Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Wi-Fi Automatic Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner, Always Cleaning, Never Charging, with Wall Climbing Scrubber Brush, Ideal for In-Ground Pools up to 50 FT in Length
- ALWAYS CONNECTED: With the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus robotic pool vacuum cleaner, schedule your pool cleanings from anywhere with always connected Wi-Fi.
Hayward W3PVS20JST Poolvergnuegen Suction Pool Cleaner for In-Ground Pools up to 16 x 32 ft. (Automatic Pool Vaccum)
- The Hayward Poolvergnuegen 2-Wheel Suction PoolCleaner features patented self-adjusting turbine vanes that deliver maximum power at any flow and allow passage of large debris
Taylor Pool Water Test Kit, Complete Swimming Pool Water Test Kit, for Chlorine, pH, and Alkaline Levels, Ideal for Pools, Hot Tubs, and Spas, 1-Pack
- Comprehensive Pool & Spa Test Kit: Ensure your pool, hot tub or spa is safe and balanced with this all-in-one testing kit. It checks for free and total chlorine, pH, acid/base demand, total alkalinity, calcium hardness, and cyanuric acid.
POOL BLASTER Max Cordless Pool Vacuum for Deep Cleaning & Strong Suction, Handheld Rechargeable Swimming Pool Cleaner for Inground and Above Ground Pools, Hoseless Pool Vac by Water Tech
- DESIGNED & ENGINEERED IN USA: Comes with a 1-year warranty and USA-based customer service. USA-based business with over 20 years of experience in building cordless handheld pool vacuums
AquaChek Select Connect 7-Way Pool and Spa Test Strips Complete Kit - Pool Test Strips for pH, Total Chlorine, Free Chlorine, Bromine, Alkalinity, Total Hardness, and Cyanuric Acid - (50 Strips)
- 7-IN-1 TEST STRIPS: Tests the most critical parameters: pH, Total Chlorine, Free Chlorine, Bromine, Alkalinity, Total Hardness, & Cyanuric Acid
Are you wondering how to properly close your inground swimming pool for the season? You’re not alone. Many pool owners face the same challenge as summer slips away and the cooler months approach. A well-executed closing process can save you time and money, ensuring your pool stays in great shape until next year.
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Key Takeaways
- Follow Essential Steps: Properly closing your inground swimming pool includes cleaning, balancing water chemistry, lowering the water level, draining equipment, adding winter chemicals, and securely covering the pool.
- Water Chemistry Matters: Maintaining a balanced pH (7.2 – 7.8) and alkalinity (80 – 120 ppm) is crucial to prevent algae growth and protect the pool’s condition during the off-season.
- Prevent Freeze Damage: Lower the water level below skimmer and return jet openings to avert plumbing and equipment freeze damage, and ensure all water is drained from pool equipment.
- Use Environmentally Friendly Chemicals: When winterizing your pool, choose environmentally friendly winterizing chemicals to protect local ecosystems and prevent harmful runoff.
- Regularly Inspect the Pool: Throughout winter, conduct regular checks on the pool cover, water level, and equipment to identify and address any potential issues early.
- Ensure Safety During Closing: Prioritize personal safety by using protective gear, disposing of chemicals properly, and keeping children and pets away from the pool area during closing activities.
Overview of Closing an Inground Swimming Pool
Closing an inground swimming pool involves specific steps that protect the pool while ensuring water remains clear and equipment stays functional. This process typically takes place in the fall, as temperatures begin to drop.
Key Steps in Closing Your Pool
- Clean the Pool
Remove debris from the water and walls. Use a skimmer to collect leaves and insects. A pool vacuum can clear dirt from the bottom. - Balance the Water Chemistry
Test and adjust the water’s pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels. Aim for a pH of 7.2 – 7.8 and total alkalinity between 80 – 120 ppm. Proper chemistry prevents algae growth during winter. - Lower the Water Level
Drain water to below the skimmer and return jet openings. This prevents freeze damage to plumbing and equipment. Use a submersible pump for efficiency. - Drain Equipment
Remove water from all pool equipment, including the filter, pump, and heater. Open drain plugs and use an air compressor to blow out remaining water. - Add Winter Chemicals
Use a winterizing chemical kit that often includes algaecide and shock. These chemicals help maintain water quality over the off-season. - Cover the Pool
Secure a pool cover tightly to prevent debris and animals from entering. Use water bags or straps to hold the cover in place.
- Check Local Regulations
Familiarize yourself with any local codes regarding pool covers and safety barriers. Compliance ensures safety and meets community standards. - Inspect After Closing
Periodically check the pool during the winter months. Ensure the cover is intact and there are no issues with the water level or leaks.
By following these steps, you can successfully close your inground swimming pool, ensuring it’s ready for warmer months when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Important Safety Considerations
Closing an inground swimming pool involves several safety considerations. Keeping yourself and your surroundings safe ensures a smooth process.
Personal Safety
- Use Proper Gear: Wear gloves and protective eyewear when handling pool chemicals. These materials can be harmful to your skin and eyes.
- Employ Safe Lifting Techniques: When removing the pool cover or equipment, lift with your legs, not your back, to prevent injury.
- Avoid Slipping Hazards: Keep the surrounding area dry and clear of debris to prevent slips and falls. Work on stable surfaces whenever possible.
- Keep Children and Pets Away: Ensure kids and pets stay at a safe distance while you close the pool. Safety barriers or gates can provide extra protection during the process.
