As summer winds down, many pool owners start thinking about the inevitable: closing the pool for the season. While pool closing might not be on the top of your to-do list just yet, a little planning now can make the entire process smoother, faster, and less stressful when the time comes.
At Patriot Pools, we specialize in helping homeowners and property managers maintain crystal-clear pools all season—and make off-season care simple. If you’re planning to close your pool soon, here are a few smart steps to take now.
1. Start Balancing Your Water Early
About two weeks before closing your pool, begin testing and adjusting your water chemistry. This gives your sanitizer, pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness time to stabilize before adding closing chemicals.
A properly balanced pool helps prevent algae growth, surface staining, and equipment corrosion while it’s closed. Need help? Our technicians can test and balance the water to ensure it’s just right before you shut things down.
2. Clear Out the Clutter
Leaves, bugs, toys, and debris may seem harmless, but letting them sit in your pool before closing can lead to stains and algae blooms during the off-season.
Before you close, take time to:
- Skim the water thoroughly
- Vacuum the pool floor and walls
- Clean out your skimmer and pump baskets
Doing this in stages helps prevent a last-minute scramble when temperatures start to drop.
3. Schedule Any Needed Repairs Now
Have you noticed small cracks, leaks, or unusual pump noises? Don’t wait until next season. Minor problems often get worse over the winter, especially when left untreated.
By tackling repairs before closing, you’ll avoid costlier damage and ensure a quicker, smoother reopening next spring.
4. Stock Up on Closing Supplies
Once the pool stores start selling out of winterizing supplies, it can be tough to find the right products. Avoid the rush by gathering your pool cover, plugs, chemicals, and tools now.
Not sure what you need? Patriot Pools can help you prep your closing kit and handle the winterization process for you.
5. Keep an Eye on the Forecast
While there’s no “perfect” date to close your pool, waiting too long—especially after a cold snap—can cause issues. If nighttime temperatures are consistently dipping below 60°F and you’re no longer using the pool, it’s time to get on the schedule.
We recommend booking your professional closing service in advance, as appointments fill up quickly once fall begins.
6. Consider a Pool Closing Service
Closing a pool the right way requires more than tossing on a cover. At Patriot Pools, we handle:
- Full water testing and balancing
- Equipment inspection
- Blow-out of lines to prevent freezing
- Installation of plugs and covers
- Adding winterizing chemicals
- Expert advice for long-term maintenance
It’s the best way to protect your investment and reduce headaches in the spring.
Let Patriot Pools Make Closing Easy
Pool closing doesn’t have to be a chore. With a bit of early prep—and help from our experienced team—you’ll head into fall knowing your pool is safe, clean, and ready for its off-season nap.
Contact Patriot Pools today to schedule your pool closing or request a pre-closing inspection. We’re here to make your end-of-season care simple and stress-free.