The methods used to close your pool in the fall will play a determining role in the condition of your water come springtime. The later you close your pool, the better your chances of finding easily treatable water conditions upon reopening, especially if you open your pool early.

Preserving water conditions is not the only reason for closing your pool properly, the process also allows you to ensure that the pool equipment makes it through the winter unscathed.

End of the Swimming Season:
When the swimming season comes to a close, disconnect the water heater (close the circuit breaker as well) but leave the pump on and continue with the regular maintenance of your pool, including adjustments to the chemical balance, until the definitive closing day. While waiting for this day to arrive, and just before the leaves begin to fall, vacuum the pool thoroughly and install a net. To prevent the net from coming into contact with the water, place an “air cushion” (specifically designed for this purpose) in the centre of the pool.

D-Day:
The time to close the pool for good will have arrived when the water temperature dips close to 10ºC (50ºF); this typically happens around mid-October or in early November. If you close your pool before the water reaches this temperature, you increase the risk of losing your water conditions. If, on the other hand, you wait too long, you increase the risk of ice forming on the water surface, in the plumbing or in the equipment, which can cause damages and make the closing process more difficult.

Before undertaking the closing process per se, remove the net and air cushion that you installed before the leaves began to fall.

Then, visually inspect the pool in order to monitor potential leaks, tears and/or structural defects. The weight of ice and snow accumulations can generate significant stress on the pool. For this reason, it is important that all equipment be in good condition in order to prevent additional damage or even sagging. If parts are broken or appear worn, replace them immediately to avoid problems in the future. As an added bonus, you’ll be thankful when your pool is in prime condition come the spring.

This checklist is based on the premise that the pool was properly maintained leading up to D-Day and that the water is still perfectly clear. If this is not the case, follow the instructions in the Pool Maintenance Guide to re-establish water quality prior to closing. Failure to do this will generate additional difficulties during the opening process in the spring.