How To Close An Inground Pool? Don’t Miss These Essential Steps!

As temperatures drop and summer comes to an end, it’s time to start thinking about closing up your inground pool for the season. Properly shutting down your pool is essential to keeping it in great condition and avoiding costly repairs. To make sure you don’t miss any key steps, we’ve put together a guide on how to close an inground pool like a pro.

Closing an inground pool involves much more than simply popping on a cover and calling it a day. There are several essential steps that must be taken to protect not just the water but also the equipment, plumbing, and structure of your pool over the colder months. By following our tips, you can ensure that when spring arrives, your pool will be ready to go with minimal fuss and maintenance required.

In this article, we’ll outline everything you need to do to properly close your inground pool. From balancing the chemicals to winterizing the pipes, we’ll cover all the bases so that you can keep your pool in top shape year after year. Whether you’re a seasoned pool owner or a first-time closer, you won’t want to miss these crucial steps.

Drain the Water

Preparation for Draining

Before draining an inground pool, it is essential to take some essential steps that will make the process easy and less laborious. Firstly, start by removing any debris or leaves using a net from the pool surface as these can clog drainage pipes during the process.

You should also clean the pool walls and floor with appropriate cleaners made specifically for tile/lining of the pool surface 48 hours before starting the draining process. This step ensures that any stubborn stains are removed from the pool, leaving it spotlessly clean.

The next essential preparation is to ensure that there are no electrical connections that may come in contact with water when draining the pool. Electrical malfunctions can lead to someone getting seriously injured during the process. As such, disconnect power circuits leading into your swimming pool pump.

To prevent cracks on the pool shell, consider occasional watering or wetting down around the pool deck for added support before starting to drain the playa. Finally, ensure that you have the necessary tools like gloves, wrenches and gear before commencing this delicate activity.

Draining the Pool

Step 1: Locate your main drain valve. It is usually located at the bottom, center area of the pool wall. When opened, it releases all the pool demands till emptied.

Step 2: Inspect the backwash port of the multiport valve to ensure it is connected to the waste line properly and has no leakages.

Step 3: Adjust the flexible connector tube of the sand filtration system to discharge outflowing water through the waste line.

Step 4: Open up the waste line valve of the multiport. Ensure that it will drain water more effectually on account of debris build-up reasons.

Step 5:Ensure that no one is in the pool as draining happens for safety purposes. Also, adhere to local or national guidelines concerning hazardous chemical discharge procedures, which should be at around two-thirds drainage limit.

Step 6:After about six hours, any remaining water in your filter tank should have been drained out naturally from the sand bed of the filtration system.

“Draining inground pools can cause problems, including many issues like cracking and damage caused by resin shrinkage.” – The Spruce

The article recommends not emptying a fiberglass or vinyl-lined concrete pool surface completely because this type of pressure can lead to structural weakening or failure may happen due to thermal stress. Partial refilling with added chlorine pumping and sanitizing efforts are preferable during winterization time. However, if you wish to avoid all these risks altogether, consider consulting an expert who undertakes professional assistance in closing up swimming pools for seasonal change (winter).

Balance Chemical Levels

If you’re planning on closing your inground pool for the winter, one of the most important steps is ensuring that the chemical levels in the water are balanced. This will help prevent algae growth and other issues during the off-season.

Testing Chemical Levels

The first step in balancing chemical levels is to test the water using a testing kit or strips. You’ll need to check the levels of chlorine, pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness. Each of these chemicals plays an important role in maintaining the cleanliness and safety of your pool.

If any of these levels are outside of the recommended range, you’ll need to adjust them before closing the pool. Many homeowners choose to hire a professional pool service to handle this process, but it’s also possible to do it yourself with some basic knowledge and equipment.

Adding Chemicals

Once you’ve determined which chemicals need to be adjusted, the next step is adding them to the water. This can be done using commercial pool chemicals, such as chlorine tablets or shock treatment, or with natural alternatives like baking soda or vinegar.

It’s important to follow the instructions carefully when adding chemicals to ensure that they’re added in the correct amounts. Over-chlorination or under-balancing the pH levels can cause damage to your pool liner and equipment, so taking care to get this right is crucial.

Waiting for Chemicals to Dissipate

After adding chemicals, you’ll also need to wait for them to dissipate fully before continuing with the closing process. This typically takes several days, depending on the specific chemicals used and the amount added.

You may also need to run your pool filter during this time to circulate the chemicals through the water and help them dissolve more quickly. Once the chemicals have fully dissipated, you can move on to other steps in the closing process.

