Well, here we are again. Another summer gone by, which means it’s time to start thinking about closing your pool for the colder months ahead, if you haven’t already.
In years past – and throughout our website – we’ve provided some helpful tips on how to close your swimming pool. But another common question that pool owners have is: When do I close my pool?
Closing your pool at the end of the summer season is very important. By doing so, you’ll help to keep the water clear over winter, so it’s easier to open next year. But even more importantly, closing your pool properly helps prolong the life of the equipment and prevent damage from harsh winter weather.
As for when to close a swimming pool, that’s partly a personal preference. Here are a few things to consider.
- Local weather conditions
Here in Central PA, most pool owners start thinking about closing the pool in September or October. If the weather is still nice, and you’re actively using the pool, there’s no reason you can’t keep enjoying into the fall season while the water temperature is still warm and easy to maintain. - Are you actually using it?
After Labor Day, you’ll probably notice that you and your family simply aren’t using the pool as much anymore. Perhaps it’s because the kids are back at school. Or maybe the day temperatures just haven’t seemed hot enough. Either way, this is probably a good time to start getting the pool ready for winter. - Leaves!
Even if you don’t have mature trees directly on your property, you’re probably already working harder to remove leaves from your pool at this time of year. And for those of you with lots of trees, you know how quickly the leaf buildup can become a headache. Closing your pool in early fall helps eliminate that hassle and makes it easier to cover the pool before the leaves begin to fall. - Freezing temperatures
Freezing temperatures are an important threat in two ways: 1) Freezing water can do serious damage to pool components if you haven’t properly closed the pool. But also: 2) Nobody likes closing a pool when it’s cold outside! September and October are a good time to close the pool because the weather is ideal. It’s still warm to be outside, enjoying the sun, even if you hate to say goodbye to summer. But once those temperatures start dropping significantly, you’re going to kick yourself for not closing the pool sooner.
Need help closing your pool?
Give us a call! We’re happy to guide you through the steps for winterizing your pool, or we can send out our skilled service professionals to do it for you. Request service online or call our Pool Service Department at (717) 534-1837.