6 Steps to Winterize Your Pool

Expert Pool Closing Tips from Your Trusted Toronto Pool Closing Company

As cooler temperatures approach and the last swim of the season wraps up, now is the perfect time to get your pool ready for winter. At Bremner Pool & Spa, we’ve helped countless Toronto and Durham homeowners protect their pools from harsh Canadian winters with expert pool closing services.

Here’s our step-by-step guide to properly winterize your pool and ensure a stress-free spring reopening.

Step 1: Give Your Pool a Deep Clean

Before beginning the winterization process, it’s important to remove all dirt and debris. Use a skim net to clean the surface, vacuum the bottom thoroughly, and brush the pool walls to ensure everything is as spotless as possible. A clean pool prevents organic buildup and reduces the chances of staining or algae over the winter.

Step 2: Lower the Water Level Safely

Draining your pool to the proper level is key to avoiding freeze damage.

• For standard inground pools, lower the water to about 18 inches from the top, or 1” beneath the return jets for an average pool.
• Fibreglass pool owners should drop the water to just below the skimmer opening. While draining, backwash your filter so it’s clean and ready for spring startup.

Step 3: Winterize the Plumbing and Equipment

This is one of the most important steps in any pool closing to avoid any frost damage. Use a high-powered blower to remove water from all plumbing lines and equipment. Once the lines are cleared, plug off the skimmer and returns using winter plugs and gizmos to keep the water out. Allow the blower to run for at least 10 minutes to ensure all water is expelled.

Don’t forget to:

• Remove all drain plugs from your pump, filter, heater, and chlorinator, as well as removing the pressure gauge off the filter
• Discard any chemicals from inside the chlorinator.  Any wet chemicals should be thrown out
• Disconnect off-line chlorinators or turn them upside down
• Leave valves in an open position, unplug salt systems, disable pump timers, and turn off breakers to avoid accidental winter activation

Step 4: Add Your Winter Pool Chemicals

To keep your water clean and chemically balanced during the off-season, add a winterizing chemical kit. These typically include an algaecide and a stain/scale inhibitor.

Always double-check your pool chemistry before closing. Balance:

• Chlorine
• pH
• Total Alkalinity
• Calcium Hardness

Avoid adding excess chlorine—it can cause liner damage over time.

Step 5: Cover Your Pool Properly

A durable winter pool cover is essential for keeping out leaves, debris, and sunlight. We recommend investing in a custom-fitted safety cover, which provides a secure, sleek look and protects your pool and loved ones throughout the season. It’s a worthwhile investment for both appearance and safety.

View our Safety Cover Gallery

Step 6: Monitor Your Pool Over Winter

Just because your pool is closed doesn’t mean it can be forgotten. Periodically check on your cover:

• Remove heavy debris or snow build-up
• Use a cover pump if water collects on top
• Watch the water level under the cover to ensure it stays within safe limits
• Inspect for wear and tear or gaps in the cover

Need Help Closing Your Pool?

If this sounds like a lot—don’t worry. Bremner Pool & Spa offers professional pool closing services in Toronto, Durham, and the GTA. We’ll handle every detail to ensure your pool is protected and winter-ready.

Contact Us to reserve your spot today.

Top 5 Pool Closing Questions Toronto Homeowners Ask Every Year

1. When should I close my pool in Toronto?

Ideally, close your pool before overnight temperatures drop consistently below 10°C—typically late September through mid-October in Toronto.

2. Can I use a regular tarp instead of a safety pool cover?

Yes, you can.  We do sell premium quality waterbag (tarp) covers that you can use over the winter.  However, a tarp won’t offer the same protection, durability, or safety. Safety covers are custom-fitted, more secure, safer, and will significantly enhance the appearance of your backyard over the fall and winter months.

3. How do I know if my pool is leaking before closing it?

Signs include unusually low water levels, soggy ground around the pool, or air in the system. Professional leak detection is recommended before winter.

4. What chemicals are needed to winterize a pool?

Winter kits usually include algaecide, stain & scale inhibitors, and chlorine shock. Always balance pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness before closing.

5. How much does it cost to close a pool in Toronto?

Costs vary depending on your pool type and the services required.

Click here to view our Pool Closing Price List for detailed pricing and options.