Balancing chemical levels is a critical step in closing your inground pool for the winter. By testing and adjusting the levels, you’ll ensure that your pool stays clean and safe during the off-season and is ready to go next summer when the warm weather returns!

Clean the Pool

As we near the end of swimming season, it’s important to properly close your inground pool down for the winter. This not only protects your investment but also makes spring opening easier and more enjoyable.

Removing Debris

The first step in closing an inground pool is removing all debris from the water. Skim the surface with a leaf net or skimmer basket to collect any floating leaves, bugs, or other debris. Be sure to empty the baskets frequently to avoid them overflowing into the pool again.

You should also vacuum the bottom of the pool to remove any dirt or sand. Use a pool vacuum or a robotic cleaner to make this task quick and easy.

Scrubbing the Walls and Floor

To keep your pool looking great, you’ll need to scrub the walls and floor. Gently brush any algae or buildup off the surfaces using a soft-bristled brush or a pool sweep attachment. Be careful not to damage the interior finish of the pool as you do so.

If you come across stubborn stains on the walls or liner, try using a specialized stain remover product that matches your type of pool.

Cleaning the Filter and Pump

A clean filter and pump will help maintain your pool’s overall health through the off-season. Check your manufacturer’s instructions to see how they recommend cleaning the system.

• Sand filters: Backwash the filter until the discharge comes out clear, then add multi-purpose pool cleaner to aid in killing bacteria during storage.
• DE filters: Disassemble the filter completely, clean each part thoroughly, reassemble, and store covered.
• Cartridge filters: Remove the cartridge(s) and hose it down thoroughly with a water and muriatic acid solution. Rinse with fresh water, let dry before putting them back in the filter tank.
• Pump: Shut off the power source to the pump and remove any plugs from drain ports or low points in the system. Open all air-relief valves to allow for draining fluid trapped in the pipes and parts.

Refilling the Pool

After cleaning and emptying the pool, refill it until the water level is at the recommended height per manufacturer’s guidelines. Once filled, add winterizing chemicals to maintain the pool through the winter months properly. Using algaecide and shock will help prevent algae growth, sanitizer levels should be reduced, which can make adding antifreeze easier if you experience low temperatures where your pool has frozen in years past.

“Properly winterizing your pool helps ensure that everything runs as smoothly as possible when you open it back up next swimming season.” -Karen Whitlow, AquaTech Marine Services

Don’t forget other components like ladders, handrails, diving boards, and slides; apply a protective coating of wax (depending on their materials), store hardware separately from the equipment storage, and cover them to prevent accumulation of dirt and debris. Remove any protectants when you reopen the pool.

Closing an inground pool may seem overwhelming initially, but taking your time and following these steps precisely will lead you to lower stress come springtime.

Remove Pool Accessories

Removing Ladders and Diving Boards

If you have a pool ladder or diving board, it’s important to take them down before closing your inground pool for the winter. This will ensure they don’t become damaged during the colder months, which can cause rusting or cracking.

To remove a ladder, first, lift it out of the water and place it on the deck surrounding the pool. Then, unscrew the bolts holding it in place at the top of the pool’s wall. You can use a socket wrench to loosen these bolts, being careful not to lose any small parts as you do so.

When removing a diving board, be sure to have someone help support it while you unbolt it from the deck. Once the bolts are removed, carefully lift the board off the brackets keeping it affixed to the surface, then disassemble all remaining hardware.

Draining and Storing Hoses and Pumps

Plumbing for your above-ground pool includes hoses, pumps, and filters that need to be drained and stored properly. First, turn off power running to the pump and filter system, then disconnect the plumbing fittings and drain them thoroughly to prevent damage due to freezing temperatures.

The next step is to store the hoses somewhere safe where they won’t become damaged. These can be coiled up and placed in an area or bin away from direct sunlight. If possible, hang them up neatly so they don’t end up becoming tangled over time.

Pump systems also need care when storing. Be sure to follow manufacturer guidelines to avoid damage to your equipment. Some pool owners may elect to store the entire system inside during the offseason to prevent extreme temperature fluctuations to delicate electronic components.

Cleaning and Storing Pool Toys

Before packing away your pool toys and floats for the season, give them a thorough cleaning. Use a mild soap and water solution to remove any debris, then let them dry completely before storing. This will prevent the growth of mold or bacteria during storage.

If possible, store your inflatables inflated to avoid creases that can cause damage over time. Floats should also be stored in an area away from direct sunlight to prevent discoloration or fading.

