Closing your vinyl pool properly is essential to protect your investment and ensure a smooth opening next spring. Unfortunately, many homeowners rush the process or overlook key steps, leading to costly liner damage, plumbing issues, or even algae blooms once the weather warms up. Knowing the top mistakes people make can help you avoid them when closing your vinyl pool. Today, we at Metropolitan Pools would like to discuss the common mistakes homeowners make when closing a vinyl pool.
Draining Too Much Water
One of the biggest errors homeowners make is draining too much water before closing. Unlike concrete or fiberglass pools, vinyl liners rely on water pressure to stay in place. When you remove too much water, the liner can shift, wrinkle, or even tear. It’s best to lower the water level only enough to sit just below the skimmer opening, usually a few inches below the return jets. This maintains liner tension while still leaving room for winter expansion.
Ignoring Chemical Balancing
Failing to balance your pool’s chemicals before closing can cause significant problems over winter. Unbalanced water can lead to corrosion, scale buildup, and liner discoloration. Before closing, always test and adjust your pool’s pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness. Adding a winterizing chemical kit helps prevent algae growth and protects your water from contamination during the off-season.
Forgetting to Clean the Pool Thoroughly
Closing a dirty pool is a recipe for headaches in the spring. Dirt, leaves, and debris left in the water can cause staining and make it easier for algae to take hold. Take time to vacuum the pool, brush the walls and floor, and skim the surface before adding your winter chemicals. A clean start ensures clearer water and less work when reopening.
Not Blowing Out the Plumbing Lines
Frozen pipes are a pool owner’s worst nightmare. Water expands as it freezes, and that can crack pipes, fittings, or your pool pump. One of the most critical steps in vinyl pool closing is using an air compressor or blower to clear water from all plumbing lines, including the skimmer, returns, and main drain. Once the lines are dry, add pool antifreeze (not automotive antifreeze) to help protect them through the cold months.
Using a Low-Quality or Damaged Cover
A durable, properly fitted winter cover keeps debris out and protects your pool from the elements. However, many homeowners reuse worn or poorly fitting covers. Holes or sagging fabric can allow debris and rainwater to collect, creating stress on your liner and making spring cleanup more difficult. Investing in a good-quality safety or solid cover ensures your pool stays protected and secure.
Skipping Professional Help
DIY pool closing can save a little money upfront, but mistakes can be expensive to fix later. Professional vinyl pool closing services have the right tools, experience, and knowledge to properly winterize your system and protect your liner. They can also spot small issues, like leaks or wear, that might worsen over the winter.
Vinyl Pool Installation, Repair, Maintenance & More in Sandusky, Lorain, Elyria, Medina, Parma, Mentor, Akron & Greater Cleveland, Ohio
Closing your vinyl pool may seem straightforward, but skipping steps or cutting corners can lead to costly repairs and frustrating openings in spring. By avoiding these common mistakes, or better yet, hiring a professional pool service, you can ensure your vinyl pool stays clean, protected, and ready for another season of fun in the sun. Contact Metropolitan Pools for vinyl pool services.