How to Close an Above Ground Pool
It’s that time of year when pool owners in New Jersey need to start closing their pools for the season. Winterizing your pool is important to protect your above ground pool from harm when the weather is frigid. Doing so will not only prevent damage, but it will also make opening your pool for spring much smoother. Our team at Central Jersey Pools is happy to help you with the process. Start by following this guide on how to close an above ground pool.
When to Close Your Above Ground Pool
Once the average outside temperature reaches below 65 degrees, you should close your above ground pool. While Freehold and the surrounding areas could have a sporadic warmer day in late fall, we could also have a very cold day. Don’t risk harm to your above ground pool by waiting too long. At Central Jersey Pools, we typically say that pool owners should start planning and scheduling their pool closing soon after Labor Day.
What You Need to Close Your Pool
Before closing your above ground pool, gather the necessary supplies. You can stop by our store in Freehold where we have all of these items in stock. Needed pool closing supplies include a winterizing chemical kit, skimmer covers, return line plugs, a winter cover with winch, cable, and clips, and a pool pillow.
End-of-Season Cleaning
Give your above ground pool one last end-of-season deep cleaning. Scrub the walls, skim any debris, and vacuum the interior if you can. Removing any biofilm, algae or mold now will prevent your winter chemicals from being used up too quickly and make spring opening much more pleasant.
Add Pool Closing Chemicals
First, test your water and balance so the pH is between 7.4 and 7.6, and the alkalinity is between 100 and 150ppm. Then, add the wintering chemicals as directed. These winter chemicals are going to ensure your pool stays clean and clear until next spring.
Care for Your Pipes, Valves, and Cleaning System
To prevent freezing water from damaging the pipes on your above ground pool, disconnect them, plug the openings on the pool, and safely store them inside for winter. Then, either lower the water to below the skimmers or place skimmer covers to prevent water from entering.
How to winterize your above ground pool’s filtration system depends on the type you have. For Sand and Salt Filters, switch to the winter setting, remove plug and end caps, and store components indoors. For Diatomaceous Earth (DE) and Cartridge Filters, drain, rinse with a hose, and leave valves open. Be sure to read your owner’s manual or contact our team for greater details on this process.
Remove and Store Pool Accessories
Be sure to clean all pool accessories and store in a warm, dry place for winter. This includes pool toys, ladder, steps, and more. Leaving pool accessories in your above ground pool for the winter could cause significant damage to both the accessory and your pool.
Cover Your Above Ground Pool
Finally, fill the air pillow and place it in the center of your above ground pool. Put your pool cover in place and secure it with the cables, wench, and clips. Make sure it is properly secured and ready for winter.
While closing your pool is necessary, it is not complex and we are here to help! If you have further questions about how to close your above ground pool for winter, contact our team at Central Jersey Pools.