Covering and Storing Patio Furniture

Your patio furniture is just as important as your pool equipment when closing your inground pool. Before storing these items for the winter, it’s essential to give them a good cleaning. Start by removing any excess dirt or debris using a soft brush or rag. Then, wash all surfaces with a gentle soap and water solution, paying close attention to areas where grime may have accumulated.

Once your furniture has been cleaned, allow it to fully dry. Next, cover each piece carefully with a protective cover designed for outdoor furniture. Be sure to choose covers that are large enough to fully encase each item but not too big causing sagging fabric which can invite moisture and lead to mildew build-up.

“If you don’t take care of things around the house, sooner or later, they’ll take care of you.” -Jerry Baker

Closing your inground pool for the winter is an essential part of seasonal maintenance. By taking the time to properly clean and store your pool accessories like ladders, pumps, filters, hoses, toys, and even patio furniture, you’re ensuring everything stays in top shape for continued use in the future. Not only will this make the opening process easier, but it will extend the life of your pool, saving you money on costly repairs down the line.

Winterize the Pool

If you live in a region where the winter temperatures can drop below freezing, it is essential to close your inground pool correctly. Winterizing involves taking several steps to prevent damage to the pool structure and plumbing during the frozen months.

Lowering the Water Level

The first step in closing an inground pool for winter is to lower the water level by about 4 – 6 inches below the skimmer opening. This process prevents ice build-up that can cause damage if there are any cracks or weak spots on the pool walls or floor. To do this, connect a submersible pump to the hose and remove enough water from the pool. Afterward, turn off the pump and disconnect the hose.

Blowing out the Lines

When water freezes inside the pipes, it expands, causing them to crack and burst. That’s why blowing out the lines is crucial when closing an inground pool for winter. It removes all the water from the pipes and equipment, preventing ice formation and cracking. Firstly, ensure that the filter system is turned off before removing the drain plugs. Connect a shop vac powered by an air compressor to the skimmer line, pushing the air through the return valve to eliminate any leftover water. Repeat the same with the main drain and each return line until no more water comes out of the unit.

Adding Winter Chemicals

To keep your inground pool well-maintained even during the cold season, add some winter chemicals. These work to eradicate bacteria growth, algae blossoms, and other organic material caused by leaves or debris buildup. If not taken care of, they lead to scaling and stained plaster surfaces. The best way to treat your pool using these chemicals is by first balancing the pH levels, including the alkanity and water hardness. The ideal total alkalinity level is in the range of 80 -120 parts per million (ppm). You can also use an enzyme product to eliminate non-living organic materials before adding the winter chemicals.

Closing a pool requires diligent preparation to protect the structure from damages during freezing temperatures.” -David Beaulieu, The Spruce

“Winterizing is one crucial step that often gets skipped by many swimming pool owners, leading to costly repairs come springtime” -John Kohler, Swim University.

Closing an inground pool correctly at the end of summer helps make under-winter maintenance easy and less tedious. From lowering the water levels, preventing frozen pipes to regulating winter chemicals, these tips guarantee the safety and longevity of your pool despite the cold months ahead.

Cover the Pool

When it comes to closing an inground pool, covering it is an essential step. Properly covering your pool for the winter season can help prevent debris buildup, reduce algae growth, and ensure that your pool is ready for use next season.

Preparing the Cover

The first step in this process involves preparing the cover. To begin with, clean the pool of any debris, leaves, twigs, or dirt. Once done, make sure to lower the water level below the skimmer’s mouth by using a submersible pump. Doing this prevents ice from forming inside the skimmer and causing damage. Additionally, add a winterizing chemical kit as per manufacturer instructions to keep the water safe and healthy during offseason.

To avoid future damages, remove all accessories like ladders, diving boards, handrails, and poolside furniture before covering. These items must be stored indoors and carefully are not exposed to moisture or cold temperatures.

Placing the Cover on the Pool

Now that you have prepared the cover get ready to put it in the place where it belongs. Firstly, center the cover on the pool by holding it properly near all sides. Make sure to align it with the pool edge neatly. Secure the edges by fastening the cording through holes located around the cover’s perimeter; The cording will hold the cover securely in place, preventing windblown debris from slipping underneath it, giving you the requisite amount of safety.

Alternatively, some covers come with a technique wherein you inflate each chamber (located air pillow type) placed in various areas beneath the cover. As you do so, the cover rises up, making the water buoyant which reduces the chances of freezing and expansion. Increase your inflated balloons based on the pool size so that it covers the entire surface area.

Placing the cover on the pool is an essential step in ensuring your inground pool stays protected. By following these simple yet effective methods, you can ensure that the pool is well-maintained during the offseason and ready for use as soon as summer arrives again.

Frequently Asked Questions