Pool Closing | Quick Tips & Tricks

As summer winds down in the Greater Toronto Area, it’s time to start thinking about closing your pool for the season. Proper winterization protects your investment, prevents costly damage, and ensures your pool is ready when warm weather returns. If you’re planning to close your pool on your own, here are some essential tips and tricks to make the process smoother.

1. Start by Timing It Right

In Southern Ontario, the best time to close your pool is usually late September to early October, once the temperature consistently dips below 15°C. Closing too early can encourage algae growth, while waiting too long risks freeze damage.

2. Give Your Pool a Final Deep Clean

Before shutting things down, vacuum your pool, brush the walls, and skim any debris. The cleaner your pool is when you close it, the easier your spring opening will be.

3. Balance Your Water Chemistry

A properly balanced pool is crucial to preventing corrosion and scale buildup over the winter. Aim for:

pH 7.2–7.6, Alkalinity 80–120 ppm, Calcium Hardness 200–400 ppm. Add a winterizing algaecide and shock your pool 24–48 hours before lowering the water.

4. Lower the Water Level

For vinyl pools, drain the water 4–6 inches below the skimmer. For concrete or fiberglass pools, you can lower it a little further. Never completely drain your pool, as it can cause serious structural issues.

5. Protect Your Equipment

Drain all water from your pump, filter, and heater to prevent freeze damage. Blow out the lines with a shop vac or air compressor, then plug them to keep water out. Remove ladders, return fittings, and skimmer baskets and store them in a dry place.

6. Cover It Up

A high-quality pool cover is worth the investment. Choose a tight-fitting safety or winter cover to keep out leaves, debris, and critters. Secure it properly so it doesn’t sag or shift in heavy winds.

7. Keep an Eye Over Winter

Even after closing, check your pool cover periodically throughout the winter. Remove heavy snow buildup and adjust any slack in the cover straps to prevent tears.

Closing your own pool can save money, but it requires care and attention to detail. Skipping steps can lead to costly springtime repairs.

If you’d rather skip the hassle and guarantee peace of mind, Team Pool Doctors offers professional pool closing services across the GTA.