As pool season winds down and temperatures begin to drop, it’s time to shift your focus from summer fun to fall prep. Closing your pool properly is essential to protecting your investment and ensuring it’s ready to go when warm weather returns. While most homeowners remember to skim, balance the chemicals, and cover the pool, there are a few often-overlooked maintenance tasks that could make a big difference come spring.
Here are the top three end-of-season pool maintenance tasks that homeowners tend to forget—but shouldn’t.
1. Cleaning and Storing Pool Accessories and Equipment
It’s easy to leave pool floats, skimmer baskets, and other accessories sitting out until the last second—but storing these items properly can extend their lifespan and save you money in the long run.
- Pool toys and floats: Rinse off chlorine, let them fully dry, and store them in a dry, indoor area to prevent mold and cracking.
- Ladders and handrails: Metal components should be removed and stored to avoid corrosion. Be sure to inspect all bolts and connections before next season.
- Cleaning tools: Hoses, brushes, and nets should be rinsed and stored out of direct sunlight.
Leaving accessories out in the elements can lead to premature wear and tear—especially during cold, wet months.
2. Lowering the Water Level to the Proper Height
Many homeowners assume they can simply cover the pool as-is. But if your pool has a vinyl liner or is equipped with tile or skimmers, not adjusting the water level could result in costly damage. When water freezes and expands, it can damage tile, crack plaster, or even burst plumbing lines.
- For pools with skimmers: Lower the water to just below the skimmer mouth.
- For pools with tile: Keep the water just below the tile line to avoid freezing damage.
It’s also important to blow out your lines or use skimmer plugs and return line plugs to protect the plumbing system during freezing temperatures.
3. Checking and Cleaning the Pool Filter System
Your filter has worked hard all season long. Dirt, leaves, hair, and oils have likely built up in the system—and if not cleaned now, that debris can harden and be tougher to remove in spring.
- Cartridge filters: Remove and hose down thoroughly. Consider using a filter cleaner if buildup is heavy.
- Sand filters: Backwash the filter, then rinse to remove fine debris.
- DE filters: Backwash and recharge with fresh DE powder as needed before storing for winter.
Don’t forget to drain your pump, filter, heater, and chlorinator so water doesn’t freeze inside and cause cracks or bursts.
Bonus Tip: Schedule a Professional Inspection
Even if you’re confident doing your own pool maintenance, an end-of-season inspection from a professional pool technician can give you peace of mind. They’ll check for early signs of wear, detect small leaks, and ensure all components are winterized correctly—potentially saving you hundreds on unexpected spring repairs.
Make Pool Closing Easy with Patriot Pools
At Patriot Pools, we help homeowners across the region take the stress out of end-of-season pool care. Whether you need help winterizing equipment, checking for damage, or simply want a worry-free closing service, our experienced team is here to help.
Schedule your fall pool service today and start the off-season knowing your backyard oasis is in good hands.