How to Properly Close Your Above Ground Swimming Pool for Winter 2025

How to Close Your Above Ground Swimming Pool for Winter: A Complete Guide

As winter approaches, protecting your above ground swimming pool is essential to extend its lifespan and avoid costly repairs. Many pool owners overlook this step, but proper closure ensures your investment stays intact through freezing temperatures and harsh weather. This guide walks you through the essential steps to close your pool safely and effectively—based on 2025’s best practices.

Why Winterizing Your Pool Matters for Longevity

Freezing water expands, putting pressure on pool liners, frames, and hardware. Without winterization, cracks, leaks, and algae outbreaks become common. Even above ground pools are vulnerable—especially if left uncovered or exposed to snow and wind. Proper closure prevents costly damage, maintains water quality, and ensures a smooth spring reopening. Experts from the Pool & Spa Industry Association (2024) emphasize that consistent winter preparation reduces long-term maintenance by up to 40%.

Step-by-Step: How to Close Your Above Ground Pool for Winter 2025

1. Drain Excess Water and Blow Out the System Begin by draining standing water from the pool and return lines. Use a submersible pump to remove water from the skimmer and pump basket. For optimal results, blow out all plumbing components—including the pump, heater, and filter—using a garden air compressor to prevent ice blockages. This step is critical to avoid pipe bursting during freezing spells.

2. Clean and Protect the Filter System Backwash sand filters thoroughly and replace worn media if needed. For cartridge filters, remove, hose off debris, and store indoors or rinse under running water. Clean the skimmer and pump basket regularly to prevent clogs. According to the 2025 Pool CARE guidelines, a properly maintained filter system reduces chemical demand and extends equipment life by 25%.

3. Cover Your Pool Safely Use a durable, UV-resistant winter cover designed for above ground pools. Ensure it fits snugly—loose covers trap moisture and encourage mold. Secure edges with clips or weights; avoid tension on seams. A high-quality cover blocks debris, reduces evaporation, and shields the surface from sunlight and snow accumulation. Don’t skip this step—studies show covered pools suffer 60% fewer winter-related issues.

4. Inspect and Winterize Liners and Frames Clean the liner thoroughly with a mild, eco-friendly cleaner, then dry completely. Apply a pool liner protectant to prevent cracking. Check frame joints for gaps and seal with silicone caulk to block water seepage. Proper liner care prevents costly replacements and keeps the pool looking pristine until next season.

5. Maintain Water Chemistry and Treat for Winter Test water for pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels. Adjust to 7.2–7.6 pH and 1–3 ppm free chlorine. Use a stabilized shocking agent if needed, then lower chlorine to maintenance levels. This prevents algae growth and bacterial buildup during dormancy. The Centers for Disease Control (2024) recommends winter shock treatments to keep water safe and balanced.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Closing Your Pool

• Leaving debris in the pool or skimmer, which clogs systems and promotes mold.
  
• Failing to drain plumbing, risking burst pipes from freezing.
  
• Using a low-quality or ill-fitting cover, leading to poor insulation and damage.
  
• Skipping water chemistry checks, increasing risk of algae and corrosion.
  
• Ignoring frame and seam maintenance, leading to leaks and structural weakness.

By avoiding these pitfalls, you safeguard your pool’s condition and ensure a hassle-free transition into warmer months.

Final Thoughts: Take Action Now for a Healthy Season Ahead

Closing your above ground pool for winter isn’t just a task—it’s an investment in longevity and performance. With proper preparation, your pool will survive harsh conditions and reemerge ready for summer fun. Start today: gather supplies, follow each step carefully, and protect your backyard oasis. Don’t wait—your pool deserves care before the cold sets in.