Closing the Swimming Pool: For Many, Time To Face Summer’s End

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Closing the Swimming Pool: For Many, Time To Face Summer’s End

Thursday, September 20th, 2007 Subscribe To Our Feed

Leaves in the swimming pool mean pool closing time is near

(sigh) If you have an outdoor pool, you KNEW this day had to come….

For those living in more southern climates there will be a few more idyllic days before the inevitable; and for others with enclosed pools, summer never really ends. An unusually warm and dry winter has been predicted for my region; but with the kids in school and the usual press of fall activities before the year-end holidays (geez, where did the time go?) the pool really isn’t used much, even with a gas heater. The air hints of fall, and that means it’s time to deflate and pack the toys and prepare to winterize the pool.

Where I live, the weather is warm enough that I don’t have to completely close my pool. I simply check the chemical balance, keep it skimmed, especially with the leaves falling, and run the pump on occasion. We have no hard freezes that would endanger water-filled underground pipes. Less pool use generally means less chemical needs. I’ll have the local pool service do a general check of my systems this year to see if I missed anything; and get an estimate on a much desired pool cover. For those who live in colder climates and perhaps have an attached spa, fountain or waterfall, your closing will be more complex. I found a good article in the NY Times that discusses closing pools for winter. Though it’s aimed at folks who have pools at their second or vacation homes, the advice is useful for anyone who owns a pool. A properly closed and winterized swimming pool can ensure a stress-free spring opening.

If you’re new to pool ownership, there’s no shame in calling a pro to close your pool. Take it from me, who got somewhat skimpy maintenance tips from the previous owners: I’d rather pay a hundred to save spending many times that later, which is why I’m calling my local pro. But I also take notes, ask questions and closely observe the pro while they’re here, because I want to learn how to do the job myself. Of course, if the pool is at your distant vacation home, you may want to hire someone to care for the pool while you’re away. Choice is always yours.