Summer’s over, the kids are headed back to class, and you can almost taste your first Pumpkin Spice Latte. While everyone else is stocking up on school supplies, your pool’s getting ready for its own kind of homework, winter prep.

Closing your pool for the season isn’t the glamorous side of pool ownership (no one’s bragging about “pool closing day” on Instagram). But how you close your pool in the fall sets the stage for what you’ll find when you pull off your cover next spring.

Do it right, and your pool passes winter with straight A’s. Clear water, healthy plaster, and a stress-free opening. Do it wrong and you could be staring at cracks, ripped liners, or a swampy mess that makes serving detention look fun.

With this guide we’ll cover everything from setting the perfect water level to keeping sneaky winter algae in check. Here’s your pool closing syllabus for winterizing your pool.

Lesson 1: Water Level 101

Water level is everything when it comes to winterizing. If it’s too high, water can sneak behind your tile line and cause pop-offs (better known as expensive tile repairs). Too low, and you risk cracks in your plaster or epa ripped liner.

The sweet spot is keeping your waterline about one inch below the skimmer.

And whatever you do, don’t drain your pool completely. Empty pools are exposed to dry, cold air, which makes plaster shrink and crack. Think of balanced water as your pool’s winter blanket—it keeps everything safe until spring protecting your pool shell, helping it survive freeze/thaw cycles and even blocking UV damage.

And if you’re looking for extra credit, check your pool’s water level every so often through the winter. If the water creeps too high (above the tile line) it can put stress on the tile and bond beam, leading to cracks or costly damage.

Lesson 2: Outsmart Sneaky Winter Algae

Pop quiz: Does algae grow in cold weather?

Answer: Yes. (Just slower.)

It’s totally possible to uncover your pool in the spring and find a slimy, green science experiment gone wrong.

Here’s the cheat sheet to keeping algae in check during the winter months:

• Keep it covered. Always use a pool cover to block debris and prevent calcium crystals.
• Balance your water chemistry (pH, alkalinity, chlorine) before closing.
• Brush + vacuum. Give your pool a good scrub before covering.
• Add chlorine if needed. And don’t forget to check in during the off-season.
• Winterize your equipment. Drain pumps, filters, and anything else per manufacturer instructions.

Follow these tips and you’re sure to pass the test, and algae won’t stand a chance.

Lesson 3: Do Some Fall Pool Prepwork

Just like reviewing your notes before a big exam, prepping your pool before the leaves drop makes closing your pool so much smoother.

Clean + Balance the Water

• Scoop debris, vacuum, brush it down.
• Adjust pH, alkalinity, and chlorine.
• Consider adding a phosphate remover to stop algae before it starts.

Balanced water keeps the algae, stains and scale buildup away. Need a tutor, or more help understanding your water chemistry? Get our full guide here.

Trim the Jungle Around Your Pool

• Cut back overhanging limbs and shrubs.
• Clear out weak branches that might snap in a storm.
• Clean nearby gutters so leaves don’t wash into your pool.

Most fall messes come from plants and trees dumping leaves, berries, and twigs into the water. Here’s everything you need to know about stubborn pool stains.

Give Your Equipment a Once-Over

• Inspect pump, filter, and heater for wear or damage.
• Empty skimmer + pump baskets.
• Schedule a professional inspection or winterization service.

Fixing a small problem now saves you from a full breakdown later, especially when it’s freezing and harder to book service.

The Final Exam

Closing your pool the right way isn’t just about tossing on a cover. It’s about protecting your plaster, keeping algae at bay, and making sure your pool is prepped to ace spring opening.

Want your pool looking its best for next season? We’ve got you covered. Whether it needs small updates or a full makeover, we’re here to help. Tap here for a free quote and let’s get your pool looking straight-A ready for next season.