground pools, it’s also a great option to disconnect all equipment and bring it inside.
#6: Drain and Plug the Pipes
Before closing, you want to drain and plug your pipes so they don’t freeze. Pool antifreeze is also an option at this time.
Either drain your pipes, or for those that can’t be removed, blow the water out of them with a shop vac.
Take the pressure gauge off and preferably inside.
Questions about this step? Please ask!
#7: Drain Your Equipment
Now it’s time to drain all of the following and take these additional steps:
- Pump, filter, heating and chlorinating equipment
- Blow out all plumbing lines
- Seal pool pipes
- Clean your filters
- Shut off all power to your pump, lights and heater
#8: Cover Your Pool
You want to cover your pool with a quality pool cover that keeps dirt, debris and leaves from sneaking in during the winter.
Need a new cover? We can help.
Don’t forget to remove rain and water from your cover if it accumulates during the winter.
You’re now ready to close your above ground pool for the winter. If you have questions or need help, please contact our expert service department.
Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch with you as soon as we can.