To ensure a seamless spring opening, proper preparation is crucial when closing your pool. Please follow these steps to prepare your pool for our service appointment:
Test Your Pool Water
Pre-Closing Water Test: Bring a water sample to Premier Pools for a complimentary test. This test helps determine the appropriate closing chemicals and should be done 1-7 days before closing to allow time for chemical circulation. Based on the results, we will recommend a closing kit with either chlorine or non-chlorine shock. If you have already obtained your closing chemicals, a water test is not necessary.
Clean the Pool
Brush and Vacuum: Thoroughly brush the pool surfaces and vacuum to remove all visible debris. This ensures that the closing chemicals will be more effective.
Prepare the Cover
Auto Covers: For auto covers, do not drain any water from the pool. Ensure the cover is free of water and debris before our service team arrives. Excess water on the cover may result in rescheduling your pool closing to the same weekday of the following week. It is recommended to use your cover pump throughout the winter and to plug it in whenever ice or snow thaws. If the cover switch is locked, please provide the cover code or leave the key in the control box.
Mesh Covers: For mesh covers with anchors or tarp covers with water bags, drain the water below the returns by closing the skimmer valves and either opening the waste line or setting the multiport valve to waste, unless you have arranged for us to drain the water. Leave the cover off until the closing process is complete. If the cover needs to be installed, ensure it is accessible. Note that labor charges may apply if technicians need to remove part or all of the cover during the closing.
Add Closing Chemicals
Bioguard Pool Closing Complete™: Provides anti-corrosion and anti-scale protection, facilitates a smoother spring opening, and is compatible with all pool types.
For Chlorine Kits:
-
Bioguard Arctic Blue Winter Kit:
- 1 Quart Arctic Blue Algae Protector: Prevents algae growth and enhances clarity.
- 4 lb. Arctic Blue Winter Shock: Offers stabilized chlorine protection and clarifies water.
For Non-Chlorine Kits:
-
Bioguard Non-Chlorine Winter Kit:
- 1 Quart Arctic Blue Algae Protector: Prevents algae growth and improves clarity.
- 4 lb. Bioguard Oxysheen: Fast-dissolving non-chlorine shock that clarifies and protects.
Application Instructions:
- For Chlorine Kits: With the pool circulating, apply the entire dosage of Arctic Blue Shock across the deep end. Brush in any shock that does not dissolve immediately. After at least two hours, add the Arctic Blue Algae Protector and Pool Closing Complete around the pool’s edges.
- For Non-Chlorine Kits: With the pool circulating, apply all four bags of Bioguard Oxysheen non-chlorine shock across the deep end. Brush in any shock that does not dissolve immediately. After at least two hours, add the Arctic Blue Algae Protector and Pool Closing Complete around the pool’s edges.
Prepare Pool Supplies
Locate Supplies: Ensure that all pool supplies, such as plugs and gizmos, are near the pool or equipment for easy access. If these items are missing or damaged, they will be replaced at your expense.
During Your Service Appointment
Replacement of Closing Items: If any closing items such as rubber winter plugs, white closing plugs, winterizing tubes, or skimmer faceplates need replacement, these will be added to your order and invoiced after the closing service.
Main Drain Valve Preparation: The main drain valve must be in excellent condition and airtight. Once confirmed by our technician, the handle will be removed and placed in the pump basket to prevent accidental opening over the winter. To winterize the main drain, water will be blown out of the pipe using air, and the main drain valve at the equipment will be closed to ensure no air escapes. The valve will be tested for leaks; any hissing sound indicates leakage. If the valve cannot be repaired, it will be cut out and the line plugged after blowing out the water. Failure to properly seal the valve may result in severe damage due to freezing water, requiring significant repairs. If necessary, we will contact you to schedule a replacement in the spring before the pool opening.
Following these steps will help ensure that your pool is well-prepared for the off-season and will facilitate a smooth spring opening.
