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How to Close an Inground Pool

Sadly, it's that time of year -- time to close and winterize the pool and wait for warm weather to reappear in the spring. Closing your pool doesn't take that much time, but it must be done correctly in order to prevent freezing temperatures from ravaging your pool structure.

1. Start by removing your diving board, ladders, rails, safety ropes, and any other equipment you might have in and around the pool (not your filtering equipment).

2. Remove the eye ball fittings from all your return lines and the skimmer baskets from your skimmers.

3. Test your pool water to make sure it is properly balanced. Take a sample of water to your local professional pool service to have it thoroughly checked. You can also use home test strips to make sure the pH is between 7.4 and 7.6, your alkalinity is between 100ppm and 150ppm, and your sanitizer is at the correct level. Your chemical ranges can be on the high side when closing your pool because chances are they will drop during the winter.

4. Add the winter chemicals, but only after you make sure your pool is as clean as possible. Chemical kits may or may not require you to run your pump and filter while adding the chemicals.

5. Backwash and clean the filter and pump.

6. Blow out the lines. If you are unsure how to do this properly, hire a reputable company to come and blow your lines out for you. If you do not do this step correctly, you run the risk of your pipes cracking underground.

7. Put the winter cover on. Place the cover over your pool. If you use a safety cover, consult your manual. If you are using a simple plastic cover, just make sure there are no rips or tears.

At Barry Barkovits Custom Pools, our people make the difference. Our team is comprised of eighteen experienced employees - four are PA State certified pool operators and our retail store is a licensed PA state certified chemical applicator. Our in-house team will work tirelessly to provide you with top-of-the-line service, before, during and after the sale of your new outdoor living space. We are proud of the numerous prestigious awards we have received from the Northeast Spa & Pool Association (NESPA), the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP), Penn Jersey Pool & Spa Association, and the Lehigh Valley Builders Association. For more information, call us at 610) 691-7665.