How to Properly Close Your Above-Ground Pool for Winter

Inground pool owners are not the only ones who should winterize their pools. If you own an above ground pool, it is equally important that you properly shut down your pool for winter as well. If you have been wondering, “How do you winterize an above-ground pool for the winter?” and "How do I close down by above ground pool this winter?," we have got your answer in this quick guide. Keep reading to learn more.

Why Winterization Is Important

If you want your pool to have a nice long life, it is vital that you winterize properly each year. This chore will help to ensure that all of the components of your pool last a long time.

Winterizing is also the easiest way to ensure you will have your pool up and running quickly in the spring. If you fail to winterize, you will deal with several issues next season. Pervasive algae growth, corrosion of pool components, and even winter damage to hoses and the pump. The best way to avoid all of these problems is to invest the time and money necessary for proper winter shut down.

When to Close Up for Winter

You will need to pay attention to the weather patterns of the area in which you live. Generally speaking, you should close your pool up for the off season as soon as outdoor temps reach their off season range. For instance, if the temps in your area are usually below 65 degrees F during the off season, you should close up once you reach these temps.

If the area you live in experiences a lot of warm days, however, you will need to keep watch and continually test your pool during the off season whenever a warm spell hits.

Clean Your Pool

Your first step is to give your pool a deep clean. You will need to make sure that all sediment and debris are thoroughly removed. It is recommended to use a pool vacuum for this task.

Test Chemicals

Once the pool is clean, you should have the pool water tested. The best way to do this is to send a water sample to your local pool store. These professionals will be able to check chemical levels and pH levels.

Winterizing Chemicals

If you plan to leave the water in your pool over winter, you will need to add winterizing chemicals. These additives will cut down on the growth of algae, decrease the chance of the growth of mold or bacteria, and if you add metal sequestrant, can even help to prevent corrosion of metal components during the winter as well.

Remove Hoses, Pumps, and Accessories

It is important that you remove all of the extra parts and pieces from your above ground pool. This will cut down on the chances of damage to these accessories over the winter.

Categorised in: Pool Contractors