As pool season comes to an end, properly closing your pool is more than just a routine task—it’s an essential part of responsible pool ownership. In Ottawa, where freezing temperatures are inevitable, failing to winterize your pool can lead to costly damages such as cracked pipes, broken tiles, and damaged equipment. By draining the water, protecting the plumbing, and cleaning the pool, you can safeguard your investment and ensure that your pool is in top shape and ready for use next season.
Why Pool Closing is Essential
As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, pool owners face the important task of closing their pools for the season. While it may be tempting to skip this step or put it off, proper pool closing is an essential part of maintaining your pool’s health and longevity. After all, avoiding this task could lead to pump or filter damage, not to mention signs of corrosion and unnecessary wear in other types of pool equipment.
Even in the fall, when temperatures are still above freezing, your pool is exposed to various elements, such as falling leaves and other debris. When these accumulate in your pool, they can settle in the water, break down, and release nutrients that promote algae growth, even in cooler temperatures. Algae can form quickly, turning your clear pool water green and making it more challenging to clean come spring.
You got plenty of use out of your backyard oasis this year, and taking the time to close your pool promptly and properly before the cold weather hits means preserving its beauty and your family’s enjoyment for years to come.
Steps to Properly Close a Pool
Step 1: Clean
To clean out your pool, start by vacuuming the bottom to remove debris and scrubbing the walls to break loose calcium buildup or algae accumulation, ensuring that the pool surface is thoroughly clean before closing. Check the siding or the tiles to see if they are in good condition or need some repairs or replacement, as addressing any issues now can prevent further damage during the winter months and save you from costly fixes in the future.
Step 2: Drain Pool Water to Slightly Below the Return Lines
In Ottawa, draining your pool is essential to avoid water freezing the pipes and the thawing and melting process that could damage other equipment. When water freezes, it expands, and that can crack and damage various components quickly and easily. Using a compressor or shop vac can help to fully remove water from the plumbing to ensure that it’s dry.
Step 3: Protect Pool Equipment
Store your equipment in a temperature-controlled place where it won’t be damaged by freezing temperatures, such as a secure shed, garage or storage room in your house. Proper storage keeps pool equipment safe and dry throughout the colder months and into the thaw of spring, meaning everything will be ready to use and fully functional come next summer.
Preparing Your Pool for the Winter
Properly closing your pool is not just about putting a cover on it—it’s about ensuring the longevity and safety of your pool for years to come. By following the steps to clean, drain, and protect your pool and its equipment, you’re safeguarding your investment from the harsh effects of Ottawa’s freezing winters. Taking the time now to winterize your pool means you’ll avoid costly repairs and can enjoy a smooth, hassle-free opening next season.
At Benson Pools, we can help you make sure that your pool is protected before winter. Contact us today to learn more about our pool closing services!
