How to Close Your Pool for Winter (Step-by-Step Guide)

Properly closing your pool for winter helps protect your equipment, prevent damage, and make opening your pool in the spring much easier. With the right steps and products, you can keep your water clean and your pool protected during the off-season.

This guide walks you through the process of winterizing your pool and using a closing kit for best results.

Before You Close Your Pool

Before starting the closing process, make sure your pool is clean and properly balanced:

• Remove debris (skim, brush, and vacuum)
• Test and balance water chemistry
• Ensure water is clear and free of algae

Starting with clean, balanced water helps prevent staining and algae growth over the winter months. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Use a Pool Closing Kit

Using a complete winterizing kit is one of the easiest ways to ensure your pool is properly treated before closing.

👉 Shop Doheny’s Winter Closing Kits 

• Pre-measured chemicals for your pool size
• Simplifies the winterizing process
• Helps prevent algae, staining, and buildup

Step-by-Step: How to Close Your Pool

1. Stop Chlorination

Stop adding chlorine at least 24 hours before closing your pool. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

2. Add Winterizing Chemicals

• Add winter algaecide or winter guard product
• Add metal control product to prevent staining
• Add shock treatment around the pool perimeter

Allow your pump to run for at least one hour to circulate chemicals evenly. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

3. Lower Water Level

Lower the water level below the skimmer and return lines to help prevent freeze damage.

4. Drain and Protect Equipment

• Drain pump, filter, heater, and plumbing lines
• Add pool antifreeze if needed
• Leave plugs out so water can fully drain

5. Install Winterizing Accessories

• Install plugs in return lines
• Add a floating dispenser if included in your kit

6. Cover Your Pool

Secure a winter cover over your pool to protect it from debris and harsh weather.

Winter Cover Care Tips

• Maintain proper water level to support the cover
• Remove excess water with a cover pump
• Gently remove snow with a broom (avoid sharp tools)

Regularly checking your cover helps prevent damage and keeps your pool protected during winter. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Why Proper Pool Closing Matters

• Prevents algae growth
• Protects equipment from freezing
• Reduces spring cleanup time
• Extends the life of your pool and components

Taking the time to close your pool correctly can save time, effort, and costs when reopening in the spring.

Need Help Closing Your Pool?

If you have questions about winterizing your pool or selecting the right closing kit, our Doheny's Customer Care team is here to help.

📞 Phone: 800-574-7665
💬 Contact Page: www.doheny.com/contact
🌐 Help Center: www.doheny.com/help