As the temperatures begin to drop and snow looms on the horizon, your swimming pool might be the last thing on your mind. But if you haven't winterized it yet, you may want to start thinking about it. Delaying this crucial task—or skipping it altogether—can result in costly damage that no homeowner wants to face come spring.
Minnesota winters are notoriously harsh, and your pool is not immune to the freeze-thaw cycle. Avoid expensive repairs and start next season with confidence by ensuring your pool is properly closed for the season.
Here's what can go wrong when your pool isn't winterized correctly.
Why Proper Pool Winterization Matters
Minnesota’s freeze-thaw cycles are tough on swimming pools. Water left where it shouldn’t be can expand, crack surfaces, and damage equipment long before you ever see the problem.
A correctly closed pool helps you:
- Avoid surprise repair bills in spring
- Extend the life of your liner and equipment
- Start next swim season with clean, balanced water
What Happens If You Don't Close Your Pool Properly?
1. Pool Liner Cracks and Tears
- Minor pre-existing cracks may become serious structural issues.
- Repair may not be an option—liner replacement can cost thousands.
- Early damage is often invisible until it's too late.
Tip: If your pool liner is aging, now is a great time to inspect it or consult a pro about replacement options.
2. Algae Invasion
Unbalanced pool chemistry left unchecked all winter is a recipe for heavy algae growth in the spring. If you've ever missed summer maintenance, you already know how quickly algae takes over.
- Algae blooms can turn your pool green and murky.
- Severe growth may require complete draining and acid washing.
- Pool wall stains can become permanent if not addressed.
Prevention: Balance your water and add winterizing chemicals before freezing temperatures hit.
3. Burst or Leaking Plumbing
Frozen water in your pipes doesn't just stop flow—it expands, cracks, and bursts plumbing lines.
- Subsurface plumbing is especially vulnerable.
- Melting ice in damaged pipes = serious leaks in spring.
- Leaks can cause high water bills and even ground shifting around your pool.
Remember: Blowing out your lines is critical to prevent freezing inside your system.
4. Costly Equipment Failure
Your filter, pump, heater, and skimmer aren't built to withstand internal freezing.
- Water left inside can destroy seals, break components, and crack housings.
- Replacing equipment post-winter isn't cheap, as parts can be costly.
- Prolonged freezing only increases the risk of failure.
Pro tip: Store removable parts indoors and ensure all equipment is drained before winter.
5. Damage to Your Pool Deck
When underground pipes rupture, water may seep beneath your deck, leading to hidden structural damage.
- Above-ground pipes are easier to fix; buried ones are a different story.
- Cracked underground plumbing may require breaking through concrete or stone decking.
- These repairs are labor-intensive and expensive.
Avoid this: Protecting your deck starts with protecting the pipes beneath it.
When Should You Close Your Pool?
Timing is everything. The ideal window for closing your pool depends on a few key factors:
- Using a heater? You may keep your pool open as long as the water stays above 65°F.
- No heater? Once nighttime temps drop consistently, it's time to close up shop.
What a Smart Winterization Process Includes
Routine Maintenance Comes First
A clean, balanced pool closes better and opens easier.
- Skimming, brushing, and vacuuming
- Testing and adjusting pH, chlorine, and alkalinity
- Cleaning filters and checking saturation levels
Equipment Checks and Repairs
Cold weather magnifies existing problems.
- Pumps, heaters, and filters inspected
- Motors and chemical feeders checked
- Underwater lighting reviewed
Addressing small issues now helps avoid big repairs later.
The Right Pool Cover
A quality cover shields your pool from snow, ice, wind, and debris.
- Automatic covers provide secure, full-pool protection
- Mesh covers must be inspected for wear or damage
- A damaged cover may need repair or replacement before winter
Lowering the Water Level
Draining a few inches helps prevent pressure damage from freezing.
- Water should sit below skimmers and return jets
- Reduces stress on walls, plumbing, and fittings
This simple step plays a major role in winter protection.
Protect Your Pool Before It's Too Late
Don't wait for freezing temps to strike. Let our team help you shut things down safely and efficiently.
📞 Call us today at 651-779-7606
📩 Send us a message and we'll be in touch!
Your pool is an investment. Protect it like one, with expert care from Royal Pool & Spa.