How much does it cost to close and winterize a pool?
The cost of repairing those problems will be far more than you would have paid for a professional to do the closing. Pool services usually charge anywhere from $150 to $400 to close and winterize a pool. A small above-ground pool will fall on the lower end of that price range, while a large in-ground pool will fall on the higher end.
How much does it cost to heat a swimming pool in winter?
If you are undecided on what sort of heating system to use for your pool in the winter, here is a comparison of your options. Solar heating harnesses the sun to get a pool as warm as 80 degrees, but not much higher. Solar kit: $1,000 – $4,800. Installation: $500 – $2,500. Annual costs: $30 – $75.
What happens if you don’t winterize your pool?
Failing to winterize a pool can lead to burst pipes, a damaged or failed filtration system, cracked tiles or walls and more. The cost of repairing those problems will be far more than you would have paid for a professional to do the closing. Pool services usually charge anywhere from $150 to $400 to close and winterize a pool.
How do you winterize a swimming pool?
To do this, use a wet-dry vacuum or compressed air to remove water from the line. Afterward, an antifreeze may be placed in the pipes. The equipment should then be plugged to prevent water from getting inside. With the right tools, winterizing is certainly something a pool owner can handle, but if you don’t feel confident, hire a pool professional.
How much does it cost to drain a pool to winterize?
When draining a pool to close or winterize it, the standard suggestion is to drain approximately 4-6 in (10-15 cm) from the top of the pool or 2-3 in (5-7 cm) below the skimmer.
Is winterizing a pool necessary?
You will want to close your pool properly over the winter to prevent freezes from damaging expensive pool equipment. Surface freezes can also tear through vinyl liners as a result of ice expansion. A second reason to winterize your pool is because most people completely stop maintenance over the winter.
How do you winterize a pool?
Steps for Winterizing an In-Ground PoolStep 1: Remove pool accessories. ... Step 2: Deep clean the pool. ... Step 3: Adjust the water chemistry. ... Step 4: Lower the water level. ... Step 5: Drain and store the equipment. ... Step 6: Add shock and algaecide. ... Step 7: Cover the pool.
Do you have to winterize your inground pool?
If left open and operating, a swimming pool has water circulating through its pipes; when this water freezes and expands its mass, it can burst the pipes and damage equipment like the filter or pump! That's why it critical to properly close down your pool for winter.
What happens if a pool is not winterized?
Without winterizing your pool, the water could turn green with algae. If the chlorine system stops functioning, you'll say adieu to the beautiful blue pool you know and love. Come spring, your pool will be a homely sight and cause a real dent in your wallet. Bacteria that feed on algae could even cause health risks.
Is it OK to leave a pool uncovered in winter?
Pool covers block both debris and sunlight from entering your pool — conserving winter chemicals and protecting the pool's structure. We recommend using a winter pool cover to provide your pool with the best protection possible over the chill months.
At what temperature should you winterize your pool?
around 65 degreesOur rule of thumb is to wait until the temperature is consistently around 65 degrees. This is the best time to winterize and close your pool. In our climate, the best practice is to cover your pool and winterize the piping and equipment before freezing temperatures occur.
Does winterizing pool keep it from freezing?
When it comes to in-ground pool maintenance, one of the most important tasks on the list for those who live in climates where temperatures fall below freezing in the winter is to fully winterize the pool. Winterizing your pool will help prevent damage to system components from freezing and expanding water.
What chemicals do I need to close my pool?
What chemicals do I need to close my pool?Chlorine.Pool Shock.Soda Ash.Baking Soda.Muriatic Acid.Winter Algaecide.Pool Antifreeze.Stain and Scale Prevention.
How do I prepare my inground pool for winter?
How to Winterize Your Inground PoolRemove Ladders and Accessories. Loosen the ladder anchor socket bolt. ... Balance Water Chemistry. ... Clean the Pool. ... Lower the Water Level. ... Turn off System Components. ... Add Winter Closing Kit Chemicals. ... Drain Pump and Filter. ... Blow out Water Lines.More items...•
How much liquid chlorine do I need to winterize my pool?
The most important factor though is the size of the pool. You'll need about 52-104 oz of liquid chlorine per 10,000 gallons of water. This amount should get the chlorine level to between 5 and 10 ppm.
Can I use bleach to winterize my pool?
Household bleach, Clorox and liquid chlorine can all be used to sanitize a pool. They are all types of chlorine. Household bleaches such as Clorox usually contain about 5-6% available chlorine, about half that of pool liquid chlorine. Household bleaches often have unwanted fragrances and colors.
