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Atlantis Pool Service & Supply Co.

13811 S. 80th Avenue, Orland Park, IL 60462-1707
(708) 349-6783
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Guidelines for Closing Your Pool

It is recommended that you contract a pool professionals to winterize your pool. If you want to undertake the work of winterizing your own aboveground pool, keep these tips in mind:

  • Make sure that your chemical readings are ALL in range prior to closing your pool. If your chemicals are in range, it will be so much easier to re-attain water chemistry the next spring when the pool is again opened and operational. If your chemicals are not in range, your water very well may be a mess the next spring when the pool is opened.
  • Perform a final vacuum of the pool.
  • Once finished with the vacuum, clean the filter.
  • Add winterizing chemicals:
    • 2 LBS of chlorine-based shock. Dichlor (chlorine granules) would be the best choice. Since it is stabilized chlorine, it will do the best job at preventing algae growth while the pool is winterized. Be sure to fully dilute the granular chlorine in water before adding it to the pool.
    • 1 quart of a super strength Algaecide. Actually, many pool professionals sell a specially formulated Winterizing Algaeicde.
    • Many regions recommend adding a Metal Sequestering Agent. This is actually a good idea for any region. It will help prevent staining on your pool walls and floor while the pool is winterized.
  • Turn on the circulation for long enough to mix the solution throughout the pool water i.e. 24 hours if possible
  • Drain water approximately 3" below lowest plumbing line, which is typically the return jet.
  • While water is draining, remove ladder (or the in-pool step that is now available with aboveground pools) and skimmer basket.
  • Once water is below the lowest plumbing line, remove drain plug(s) from pump and drain plug/cap from the filter. If you have an automatic chemical feeder, remove plugs to drain the water. If you have a heater, disconnect the pressure switch and remove any plugs. Make sure all water is removed to prevent freezing (and damage) of the equipment over the winter.
  • Disconnect the hoses:
    • Skimmer to the suction side of the pump.
    • Discharge side of the pump to the filter.
    • Filter to the return jet.
  • If you are capable of moving the pump and filter into a garage or storage shed, it is a good idea. The pump is light and easy to carry. The filter is heavy. This is not necessary, but it does reduce the chance of freeze damage to any of your equipment.
  • Float one or two weighted and sealed polythene bottles (perhaps used chemical containers) on the pool surface
  • Cover the pool with a heavy duty pool cover.

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