When to Close Your Pool in the Hudson Valley (and How to Do It Right)

Fall in the Hudson Valley comes fast. One week you’re still swimming, the next you’re raking leaves out of the skimmer. Closing your pool at the right time, and the right way, protects your liner, plumbing and equipment through the winter and makes spring opening much easier.

When Should You Close Your Pool?

The best time to close is when the water temperature stays below about 65°F. Below that point, algae grows much more slowly, so the winter chemicals you add last longer and your pool stays cleaner under the cover.

Closing too early, while the weather is still warm, gives algae more time to grow before the water cools down. Closing too late raises the risk of a hard freeze before your lines and equipment are protected. For most homeowners in Orange County and the surrounding Hudson Valley, that sweet spot falls somewhere in the fall once the warm days are behind us.

Pool Closing Checklist

Every pool is a little different, but a proper closing usually includes these steps:

1. Clean the pool. Skim, brush and vacuum so you aren’t leaving leaves and debris to sit all winter.
2. Test and balance the water. Get pH, alkalinity and calcium hardness in range before adding winter chemicals. Balanced water helps protect your liner and surfaces.
3. Shock the pool. Add shock to break down contaminants before the pool sits closed.
4. Add winterizing chemicals. A winter algaecide and stain-and-scale treatment help keep the water clear until spring.
5. Lower the water level. Depending on your cover type, the water is typically lowered below the skimmer and return lines.
6. Blow out and plug the lines. Clearing water out of the plumbing is one of the most important steps. Water left in the lines can freeze and crack pipes.
7. Winterize the equipment. Drain the pump, filter and heater, and store any parts that shouldn’t sit outside.
8. Install your cover. A properly fitted safety cover keeps debris out and adds a layer of protection for kids and pets.

Common Pool Closing Mistakes

• Skipping the water test. Unbalanced water can be hard on your liner over the winter months.
• Not clearing the lines completely. This is where freeze damage usually starts.
• Leaving debris in the pool. Leaves break down and can stain the liner and use up your winter chemicals.
• A loose or worn cover. Check your safety cover for wear and make sure it’s secured properly.

Let Us Handle Your Pool Closing

Our service team handles pool closings across the Hudson Valley, including blowing out lines, winterizing equipment and installing your safety cover. If you’d rather do it yourself, stop by our Goshen store. Bring in a water sample and we’ll test it and help you pick the right closing chemicals.

It’s also a great time to look at your liner. If it’s faded, wrinkled or pulling from the track, see our liner replacement options so your pool is ready to go next spring.