What happens if you don't winterize an inground pool?
Your Pool Could Crack If you don't, you could experience cracks. Surface cracks are very common in pools that don't get winterized. Harsh conditions can lead to cracks as well as any water that is left inside the pool. That water will likely freeze and could lead to surface cracks.
When should I close my pool in Arkansas?
It is best to close your pool when the temperature of the water is consistently below 60 degrees. Once the water temperature drops below 60 degrees, microorganisms and algae cannot grow and become dormant for the winter season.
Do you winterize a pool in South Carolina?
Winterizing Your Home Pool in South Carolina. You may be wondering if you need to winterize your pool if you live in South Carolina. The answer is yes, and it's a much easier process than you may be thinking.
Does winterizing pool keep it from freezing?
When it comes to in-ground pool maintenance, one of the most important tasks on the list for those who live in climates where temperatures fall below freezing in the winter is to fully winterize the pool. Winterizing your pool will help prevent damage to system components from freezing and expanding water.
How much does it cost to have someone close your pool?
The average cost to have a professional close your pool is around $200 to $300. Your costs can be higher if you have special equipment.
What chemicals should I put in my pool when closing?
All pools should be shocked before closing. After this, it is typical to add an algaecide and stabilizer to the pool water. You also need to balanc...
Do I have to drain my above-ground pool for winter?
No, you should lower the waterline by about 12” and place an air pillow on the remaining water before covering it. Draining your pool completely...
How much does it cost to close a pool permanently?
Permanently closing a pool costs between $5,000 and $10,000, depending on the size and what needs to be done. Some pools can be broken into the cav...
Can I leave my in-ground pool empty?
Leaving your pool empty in a climate that experiences freeze/thaw temperatures causes serious damage to the liner or pool. Lowering the water leve...
Can you leave water in a pool over winter?
Yes, you should leave water in the pool over the winter, only lowering it to below the tile line or skimmer to prevent damage. Draining the pool...
How do you winterize your pool?
Winterizing a pool is done by shocking it, cleaning it well, removing, draining, and lubricating equipment, and lowering the water level before cov...
What is included in a pool closing?
This varies by company. Some pool companies clean and shock your pool, remove, lubricate, and store equipment, and cover the pool. Others only hand...
Is it true that an above-ground pool freezes solidly?
Aboveground Wall Collapse: Either the cover will rip or the pool walls will collapse inward if a pool begins to leak water while the winter pool cover is frozen solid into the ice sheet. Use enough Air Pillows to cover about 10% of the pool’s surface area because water expands about 9% when it freezes.
Do you have a winter inground pool to drain?
Draining your pool below skimmer levels is the standard so that you can clean out the plumbing system during the winter to avoid frozen, burst lines. If you have an in-ground pool, it may be more draining. You’ll need more water in your pool if you do this than others.
Is it necessary to drain an inground pool during the winter?
Draining your pool below skimmer levels is the standard so that you can clean out the plumbing system during the winter to avoid frozen, burst lines. If you have an in-ground pool, it may be more draining. You’ll need more water in your pool if you do this than others.
What does it mean to winterize a pool?
If you own an in-ground pool and live in a climate with normal freezing temperatures, you’ll need to winterize it to keep it safe during the cold months. This will protect it from freezing water damage and keep it as clean as possible for the following season.
Is it possible for the Fire Department to fill swimming pools?
The fire department will not dispatch a truck to your home to fill up your swimming pool, according to the latest news. Fire trucks’ water is neither potable nor suitable for swimming. The inside of the tanks is never cleaned by the department.
How many dollars does it take to fill a pool?
According to Wolfram Alpha, a dollar bill has a volume of 0.06943 cubic inches. The volume of an Olympic-sized swimming pool is 152,064,000 cubic inches.
What can I do with an inground pool that is old?
The sunken patio is one of 6 genius new uses for an old swimming pool. The practical deck. The practical deck.
How much does it cost to winterize a pool?
According to Benjamin Basch, chief development officer for American Pool Enterprises in Owings Mills, MD, the cost of winterizing a residential pool can range from $250 to just under $1,000.
Why is it important to winterize a pool?
But even in areas where winter means more rain and wind, proper winterization of your pool is important. To help protect your pool from harsh conditions so you can jump right into the summer fun next year, ...
Why does my pool pop out of the ground?
A swimming pool with little or no water can become unstable due to hydrostatic pressure from underground water. “If heavy rain comes in, the pool can pop out of the ground a foot or two,” Meece says.
What to do after cleaning pool?
