Winterizing Your Pool: A Step-by-Step Closing Guide

As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, it is time for every pool owner to face the inevitable: pool closing season. While saying goodbye to your backyard oasis for a few months is bittersweet, a proper winterization process is the single best way to protect your investment.

Neglecting your pool during the off-season can lead to cracked pipes, ruined liners, and a massive algae headache come spring. At Nauti, we believe that doing the job right now saves you time, money, and stress later. Here is our expert, step-by-step guide to help you winterize your pool like a pro.

Deep Clean Before the Deep Freeze

The first step in any successful pool closing is a thorough cleaning. Any debris left in the water over the winter will break down, potentially staining your pool’s surface and providing fuel for algae growth.

Start by skimming the surface for floating leaves and vacuuming the floor to remove sediment. Don't forget to brush the walls and floor to loosen any microscopic spores. A clean pool ensures that your winter chemicals work more effectively and makes your spring opening significantly faster.

Balance the Water Chemistry

One of the most common mistakes owners make when they winterize pool systems is ignoring the chemistry. About a week before you plan to close, test your water. You want your levels to be within the following ranges:

• pH: 7.2 – 7.6
• Alkalinity: 80 – 120 ppm
• Calcium Hardness: 180 – 220 ppm

Balanced water protects the pool structure from corrosion and scale buildup during the months it sits idle. Once balanced, add a winterizing chemical kit, which typically includes a concentrated algaecide and a slow-release "winter pill" to keep the water clear until the temperature drops.

Lower the Water Level

To protect your tile and skimmer from the expansion of freezing water, you need to lower the water level. The depth depends on the type of pool cover you are using.

If you have a standard mesh safety cover, lower the water to about 12 to 18 inches below the skimmer. If you are using a solid vinyl pool cover, you only need to lower it about 3 to 6 inches. Never drain a pool completely for the winter, as the weight of the water is necessary to keep the liner in place or prevent a concrete shell from "popping" out of the ground due to hydrostatic pressure.

Drain and Protect Your Equipment

Water expands when it freezes, and if that water is trapped inside your pump, filter, or heater, it will crack the expensive housing. This is a critical step in the pool closing process.

Start by draining the pump, filter, and heater using the designated drain plugs. If you have a DE or cartridge filter, remove the grids or cartridges, clean them thoroughly, and store them in a dry place.

Next, you must "blow out" the plumbing lines. Using a high-volume air blower or a shop vac, force air through the pipes from the equipment pad toward the pool until you see bubbles. Once the lines are clear of water, plug the returns with expansion plugs and add non-toxic pool antifreeze to the lines for an extra layer of security.

Remove Deck Accessories

Remove ladders, handrails, diving boards, and any automated pool cleaners. Rinse them with fresh water, let them dry, and store them in a garage or shed. Leaving metal accessories exposed to the winter elements can lead to rust and pitting, while plastic components can become brittle in freezing temperatures.

Install the Pool Cover

The final step is the most visible: installing the pool cover. Whether you choose a safety cover or a basic winter tarp, the goal is the same: keep debris out and sunlight away from the water.

If you are using a safety cover, ensure the springs are tensioned correctly so the cover is taut like a trampoline. If you use a traditional solid cover, use water bags or "aquablocks" to weigh down the edges. Avoid using bricks or cinder blocks, as these can fall in and damage the liner.

Once the cover is secure, do a final walk-around to ensure everything is tucked away and protected. Throughout the winter, remember to clear heavy snow loads and excess water off the cover to prevent damage to the anchors or the material itself.

Get Expert Help from Nauti

Winterizing a pool is a labor-intensive process that requires precision to avoid costly repairs. If you aren't comfortable blowing out your own lines or handling winter chemicals, the experts at Nauti are here to help. From professional pool closing services to equipment upgrades, we connect you with the tools and talent needed to keep your pool in peak condition year-round.

Ready to put your pool to bed for the winter? Browse Nauti today to find top-rated service pros in your area and enjoy total peace of mind until the sun returns.