It feels like pool season just started, but with kids going back to school and with fall looming in Northeast Ohio and Erie, PA, you may be starting to think about closing your pool for the season. If you are like us, you are probably not ready just yet to give up your days and evenings around the crystal clear water. When is the right time for closing your pool? Let’s review. You may have more time than you think.
Closing Your Pool Too Early Can be a Bad Thing
While Labor Day seems to be the unofficial end to summer and the pool season, that doesn’t actually mean it’s time to give up your swimming pool for the year. Closing your pool for the season should not be based on a holiday weekend, but should be guided by proper timing.
If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals added will typically not last until spring. When closing your pool earlier than the outdoor temperatures warrant, it can cause algae to grow and will leave you with an unpleasant surprise when it’s pool opening time.
When it comes to the right time for closing your pool, pools should not be closed until temperatures are consistently below 65 degrees, with the pool water regularly below 60 degrees, preventing algae and other microorganisms from developing. In Northeast Ohio and Erie, PA, our weather usually hits this tipping point in early to mid-October. Enjoy your pool as long as you can, because we know that after fall, winter comes, and we need to take in as much of the outdoors as possible, before we are stuck inside because of the snow.
Can it Hurt my Pool if I Close it Too Late in the Season?
The right time for closing your pool can vary year by year. Not closing your pool too early is important, but it is also crucial not to close it too late. If temperatures are starting to drop below freezing, fall foliage is filling up your filters, and no one is swimming because it is too chilly, you have waited a little too long for your pool closing.
When cooler weather sets in it can put your pool at risk. With less swimming and activity in the water, there is an increased chance of algae growth. Also, if you wait for temperatures to start dropping below freezing, you are at risk of damage to your pool and its components due to the water freezing and expanding. Not to mention, leaves and other fall debris can start to fill up your filters and cause issues.
As mentioned above, a good rule of thumb, is to close your pool when the water is consistently around 60 degrees.
Litehouse Pools & Spas Can Handle Your Pool Closing for You
When it’s the right time for closing your pool in Northeast Ohio or Erie, PA, Litehouse Pools & Spas can help. At Litehouse Pools & Spas we can handle your entire pool closing process. Our pool service technicians provide complete pool care including opening, closings, regular maintenance packages, and specialized cleaning services. We have highly skilled and certified staff available.
We offer different pool closing packages so you can find one that is right for you. Let us take care of your pool closing and pool opening.
Even though it is much too early to close your pool for the season right now, you can contact us today to schedule your pool closing for later in the season and check that off your fall preparation “to do” list.
