Even if freezing temperatures are rare in your area, heavy rain, debris, and fluctuating weather can damage pool surfaces, plumbing, and equipment. Knowing how to winterize your pool will help protect your investment, reduce costly repairs, and make spring opening easier and faster. At Jovak Luxury Pools, we know that proper seasonal maintenance is a crucial part of keeping them at their best. That is why we have put together a step-by-step guide for closing your luxury pool for winter.
Some pool owners in milder climates think winterizing is not necessary; however, even a short cold snap can cause water in the plumbing to freeze, leading to cracks or burst pipes. Debris and algae growth can also take hold when the pool is left unattended, making spring cleaning much harder. Proper winterization:
Before closing the pool for the season, it is important to start with a spotless swimming environment. A clean pool is less likely to develop staining or cloudy water during the months it is closed. Make sure to skim and vacuum the pool to remove leaves, insects, and debris, and to brush the walls and floor to prevent algae spores from settling over the wintertime. You should also empty the skimmer and pump baskets to maintain proper water flow before lowering levels.
Water that is chemically balanced before closing is far less likely to cause problems while the pool is not in use. Here are some of the metrics that you need to keep in mind:
Once balanced, add a winterizing shock treatment to eliminate any lingering contaminants. This will help prevent algae blooms during the off-season.
The correct water level for winter depends on whether the pool is covered and the type of cover being used. This allows room for rain and snow without overfilling, which could put strain on the cover or cause overflow. For solid covers, lower the water level 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) below the skimmer opening. For mesh covers, lower it 30–45 cm (12–18 inches) below the skimmer.
Even in milder climates, freezing water inside plumbing lines can cause significant damage. Backwash the filter to remove dirt and debris, and drain the pump, filter, heater, and chlorinator according to manufacturer instructions. Blow out water lines using a shop-vac or air compressor to ensure no water remains, and finish by plugging return and skimmer lines with winterizing plugs. For additional protection, some pool owners choose to add non-toxic pool antifreeze to the lines, especially in areas more prone to freezing.
Ladders, diving boards, skimmer baskets, and return fittings should be removed, cleaned, and stored in a dry, sheltered location for the winter. This not only protects them from weathering but also makes covering the pool easier.
A durable pool cover is essential for keeping debris out and protecting the water during winter.
Whichever type you choose, make sure the cover is installed tightly and inspected periodically throughout winter to prevent sagging or tearing.
Winterizing does not mean forgetting about the pool until spring. Periodic checks can prevent minor issues from turning into major repairs. You want to:
Many custom pools in the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley feature additional elements such as waterfalls, integrated spas, or automated cleaning systems. These require specific winterizing steps:
Your pool builder or service provider can walk you through the correct winterizing process for these high-end features.
While many homeowners can handle basic winterization steps, hiring a professional ensures the process is done thoroughly. Professional winterization offers peace of mind that the pool will be protected from both weather and neglect. Pool technicians have the equipment and experience to:
At Jovak Luxury Pools, we do not just design and build exceptional pools, we help homeowners care for them year-round. Whether you want advice on winterizing your current pool or are looking to install a new pool, we are here to ensure your pool stays beautiful and functional for years to come. Get in touch with us today.