Are Winter Pool Closings Really Necessary?
We’re often asked if it’s necessary to winterize – also known as closing – a pool for winter. While many hope to skip the time, effort or cost of closing a pool, it is absolutely necessary that Chicago pool owners close their pool for the winter.
Why you have to winterize your pool
Winterizing your pool will protect your investment from being damaged during Chicago’s cold, long and often brutal winter.
When the temperature drops below freezing and there is water in your pool, you run a high risk of damaging the structure of your pool. In addition to structural damage, you’re also in danger of breeding algae in your pool; even if the freezing water doesn’t damage your pool, you’ll have to completely clean your pool prior to opening in the spring again.
What do I need to do to close my pool?
For most inground pools, the general pool winterization process is as follows:
- Blow out the water from your pool lines and equipment; add antifreeze
- Drain the water level 18 - 24 inches to help support the winter cover and protect tile line and skimmers. Never drain your pool entirely.
- Add winterizing chemicals to protect the pool from algae and staining and help make pool opening easier
- Clean out your pool
- Install a winter cover to protect the pool from debris, while also protecting family and pets from falling in
However, the exact process for closing a pool will vary by the type of pool. Incorrectly closing your pool can actually cause your inground pool to pop out of the ground! It’s incredibly important to do your research before it is time to close your pool. It’s recommended to hire professionals to help close your pool, as they will know the proper way to prepare it for winter without causing any damage.
When do I need to close my pool by?
Chicago’s unpredictable weather can make it tricky to figure out when to close your pool. While an unexpected heat wave or cold spell may have you wanting to change the closing date of your pool, many people winterize their pool by the end of September or beginning of October. If you still aren’t sure when to close your pool, a professional pool service can help you determine the best time to start the pool closing process.
If you’d like to protect your pool before Chicago’s winter season comes beating down on us, and you live in the North Shore or western suburbs of the Chicagoland area, we can help. Give us a call at 847-499-6040 or fill out a quote request form; we will be happy to give you a free quote or more information about our pool winterization process.