After you’ve cleaned the pool, consider adding chemicals to help prevent an algae bloom. Since algae eat phosphate, experts suggest adding a phosphate remover treatment and a stain prevention product too.
What is the best cover for a pool?
One reliable option is a winter pool cover, which is made from a plastic fabric and is held in place by anchors surrounding the pool. These covers do a great job at keeping out dirt, leaves, and other debris. You can also use a tarp cover that’s held down by water bags surrounding the pool, but it could be a drowning hazard.
How long can you run a pool pump?
If the temperatures unexpectedly plunge to 32 degrees or below before you close, you can run the pool pump for a full 24 hours. As long as the water is moving through the pipes, it won’t freeze.
Do pools need to be winterized?
It all depends on where you live. Homes in sunny Southern California or Arizona probably won’t have to close at all. But if you live where it gets frigid, your pool will need to be winterized before temperatures dip to 32 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent water from freezing.
How much does it cost to winterize a pool?
Most homeowners will spend between $125 and $375 to have their pool winterized by a professional. The national average reported cost is $232. The minimum cost a homeowner paid was $50 while the maximum reported cost was $700.
Why is it important to winterize a pool?
But winterizing your pool is an extremely important step, particularly in harsh climates, to keep it in good condition and prolong the lifespan. Failing to winterize a pool can lead to burst pipes, a damaged or failed filtration system, cracked tiles or walls and more.
What to do when closing a pool?
The process involves dozens of steps, including preparing the water and adjusting the chemicals, cleaning and storing all equipment, draining some (but not all) of the pool water, draining all pipes and equipment, shutting off the filter and covering the pool. According to pool industy expert Swimming Pool Steve, you should have these items on hand when closing your pool.
Do you need antifreeze for a pool?
If you live in an extremely cold climate, you’ll need to add swimming pool antifreeze, which is not the same as car antifreeze.
Can you replace a step by step guide for a pool?
However, this should not replace your step-by-step manufacturer’s guide or, in the case of a custom-built pool, professional instruction .
Can closing a pool affect the price?
Your location and the pool’s condition also impact price. Closing a pool can also be a DIY project - if you know what you’re doing. That’s a big IF because skipping even one important step can lead to major damage. If you decide to tackle the project, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s step-by-step instructions.
How to winterize a pool?
The cost to close and winterize your pool includes the following services: 1 Shocking the water 2 Lowering the water level 3 Cleaning the pool 4 Backwashing the filter 5 Closing and storing away filter components 6 Cleaning out the water lines 7 Attached the cover
How much does it cost to install a pool?
While you may already be aware of the high upfront cost of installing a pool (between $28,000 and $55,000 for an inground pool), new pool owners often forget to consider long-term costs related to pool maintenance. If not appropriately maintained, your swimming pool can become a breeding ground for bacteria. Pools see a variety of contaminants on a daily basis, such as dirt, cosmetics, lotions, urine, and more. If not attended to, these contaminants will result in a toxic, hazardous place to swim.
How much does it cost to maintain a saltwater pool?
With that said, maintenance costs for saltwater pools range from $25 to $40 an hour.
How much does an in ground pool increase the value of a home?
Maintaining an in-ground pool is essentially the same process as maintaining an above-ground pool, though in-ground pools can increase your home’s value by up to 7%.
What happens if you don't maintain a swimming pool?
If not appropriately maintained, your swimming pool can become a breeding ground for bacteria. Pools see a variety of contaminants on a daily basis, such as dirt, cosmetics, lotions, urine, and more. If not attended to, these contaminants will result in a toxic, hazardous place to swim.
How much does it cost to repair a vinyl pool liner?
The thinner the liner, the more susceptible it will be to rips and tears. Regular vinyl pool maintenance ranges from $475 to $800 a year, while the cost to repair a small tear or hole in a vinyl liner will run you between $350 and $550.
Does a concrete pool have algae?
In fact, the majority of the cost to maintain a concrete pool comes from the chemicals required to control the growth of algae.
How hot does a gas heater get in a pool?
A gas heater quickly warms a pool to 90 degrees or higher . This is idea for a pool that is used once or twice a day, or only when guests come over.
Is it bad to have a pool cover?
– Can be unsafe for children to operate. Whichever heating option you choose, you should have a pool cover. A cover will keep out falling debris and will let people know if the pool is available for use or not.
How much does it cost to close a pool in the winter?
The cost of closing a pool for the winter can range from $365 to $650 for pools up to 20’ x 40’ with vacuuming at about $85 per hour, winter filter cleaning at $25 each, and cleaning solid pool covers at $125 adding to the cost.
