Swimming Pool Closing & Winterization

Before Your Scheduled Closing

A few things need to be done before our technicians arrive so the closing goes smoothly:

• The pool should be clear and the water balanced. Brush the walls, vacuum, empty the skimmers, and test and balance the water.
• Turn off the pool heater at least 24 hours before your scheduled closing.
• Backwash the filter.
• If you have a mesh or water-bag cover, lower the water level to below the returns.
• Leave the pump running unless it has to be turned off due to water level below returns for mesh or tarp covers (Should be able to run pump still with skimmers closed in most cases)
• Pump off any automatic cover and leave the auto cover key out for our technicians.
• Do not close your auto cover if you lowered your water for a mesh or tarp cover closing.
• Have all winter parts and covers available at the pool.
• Complete any needed repairs before the closing.
• Make sure we have full access to the pool, the cover and the winterization plugs for the skimmer and returns.

What's Included in a Standard Pool Closing

• Winterize the filter
• Winterize the pump
• Winterize the heater
• Remove skimmer baskets and return eyeballs
• Blow out all plumbing lines, add antifreeze and install winter plugs (we double-plug the returns)
• 3 gallons of antifreeze
• Clean up trash and tools used during the closing

All plugs, return eyeballs and other removed parts are stored in the pump basket and the blue backpack bag we provide, so they're easy to find at spring opening.

Not Included (Available for an Additional Charge)

• Adding winterizing chemicals (We recommend bringing in a water test 1-7 days before closing to get closing chemicals to add before closing to allow them to circulate)
• Lowering the water level
• Winterizing plugs, gizmos or other parts needed but not on site
• Spa closing
• Turning off electricity and removing trippers from timers
• Installing the winter cover
• Chemically cleaning filters

If a cover is already on the pool when we arrive, there is a charge to remove it and another to put it back on — our technicians need full access to the entire pool. If you'd like any of the services above, ask for pricing when you schedule your closing.

Prepay and Save

We recommend prepaying and scheduling your closing during our prepaid open/close special in January and February. Prepaid customers get first pick of dates, and our closing schedule is usually about 90% booked before February ends. See the current open/close special.

Service Area

Pool closings are available throughout our pool service area, which covers the Twin Cities metro with the strongest coverage in the western and southern suburbs. Enter your ZIP code above to confirm coverage, or see the full city and ZIP code list on our Services page. Premier Pool & Spa is a locally owned company in Chanhassen, MN, and is not affiliated with any national "Premier" brand.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I close my pool in Minnesota?

Most of our closings run from mid-September through October, once water temperatures stay below about 60°F. Closing too early while the water is warm can lead to algae growth under the cover.

Do you install the winter cover?

Cover installation is not part of the standard closing but can be added for an additional charge. Ask when scheduling.

What if I'm missing winter plugs or parts?

Our technicians carry common plugs and fittings. On a standard closing, any parts needed that aren't on site are charged to you; the prepaid special handles this differently, so check the special's terms.

Do you close hot tubs?

Yes, spa closing is available as an add-on service. Ask for pricing when you schedule.

How do I schedule a pool closing?

Use the Request Service Online button above, or text or call the store. Prepaying in January or February gives you the best choice of dates.