In many areas of the United States, Labor Day marks the end of summer, prompting pool owners to consider closing pools for the season. While there are still days off at the pool, there aren't many of them, so it's time to start thinking about the steps needed to prepare your pool for seasonal closures.

Here are our top tips for closing a pool:

1. Balance the chemical composition of the pool water – A few days before the planned closure of the pool, adjust your water balance within the following limits: pH: 7.2 – 7.6; Alkalinity: 80 – 120 ppm; Calcium Hardness: 180 – 220 ppm After balancing the pool chemistry, you should shock the pool with chlorine or non-chlorine shock of at least one pound per 10,000 gallons (follow package directions). Wait for chlorine levels to return to 1.0 – 3.0 ppm before adding winter algaecide and pond cover. You can check out here if you are looking for pool enclosures.

2. Remove All Pool Accessories – Put down all ladders, pool covers, toys, etc. in a safe place for the winter. Do not wind the pool cleaning hose too tightly.

3. Drain the pool – Using a submersible pump or filter, lower the pool water level by lowering the pool height between 12 and 18 inches below the skimmer for a mesh cover and 3 to 6 inches below the tile for a solid float cover.

4. All filter, pump, heating, and chlorinating equipment must be dried – To prevent freezing and cracking, all equipment must be drained of water before storage. After emptying, remove the filter and clean it thoroughly. If the filter and pump are small enough, you can remove them, clean them, and store them indoors. If this is not possible, you can blow the remaining air with a workshop vacuum cleaner.

5. Lubricate the o-ring – It is recommended to lubricate the o-ring on the pump cover when closing the pool. If the pool has a filter gate, lubricate the o-ring as well. Consider lubricating your gas heater threads.