How to Use Doheny’s Winter Closing Kits to Close Your Pool

Closing your pool for winter doesn’t have to be complicated. Doheny’s Winter Closing Kits are designed to provide the essential chemicals needed to protect your pool water during the off-season and help make spring opening easier.

By following the recommended closing process and properly using the chemicals included in your winter kit, you can help prevent algae growth, staining, and other issues while your pool is covered for the season.

Before Using Your Winter Closing Kit

Taking a few minutes to prepare your pool will help the winter chemicals work more effectively throughout the off-season.

• Remove leaves and debris from the pool using a skimmer
• Brush pool walls and vacuum the floor
• Test and balance water chemistry
• Stop chlorination approximately 24 hours before closing

Balanced water and a clean pool provide the best starting point for winter protection. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Step 1: Add Winterizing Algaecide

Begin by adding the bottle of winterizing algaecide included in your Doheny’s closing kit. Pour the product slowly around the perimeter of the pool to allow it to distribute evenly.

This product helps prevent algae growth during the months when the pool is not circulating regularly.

Step 2: Add Metal Control Treatment

Next, add the metal control treatment included in your winter kit. This chemical helps prevent staining and scaling caused by metals that may be present in pool water.

Distribute the entire bottle evenly around the pool.

Step 3: Add Oxidizing Shock

After adding the liquid chemicals, wait about 15 minutes and then broadcast the shock treatment around the perimeter of the pool.

Shock helps eliminate contaminants and organic material that could otherwise cause cloudy water or algae growth during the winter months. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Allow the pump to circulate for approximately one hour if possible so the chemicals can disperse throughout the pool water. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Step 4: Prepare Your Pool Equipment

Once the chemicals have circulated, prepare your pool equipment for winter conditions.

• Lower the water level according to your pool type
• Drain pumps, filters, heaters, and exposed plumbing lines
• Add pool antifreeze to plumbing lines if recommended

Properly draining equipment helps prevent freeze damage during colder temperatures.

Step 5: Install the Floating Dispenser

Many Doheny’s closing kits include a floating winter dispenser. Before placing it in the pool:

• Punch holes in the designated dimple locations
• Attach the foam collar
• Place the dispenser gently in the pool with the smaller end facing down

The floating dispenser slowly releases winterizing chemicals throughout the off-season to help maintain water clarity. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Step 6: Cover the Pool

A properly installed winter cover protects the pool from debris, sunlight, and harsh winter conditions.

When installing your cover:

• Ensure the cover fits securely over the entire pool
• Use cover clips, cables, or water bags to secure the edges
• Consider using an air pillow for above-ground pools to help distribute pressure

Check the cover periodically during winter and remove standing water or heavy debris if necessary.

Helpful Winter Pool Care Tips

• Inspect your pool cover periodically throughout the winter
• Remove excess water or debris from the cover surface
• If warm weather occurs early in spring, check for algae growth beneath the cover
• Add additional algaecide if necessary before opening

Need More Pool Closing Tips?

Using a Doheny’s Winter Closing Kit simplifies the pool closing process and helps keep your pool protected throughout the winter season.