When the swimming season ends, many homeowners focus on one thing: getting their pool ready for winter. While pool closing may seem straightforward, even a small mistake can lead to expensive repairs once spring arrives.
Frozen plumbing lines, cracked pumps, damaged filters, algae growth, and torn winter covers are just a few of the problems caused by improper winterization.
Whether you’re planning to close your pool yourself or hire a professional, understanding the most common mistakes can help protect your investment.
In this guide, we’ll cover seven pool closing mistakes that could cost you thousands of dollars and how to avoid them.
Why Proper Pool Closing Matters
Closing a pool isn’t simply installing a winter cover and walking away.
A professional pool closing includes:
- Testing and balancing water chemistry
- Lowering the water level if necessary
- Blowing out plumbing lines
- Draining pumps, filters, and heaters
- Installing winter plugs and Gizmos
- Adding winterizing chemicals
- Installing a properly fitted winter cover
- Performing a final equipment inspection
Skipping any of these steps increases the risk of winter damage.
Mistake #1: Closing Your Pool Too Early
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is closing their pool while the water is still warm.
Warm water encourages algae growth, even under a winter cover. This often leads to green, cloudy water and extra cleaning costs when opening the pool in spring.
What to do instead
Wait until the water temperature consistently stays below 65°F (18°C) before closing your pool.
Mistake #2: Not Balancing the Water Chemistry
Many homeowners assume chemicals don’t matter once the pool is closed.
In reality, unbalanced water can cause:
- Staining
- Scale buildup
- Corrosion
- Algae growth
- Damage to pool surfaces
What to do instead
Before winterizing your pool:
- Adjust pH
- Balance total alkalinity
- Check calcium hardness
- Shock the pool if needed
- Add winterizing chemicals
Balanced water helps protect your pool throughout the off-season.
Mistake #3: Leaving Water in the Plumbing Lines
This is one of the most expensive mistakes.
If water remains inside plumbing lines during freezing temperatures, it expands and can crack underground pipes, return lines, skimmers, and fittings.
What to do instead
Use the proper equipment to completely blow out all plumbing lines before sealing them with winter plugs.
Mistake #4: Forgetting to Drain Pool Equipment
Your pump, filter, heater, chlorinator, and other equipment can all retain water.
When that water freezes, expensive damage can occur.
Equipment that should be winterized
- Pool pump
- Filter
- Heater
- Chlorinator
- Valves
- Pressure gauges
A thorough inspection before winter helps identify any maintenance issues as well.
Mistake #5: Installing the Winter Cover Incorrectly
A loose or damaged cover allows leaves, debris, rainwater, and snow to enter your pool.
It may also tear during winter storms.
What to do instead
Make sure your cover:
- Fits correctly
- Is securely fastened
- Has no tears or damage
- Is free from excessive debris
A properly installed safety cover offers the best protection during the winter months.
Mistake #6: Ignoring Small Equipment Problems
Many homeowners postpone minor repairs until spring.
Unfortunately, small issues often become much larger after months of freezing temperatures.
Examples include:
- Worn pump seals
- Small plumbing leaks
- Loose fittings
- Damaged O-rings
- Cracked skimmer baskets
Addressing these issues before winter can prevent much more expensive repairs later.
Mistake #7: Assuming DIY Is Always Cheaper
Closing your own pool can save money initially, but one mistake may cost far more than professional winterization.
Potential repair costs include:
- Cracked plumbing
- Damaged pumps
- Broken filters
- Heater repairs
- Green pool cleanup
- Replacement safety covers
For many homeowners, professional pool closing provides peace of mind and helps reduce the risk of costly spring repairs.
How Professional Pool Closing Helps Prevent These Mistakes
At Fresh Pool Service, every pool closing includes a systematic winterization process designed for New Jersey’s climate.
Our service includes:
- Complete equipment inspection
- Water chemistry balancing
- Plumbing line blowout
- Equipment winterization
- Winter chemical treatment
- Safety cover installation
- Final inspection
We proudly serve homeowners throughout Bergen County, Passaic County, Morris County, and surrounding Northern New Jersey communities.
Signs Your Pool May Need Professional Winterization
Professional pool closing is a smart choice if:
- You’re a first-time pool owner.
- Your pool has a heater or automation system.
- You own a saltwater pool.
- You don’t have the equipment to blow out plumbing lines.
- You’ve experienced winter damage in the past.
Final Thoughts
Proper pool closing protects your investment and helps ensure an easier pool opening next spring.
While some experienced homeowners choose the DIY route, avoiding these common mistakes can save significant time, money, and frustration.
If you’d like peace of mind knowing your pool has been professionally winterized, Fresh Pool Service is here to help.
Schedule Your Pool Closing Today
Protect your pool before freezing temperatures arrive.
Our licensed and insured team provides professional pool closing services throughout Bergen County, Passaic County, Morris County, and nearby communities.
Contact Fresh Pool Service today to request your free quote and reserve your preferred pool closing appointment.