As the swimming season comes to an end, every pool owner faces the same question:
Should I close my pool myself or hire a professional?
While a DIY pool closing may seem like a way to save money, even one small mistake can lead to frozen plumbing, damaged equipment, algae growth, and expensive spring repairs. On the other hand, professional pool closing ensures your pool is properly winterized and ready for the colder months ahead.
In this guide, we’ll compare DIY and professional pool closing, explain the advantages and disadvantages of each, and help you decide which option is best for your pool and budget.
Why Proper Pool Closing Matters
Closing your pool isn’t simply putting on a winter cover.
A proper pool closing includes preparing your entire pool system for freezing temperatures.
This typically includes:
- Balancing water chemistry
- Lowering the water level (when required)
- Blowing out plumbing lines
- Draining pumps, filters, and heaters
- Installing winter plugs and Gizmos
- Adding winterizing chemicals
- Installing a secure winter cover
- Final equipment inspection
Skipping or performing any of these steps incorrectly can result in expensive damage over the winter.
DIY Pool Closing
Many homeowners successfully maintain their pools during summer and naturally wonder if they can close them too.
The answer is yes but only if you understand every step and have the right equipment.
Benefits of DIY Pool Closing
Lower upfront cost
The biggest advantage is saving the labor cost of hiring a professional.
Flexible schedule
You can close your pool whenever it suits you instead of waiting for an appointment.
Learning experience
Some homeowners enjoy learning more about their pool system.
Challenges of DIY Pool Closing
Pool closing is far more technical than routine maintenance.
Common challenges include:
- Balancing chemicals correctly
- Completely removing water from plumbing lines
- Properly winterizing equipment
- Knowing the correct water level
- Installing the cover securely
- Identifying equipment problems before winter
Without the right tools and experience, mistakes become much more likely.
Professional Pool Closing
Hiring a professional means your pool is winterized using proven procedures and specialized equipment.
Instead of guessing, experienced technicians prepare your pool based on its type, equipment, and plumbing configuration.
A professional service typically includes:
- Water testing
- Chemical balancing
- Lowering water level
- Blowing out plumbing lines
- Draining equipment
- Installing winter plugs
- Winter chemicals
- Safety cover installation
- Equipment inspection
Many companies also identify small maintenance issues before they become expensive repairs.
DIY vs Professional Pool Closing Comparison
| DIY Pool Closing | Professional Pool Closing |
|---|---|
| Lower initial cost | Professional expertise |
| Requires specialized equipment | Specialized tools included |
| Risk of mistakes | Proper winterization |
| Time-consuming | Convenient and efficient |
| No equipment inspection | Equipment checked during service |
| Higher chance of spring repairs | Reduced risk of winter damage |
Common DIY Mistakes
Every fall, pool professionals see the same mistakes repeated.
Closing the Pool Too Early
Warm water encourages algae growth.
Most New Jersey pools should be closed once the water temperature consistently falls below 65°F.
Not Blowing Out Plumbing Lines
Water trapped in plumbing expands when frozen.
This can crack underground pipes and fittings.
Forgetting Equipment
Pumps, filters, heaters, chlorinators, and valves all contain water that must be properly drained.
Incorrect Water Chemistry
Unbalanced water can lead to staining, scaling, corrosion, and algae growth during winter.
Improper Cover Installation
A loose or poorly installed cover allows leaves, debris, and excess water into the pool.
When DIY Makes Sense
DIY may be suitable if you:
- Have several years of pool ownership experience
- Understand winterization procedures
- Own the necessary equipment
- Feel comfortable blowing out plumbing lines
- Have successfully closed your pool before
When You Should Hire a Professional
Professional pool closing is usually the better choice if:
- You’re a first-time pool owner.
- Your pool has complex equipment.
- You own a saltwater pool.
- You have a heater or automation system.
- You don’t own an air compressor or winterization equipment.
- You want peace of mind before winter.
What Does Fresh Pool Service Include?
Our professional pool closing service includes:
- Complete equipment inspection
- Water chemistry balancing
- Water level adjustment
- Plumbing line blowout
- Pump, filter, and heater winterization
- Skimmer winterization
- Winter plugs and Gizmos
- Winter chemicals
- Safety cover installation
- Final inspection
We proudly serve homeowners throughout Bergen County, Passaic County, Morris County, and New Milford.
Is Professional Pool Closing Worth the Cost?
For many homeowners, the answer is yes.
Replacing frozen plumbing, repairing pumps, or fixing cracked filters often costs significantly more than the price of professional pool closing.
Professional winterization also saves time, reduces stress, and makes spring opening much easier.
While experienced homeowners may successfully close their own pools, professional pool closing offers added confidence that every step has been completed correctly.
If you’re unsure about winterizing your pool or simply want to avoid the risk of costly spring repairs, hiring an experienced professional is often the safest choice.
At Fresh Pool Service, we help homeowners throughout Bergen County, Passaic County, Morris County, and New Milford prepare their pools for winter with reliable, professional pool closing services.
Ready to Protect Your Pool This Winter?
Don’t wait until freezing temperatures arrive.
Contact Fresh Pool Service today to request a free quote and schedule your professional pool closing service before the fall rush.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I close my pool without blowing out the lines?
No. Water left in plumbing can freeze and expand, potentially causing damage to pipes, fittings, and pool equipment.
Is pool closing difficult?
Proper pool closing requires the correct tools, experience, and knowledge of your pool system to avoid costly winter damage.
What temperature should I close my pool?
Most pools in New Jersey should be closed once the water temperature consistently stays below 65°F.
How long does professional pool closing take?
Most residential pool closings take around 2–4 hours, depending on the pool and equipment.
Can saltwater pools be winterized?
Yes. Saltwater pools follow a similar winterization process, with a few additional considerations for the salt system.