5 Steps To Close and Winterize Your In-ground Pool

5 Steps To Close and Winterize Your In-ground Pool

During these bright, warm days of an Oregon summer, the laughter and splashes from our backyard pools are cherished reminders of why we invested in pools as a source of joy and relaxation. Whether it’s poolside barbecues, children’s parties, or tranquil sunset swims, our pools are the centers of our summer enjoyment.

But even as we continue to savor these delightful summer moments, it’s important to look ahead. Yes, the sun is still shining, and the pool is inviting, but it’s also the perfect time to start considering when to close and winterize your in-ground pool.

It might seem early, but savvy pool owners understand that this proactive approach is the best way to protect their investment. It ensures a seamless, trouble-free reopening in spring and guarantees that the pool will be ready and waiting for another season of fun when the next summer arrives. So, while we enjoy the current summer vibes, we’re also preparing to keep our pools in top shape all year round.

At Emerald Pool & Patio, we understand that pool ownership is a year-round commitment, extending well beyond the balmy summer days. It’s a cycle of seasons, each requiring its unique care and attention. That’s why we’re not only here to help you maximize your summer fun, but we’re also committed to guiding you through the necessary preparations as we transition from summer to fall and eventually to winter.

In this blog post, we’ll delve into the essential process of closing and winterizing your pool. Our goal is to simplify this task and provide you with the necessary tools and knowledge to protect your investment through the cooler months. With our expert assistance, you can confidently navigate these transitions and ensure your pool is ready and waiting when the warmer weather rolls around again. Let our team at Emerald Pool & Patio help you stay one step ahead in your pool-owning journey.

Step 1: Balance Your Pool Chemistry

Maintaining balanced pool chemistry is an essential part of the pool closure process. It’s more than a simple task on your to-do list; it’s key to preserving the health and longevity of your pool. The appropriate balance of pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness keeps your pool water crystal clear, and free from harmful microorganisms, and prevents your pool’s surfaces and equipment from corroding or developing calcium deposits.

But what happens if the pool chemistry is neglected, and the chemistry is off balance? In a word: trouble. And if you close your pool like that? Double trouble. Neglecting your pool’s chemistry, especially before closing it for winter, can lead to major problems. For instance, high pH levels can cause scaling—unwanted calcium deposits on your pool walls and equipment. Alternatively, low pH levels can corrode your pool equipment and etch your pool surfaces, leading to potential long-term damage and expensive repairs.

At Emerald Pool & Patio, we appreciate the importance of balanced pool chemistry for the well-being of your pool and your peace of mind. That’s why we provide a comprehensive range of pool chemicals and water testing services. From pH adjusters and alkalinity increasers to calcium hardness boosters, we have everything you need to maintain optimal pool chemistry.

Curious to learn more about maintaining your pool’s chemical balance? You can find more information on our website: https://emeraldpool.com/swimming-pool-maintenance/ 

If you’re feeling unsure about achieving that perfect balance for your pool, rest easy! Our skilled team is ready to help. For personalized advice or support in adjusting your pool’s chemical balance, don’t hesitate to visit us at one of our stores, or call us during work hours. We even offer water testing services – simply bring a sample, and we’ll handle the rest!

Remember, a successful pool closure and stress-free spring reopening begins with balanced pool water. At Emerald Pool & Patio, we’re here to ensure you attain that balance and keep your pool in prime condition all year round.

Step 2: Clean Your Pool Thoroughly

A clean pool is more than just a happy pool; it’s a healthy one, too. As you prepare to close your pool for the winter months, giving it a thorough cleaning is an essential step, and neglecting it can lead to a series of complications. Without proper cleaning, leaves, dirt, and debris can accumulate and clog your filters, leading to inefficient circulation and potential damage to your equipment. Algae growth might also develop, adhering to your pool walls and creating a slippery, unsightly mess. These problems not only affect the appearance of your pool but can also cause further issues down the road.

A spotless pool is more likely to withstand the challenges of the off-season, as minimized organic matter reduces the risk of algae blooms and water imbalance.To achieve this, and leave your pool in top-notch condition before closing for the winter, here are some recommendations:

1. Skimming and Vacuuming: Clean the surface to remove floating debris, and vacuum the bottom to eliminate dirt and settled particles. This ensures that no unwanted material is floating around in the pool.
2. Wall and Tile Scrubbing: Algae and grime often cling to the pool walls and tiles. Scrub them clean to prevent long-term staining and to keep your pool looking its best.
3. Filter Cleaning: The filter is the heart of your pool’s circulation system, and any clogs can affect its performance. Regular cleaning and professional inspections ensure they function at their best. Not only should you clean the filters, but you can get a professional to inspect the filters to ensure they function optimally. 

