Pool closing goes more smoothly when the supplies and decisions are ready before freezing weather arrives. Use these ten checks to organize the job, then follow your pool, equipment, chemical, and cover manufacturers’ instructions for the actual shutdown.
1. Choose your closing date
Watch the forecast and book professional help early. Allow time for cleaning, water adjustments, treatment, and any required circulation before freezing temperatures arrive. Do not leave unfamiliar plumbing work until the last evening.
2. Check your supplies
Lay out the cover hardware, winter plugs, labeled storage containers, and manuals. Review our Pool Winterizing collection for supplies that match your system. Replace damaged parts before starting.
3. Remove leaves and debris
Skim, brush, and vacuum the pool. Empty baskets and remove loose accessories. Start with clean water so the closing treatment is not competing with a layer of leaves and dirt.
4. Test and record water balance
Use suitable pool testing supplies to check sanitizer, pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness. Adjust to the ranges recommended for your pool and retest. Save the results with your closing notes.
5. Confirm the shock treatment
Choose a treatment compatible with your pool. DryTec cal-hypo shock is an option where calcium hypochlorite is appropriate. Follow the label dose, application method, protective-equipment requirements, and circulation instructions.
6. Plan winter chemicals separately
Check the order, timing, and compatibility of any winter algaecide or other closing aid. Never mix chemicals together. Allow the required interval after shocking before applying subsequent products or covering the pool.
7. Confirm the winter water level
Use the level specified for your pool, cover, and skimmer-protection method. Do not copy a universal measurement from another pool. Avoid completely draining the pool or letting a pump run dry.
8. Protect equipment and every line
Follow shutdown and draining procedures for the pump, filter, heater, and accessories. Have a qualified professional clear and seal unfamiliar plumbing. Store drain plugs and fittings together so spring reassembly is straightforward.
9. Check antifreeze compatibility
Use SPLASH Pool & Spa Antifreeze only where the product label and your equipment instructions permit it. Confirm formulation, placement, and amount. Do not substitute automotive coolant or dilute a ready-to-use winterizing product.
10. Secure the cover and schedule checks
Inspect and fasten the cover as instructed, maintain the required supporting water level, and arrange rainwater removal where needed. Keep barriers locked. Add recurring reminders to inspect the cover, water level, and equipment area throughout winter.
Before you walk away: photograph the finished setup, file your water readings, label stored parts, and note anything your pool professional wants checked later. A clear record makes reopening simpler.
