How Do You Close an Above Ground Chlorine Pool?

Closing your above ground chlorine pool for the off-season involves a series of preparatory steps to protect your pool and its equipment from winter elements. Based on the provided reference, the process follows these six key steps:

Steps to Close Your Above Ground Pool

Preparing your above ground chlorine pool for winter is crucial for its longevity and making opening it in the spring easier. The recommended steps are straightforward and focus on cleaning, chemically treating, and properly covering the pool.

Here are the essential steps, according to the reference:

1. Step 1: Prepare the Water and Equipment.
2. Step 2: Clean the Pool.
3. Step 3: Add Winterizing Chemicals.
4. Step 4: Drain Some of the Water.
5. Step 5: Add the Air Pillow.
6. Step 6: Add Your Cover.

Detailed Pool Closing Process

Following these steps ensures your pool is properly prepared for the colder months:

• Step 1: Prepare the Water and Equipment
  Before you begin cleaning, make sure your water chemistry is balanced. This often involves testing pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness and adjusting as needed. Also, ensure your filter and pump are running efficiently before starting the closing process.
• Step 2: Clean the Pool
  Thoroughly vacuum the pool bottom and brush the walls to remove any debris, algae, or dirt. Skim the surface to clear leaves and other floating material. A clean pool before winterization helps prevent staining and makes spring opening easier.
• Step 3: Add Winterizing Chemicals
  Winterizing chemical kits typically include algaecide, stain inhibitor, and a shock treatment designed for winter use. Adding these according to the manufacturer's instructions prevents algae growth and mineral staining during the off-season.
• Step 4: Drain Some of the Water
  For above ground pools, you typically need to drain the water level below the skimmer and return lines. This protects the plumbing lines from freezing damage. Consult your pool's manual for the exact recommended water level for winter.
• Step 5: Add the Air Pillow
  An air pillow, or ice equalizer, is placed in the center of the pool under the cover. It absorbs pressure from ice formation on the surface, protecting the pool walls from damage. Partially inflate the pillow and tie it off to keep it centered.
• Step 6: Add Your Cover
  Securely fastening a proper winter cover over your pool is the final step. The cover keeps debris out and blocks sunlight, inhibiting algae growth. Ensure it is tightly secured using cables and winches, if necessary, to withstand wind and snow.

Summary Table: Above Ground Pool Closing Steps

Step	Action	Purpose
1	Prepare Water & Equipment	Balance chemistry, ensure system function.
2	Clean the Pool	Remove debris and prevent staining/algae.
3	Add Winterizing Chemicals	Inhibit algae and prevent stains.
4	Drain Some Water	Protect plumbing from freezing.
5	Add Air Pillow	Absorb ice pressure, protect walls.
6	Add Your Cover	Keep debris out, block sun.

By following these six steps, you can effectively close your above ground chlorine pool for the winter season, ensuring it remains protected and ready for a smooth opening in the spring.