We understand that preparing your pool for winterization is a substantial task. At Emerald Pool & Patio, our team can take this responsibility off your shoulders. Not only do we offer expert pool and filter cleaning, but we also specialize in closing/winterization services. With our expertise, you’ll not only save time but also ensure that your pool remains in immaculate condition. Our years of experience guarantee a pool ready for a spash as soon as summer returns.

Thinking of professional pool cleaning? Visit Emerald Pool & Patio in Eugene or Bend, or head to our website to get started. We promise an unmatched service that your pool deserves.

But that’s not all. As the winter season approaches and you plan for next summer, remember that a perfect pool requires the right care products. At Emerald Pool & Patio, we provide a wide array of cleaning products to support your efforts. Visit our stores in Eugene or Bend, or explore our website to discover our selection of pool cleaning products. We’re here to help ensure your pool stays in top shape, ready for another season of fun. Start your winter preparation today!

Step 3: Lower the Water Level

Lowering the water level in your pool is vital to prevent damage caused by freezing water. Why? When water freezes, it expands, and this expansion can exert a tremendous amount of pressure on the sides and bottom of your pool, causing potential cracks or even structural failure. Even more, water freezing inside your pool’s plumbing can cause pipes to burst, leading to expensive repairs.

Lowering the water level reduces the amount of water that can freeze within the pool and its plumbing, alleviating these potential issues. However, the ideal water level is a fine balance – it must be low enough to prevent damage but high enough to provide support to the pool cover and to prevent it from sagging under the weight of snow or rain.

This delicate balance depends on your pool type and the specific winter cover you use. In-ground pools and above-ground pools have different needs, and mesh covers can handle more water weight than solid ones.

If you want to know more about the specific needs of your pool’s water level for your winterization prep, contact our team at Emerald Pool & Patio! We are pros when it comes to the science behind freezing water and the potential harm it can cause to your pool and its systems. We can provide tailored advice based on your pool’s unique needs, ensuring it weathers the winter safely and is ready for your enjoyment when summer comes around again. Contact us today!

Step 4: Winterize Your In-Ground Pool Equipment

Protecting your pool’s equipment from freezing temperatures is another key step in winterization. Each component of your pool’s system plays an important role in maintaining a clean and healthy pool environment, and damage from freezing can lead to costly repairs or replacements.

Think of your pool pump as the heart of your pool system. It circulates the water, keeping everything moving and fresh. But if we leave water in the pump when the temperatures dip below freezing, it could expand and damage the pump’s housing.

Now, let’s consider the filter. It’s kind of like the pool’s immune system, trapping dirt, debris, and tiny critters we don’t want swimming around with us. But just like the pump, if the water’s left in the filter when it freezes, it could cause cracks in the filter housing.

Don’t forget about pool heaters! They keep us comfortable for those dusk swims and early morning laps. If they get filled with freezing water, it could mess up the internal components.

And lastly, those extra pool accessories like automatic cleaners, chlorinators, and salt systems? They also need to be properly drained as they aren’t made to handle freezing conditions.

In addition to draining these systems, it’s important to add pool antifreeze to the lines and plug them in to prevent water from entering. The antifreeze provides an extra level of protection by lowering the freezing point of any residual water in your system.

If this process sounds intimidating, don’t worry. At Emerald Pool & Patio, our skilled technicians offer comprehensive equipment winterizing services to protect your pool’s systems adequately. We understand the intricacies of each component and how to protect them from the rigors of an Oregon winter.

Step 5: Cover Your Pool

The final step of the process will be to cover your pool. Not only do winter covers keep out and minimize evaporation, but they help maintain your water chemistry balance throughout the colder months. Our inventory boasts a range of high-quality winter covers for your pool–  Stop by our store to get expert advice for your pool! Alongside out standard winter covers, we also proudly offer the Aquamatic automated safety cover – More than a winter cover, the Aquamatic cover enhances safety and convenience with its automatic features. Want to learn more about how an Aquamatic pool cover can enhance your pool experience? Reach out to us today!

Final Takeaways:

Remember, when you close and winterize your in-ground pool, it isn’t just about placing a cover on it. It’s about taking the right steps, at the right time, to protect your investment from the elements and ensure a smooth transition when the warmer weather returns.

Whether you’re a new pool owner or an experienced one, planning for pool closure and winterization can feel overwhelming. But with Emerald Pool & Patio by your side, it doesn’t have to be. We have been serving the Oregon community since 1955, and our commitment to quality service and customer satisfaction remains unwavering.

Let us simplify your pool winterization process. Visit our stores in Eugene or Bend, or head to our website to schedule a service. Let us shoulder your pool winterization worries because we believe your pool should be a source of joy, not stress. Winter is coming, but with Emerald Pool & Patio, your pool is in good hands; You can relax and enjoy the rest of your summer, confident that your pool will be ready for you and your family to dive back into the fun come next spring.