- Dispose of Chemicals Properly: Follow local regulations when disposing of pool chemicals. Improper disposal can harm the environment and water supply.
- Cover the Pool: Use a solid cover to prevent debris from entering the water. This reduces the need for chemical treatments and helps protect aquatic life.
- Monitor Wildlife: If your pool is in an area with wildlife, check the cover regularly for any trapped animals. Remove them safely to ensure their well-being.
- Consider Your Local Ecosystem: When using winterizing chemicals, choose environmentally friendly options. These prevent harmful substances from leaching into the ground or waterways.
By attending to these safety considerations, you ensure not only your safety but also the protection of the environment as you close your inground swimming pool.
Steps to Close Your Inground Swimming Pool
Closing your inground swimming pool involves a series of crucial steps to ensure its longevity and maintenance. Follow these steps for a successful close.
Preparing the Pool
Start by gathering your supplies. You need a pool cover, winterizing chemicals, a submersible pump, and a vacuum. Inspect the pool structure for any damage. Repair cracks or chips before proceeding. Removing furniture and accessories from around the pool helps create a clean working area.
Cleaning and Balancing Chemicals
Vacuum the pool thoroughly to remove debris. Brush the walls and floor to get rid of any algae or dirt. Test the water’s pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels using a testing kit. Adjust these levels as follows:
- pH: Aim for a range of 7.4 to 7.6.
- Alkalinity: Target 80 to 120 parts per million (ppm).
- Chlorine: Keep chlorine levels between 1 to 3 ppm.
Once balanced, add winterizing chemicals to prevent algae growth during the off-season. Use algaecide and a chlorine shock treatment for best results.
Draining the Water
Lower the water level in your pool. Drain to about 4 to 6 inches below the skimmer’s opening. Use a submersible pump to handle this task efficiently. Draining too low can cause damage to the pool structure, so maintain the right water level. In areas with freeze-thaw cycles, ensure the water is low enough to prevent ice damage.
Winterizing Equipment
Next, drain and store your pool equipment. Follow these steps:
- Filter: Remove and clean the sand or cartridge filter. Disconnect the filter pump and drain all water from it.
- Heater: Bypass the heater, remove the drain plugs, and ensure no water remains.
- Piping: Use an air compressor to blow out any water in the lines. This step prevents freezing and cracking during winter.
Store all equipment in a dry location to prolong its lifespan, and cover any exposed pipes with insulation to protect them from freezing temperatures.
Additional Tips for Winter Maintenance
Maintaining your inground swimming pool during winter involves specific actions that ensure its endurance and cleanliness for the next season. Below are essential tips for effective winter maintenance.
Covering the Pool
Select a durable, high-quality pool cover. Inground pool covers come in various types, including solid and mesh options. Solid covers block sunlight, preventing algae growth, while mesh covers allow rainwater to drain through.
Secure the cover properly to prevent debris accumulation. Use water bags or anchors around the edges to keep it in place during strong winds. Regularly check the cover for any damage or debris build-up; clear leaves and snow to reduce weight and prevent damage.
Regular Inspections
Inspect your pool regularly throughout winter to catch potential issues early. Check for:
- Water Levels: Ensure the water level remains below the skimmer to prevent ice damage.
- Cover Condition: Look for rips or tears in the cover that could allow debris in. Repair or replace as needed.
- Equipment: Inspect filters, pumps, and heaters for any signs of wear or damage.
Conduct these checks every few weeks to maintain your pool’s condition. Keeping a checklist of what to look for can help streamline this process and ensure you don’t miss anything important.
Conclusion
Closing your inground swimming pool doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following the right steps you can protect your investment and ensure it’s ready for next summer. Taking the time to clean and winterize your pool properly will save you hassle and expenses down the line.
Don’t forget to check your equipment and cover regularly throughout the winter to keep everything in tip-top shape. With a little effort now you’ll be able to enjoy a hassle-free opening when the warm weather returns. Happy swimming!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it important to close an inground swimming pool properly?
Closing your inground swimming pool properly at the end of summer saves time and money while preserving the pool’s condition. It prevents damage from winter weather and ensures that the pool is ready for use in the spring.
What are the key steps in closing a swimming pool?
Key steps include cleaning the pool, balancing water chemistry, lowering the water level, draining equipment, adding winter chemicals, and covering the pool. These actions protect the pool from damage and maintain its condition.
How do I balance the water chemistry before closing my pool?
To balance water chemistry, check pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels. Adjust these parameters to the recommended ranges before closing the pool to prevent issues like algae growth and corrosion during the winter months.
What should I do with pool equipment when closing?
Drain all equipment, including filters, heaters, and piping, to prevent freezing and damage. Store items like ladders and skimmers in a safe place, ideally indoors, to protect them from harsh winter conditions.
How can I winterize my pool effectively?
Use winterizing chemicals such as algaecide and chlorine shock treatment before closing. A thorough inspection for damage and a thorough cleaning of the pool help ensure effective winterization.
What type of pool cover should I use?
Choose a durable pool cover that fits your pool size properly. Ensure it is secured to prevent debris and animals from entering, and regularly inspect it for wear and tear throughout the winter.
How can I maintain my pool during the winter?
Regularly inspect the pool cover, monitor water levels, and check equipment for signs of wear or damage. Keeping a checklist can help streamline these tasks and ensure the pool remains in good condition.
Are there any safety measures to consider while closing a pool?
Yes, ensure that the area around the pool is safe, with no slippery surfaces or hazards. Always secure the pool cover to prevent accidental falls and to keep children and pets safe during winter months.
