Pool Closing Kit: What’s Inside? (Don’t Close Without This!)

Understanding a Pool Closing Kit: Ensuring a Worry-Free Winter

Closing your pool properly for the winter is crucial to protect your investment and ensure an easy reopening in the spring. A pool closing kit is designed to simplify this process, but what is included in a pool closing kit? Let’s break down the typical contents and their purpose.

Core Components of a Standard Pool Closing Kit

Most pool closing kits contain a combination of chemicals and accessories designed to prevent algae growth, protect your pool equipment, and maintain water balance over the winter months.

Chemicals for Water Treatment

• Winter Algaecide: This is a crucial element. It prevents algae growth while the pool is stagnant and covered. Choose a quality algaecide formulated for cold water conditions.

  • Why it’s important: Prevents a green swamp when you remove the cover in spring.
  • Dosage: Follow the instructions on the bottle carefully. Overdosing can also create issues.

• Winter Shock: This strong oxidizer helps kill any remaining bacteria and organic contaminants in the water before covering.

  • Types of Winter Shock: Typically, you will find chlorine-based (Calcium Hypochlorite) or non-chlorine based (Potassium Monopersulfate). Choose based on your pool type and preference.
  • Application: Shock the pool after balancing the water chemistry.

• Scale Inhibitor or Metal Sequestering Agent: This chemical helps prevent staining and scaling by binding to minerals like calcium and iron in the water.

  • Hard Water Pools: Especially important if you have hard water, as scaling can damage your pool surfaces and equipment.
  • Well Water Users: Users who fill their pools using well water should always use a metal sequestering agent.

Accessories for Protection

While not always included in basic kits, you might find that some kits bundle in helpful physical items to assist with proper closing:

• Pool Cover Clips/Water Bags: These secure your pool cover to prevent wind damage and debris from entering.

  • Water Bag Usage: Should be filled about 3/4 full to allow for expansion and contraction during freezing weather.
  • Proper Placement: Position evenly around the pool’s perimeter for secure coverage.

• Skimmer Plug/Ice Compensator: These protect your skimmer from freezing and cracking if water gets inside. An ice compensator can also prevent damage to the pool walls.

  • Skimmer Plug Types: Rubber expansion plugs are common and easily installed.
  • Ice Compensators: Typically a large, sealed plastic bottle that sits in the pool and absorbs the pressure of expanding ice.

Variations in Pool Closing Kit Contents

The exact composition of a pool closing kit can vary depending on several factors:

• Pool Size: Kits are typically formulated for specific pool volumes (e.g., up to 15,000 gallons, 25,000 gallons, etc.). Choose a kit appropriate for your pool’s size to ensure the correct chemical dosage.

• Pool Type (Above-Ground vs. In-Ground): Some kits are specifically designed for above-ground or in-ground pools, taking into account the different construction and potential problems.

• Brand and Price: Different brands offer varying combinations of chemicals and accessories in their kits. A more expensive kit may include additional items or higher-quality chemicals.

• Specific Needs: You may need to supplement your pool closing kit with additional chemicals or accessories depending on your pool’s specific needs, such as a higher level of algae prevention or extra protection against hard water.

Supplementing Your Pool Closing Kit: Additional Considerations

While a closing kit provides a solid foundation, consider these additions for complete winterization:

1. Water Testing Kit: Test your pool water before adding any chemicals. Adjust the pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness to the recommended levels before adding the chemicals from the closing kit. Record your readings.
2. Pool Cover Pump: Excess water from rain or snow can damage your pool cover. A cover pump removes standing water.
3. Pipe Plugs: Used to seal off pipes after draining them to prevent freezing.
4. Filter Cleaner: Thoroughly cleaning your filter before winterizing is crucial for extending its lifespan. Use a specialized filter cleaner.
5. Empty and Clean Equipment: Completely drain pumps, filters, heaters, and chlorinators. Clean them thoroughly and store them indoors if possible.
6. Lubricate O-Rings: Apply a silicone-based lubricant to all O-rings on your equipment to prevent them from drying out and cracking during the winter.

By understanding what is included in a pool closing kit and supplementing it appropriately, you can protect your pool from winter damage and ensure a smooth and easy reopening in the spring.

Alright, pool pros (and aspiring ones!), now you know the drill when it comes to what is included in a pool closing kit. Go forth and conquer that closing process! You’ve got this. See you poolside next season!