How much does it cost to maintain a pool?
The average cost to maintain a pool is $80 to $150 monthly or about $960 to $1,800 yearly. For a first-time pool cleaning service, expect to spend $150 to $350 on average. The annual cost to own a pool is $3,000 to $5,000, which includes maintenance, repairs, electricity, and water.
What kind of filter do pool owners use?
Pools usually use one of three types of filters: cartridge, sand, or diatomaceous earth (DE). One issue causing filter problems can be that pool owners replace their pool pump with a larger model that doesn’t match the current filter in place. This can push water through the filter too quickly for it to filter the water properly. On the opposite end, pool owners can buy a replacement filter that’s too small for the pump. A new inground pool filter costs $385–$1,600.
What is the basic maintenance of a fiberglass pool?
Basic maintenance includes testing water chemistry, checking filters, settings, and equipment. While a fiberglass pool needs little maintenance, the chemicals required to keep water pH levels right in a concrete pool can be triple those costs.
How much does a chlorine generator cost?
Salt water chlorine generators can cost about $330. They use cells, costing $200 for a simple one up to $1,400 for a high-tech cell that sends you readouts of your water’s salt levels, cleanliness, temp, and flow, saving you testing time. Generator cells chemically change salt into chlorine with an electric charge.
What is the best way to clean a pool?
Clean the walls and floor of the pool with a handheld or automatic pool vacuum. The ones that require the least manual labor are automatic vacuums that crawl every inch of the pool.
Why is it important to maintain a pool?
Swimming pool maintenance is vital if you want your pool to stay usable and last as long as possible before its resurface, or replacement comes due . Naturally, it’s easier to hire a pool maintenance company to handle these tasks for you.
How to winterize pool water?
For winterizing, it’s generally better to be on the high end of each chemical range. The chemicals will wear out eventually, but if they’re relatively high to start with, they’ll last longer.
How long does a winterizing kit last in a pool?
Many pool stores sell winterizing chemical kits that should last for the entire season. Use one of these in your pool and follow the manufacturer’s directions exactly.
How does freezing affect pool chemistry?
Cold and freezing temperatures can affect your pool chemistry. While the temperatures usually inhibit the growth of algae and bacteria, improperly winterizing your pool could throw the chemical balance off and lead to structural damage.
Why is winterizing a pool important?
Winterizing a pool is essential for avoiding a variety of problems. Here are the most common threats winter poses:
What to put in pool while it's open?
Accessories include toys, pool ladders, and anything else you might leave in or around your pool while it’s open. Thoroughly clean them, then store them in a dry area away from sunlight.
What is an air pillow in a pool?
Sometimes known as ice compensators, pool air pillows help to balance out the weight of any ice and snow that fall on top of your cover. The pad should be placed around the middle of the pool and ideally kept there somehow.
Can you winterize a pool when it gets too cold?
Unfortunately, cold snaps can be unpredictable, and homeowners like you don’t always have the opportunity to winterize things properly before it gets too cold outside. In these cases, the best option is to keep your pump running and winterize your pool as soon as possible.
Q: What does it mean to close a pool?
A: Closing your pool at the end of the swimming season can mean a couple of things, depending on where you live. Many pool owners living in climates that don’t experience freezing temperatures opt to close their pool by stopping or severely limiting its maintenance for a time when it’s too cool to swim.
Q: When should you winterize your inground pool?
A: No matter what type of pool you have, it’s best to keep it open as late in the year as possible to avoid algae and microbial growth before the first snowfall. The ideal time to winterize your pool is when the air temperature stays below 65 degrees, but nighttime temperatures are still above freezing.
Q: Do you have to close your pool?
A: Properly closing your pool is crucial if you live in an area that experiences temperatures below freezing during the winter. Even pool owners in warmer climates that only sometimes see freezing temps should consider the risk of not closing their pool in winter.
Q: What are the steps to winterize an inground pool?
A: Winterizing a pool aims to keep algae and microbial growth to a minimum, protect the pool and equipment from damage and keep debris from causing trouble. Here are the steps to make that happen.
Q: How much does it cost to close a pool for winter?
A: Other than the cost of pool shock and balancing chemicals, it doesn’t cost anything but time to close your pool. Professionals charge between $150 and $400, depending on the size and scope of the project.
Q: Why not just drain the pool for winter?
A: It’s especially critical that most of the water remains in an inground pool over winter. Draining the water past the skimmer depth can allow vinyl liners to sag or experience damage. External pressure from the ground surrounding the pool can cause concrete or fiberglass to crack and even fail without sufficient water acting as a counterbalance.
