Pool opening and closing checklists

Step-by-step lists for the start and end of the season. Your equipment manual and local climate decide the details.

Updated October 4, 2026

Opening checklist

1. Clear water and debris off the cover before removing it. Clean and dry the cover before storing it.
2. Reinstall drain plugs, gauges, baskets, ladders and rails you removed at closing.
3. Remove winter plugs from returns and skimmers, and any freeze-protection items your system used.
4. Top up the water to the middle of the skimmer opening.
5. Check the equipment pad for cracks, rodent damage and loose unions before powering on.
6. Prime the pump per its manual, open the filter air-relief valve, start up and watch for leaks.
7. Record clean filter pressure as your baseline for the season.
8. Run the pump for a day, then test chlorine, pH, alkalinity, stabilizer (and salt, if you have a salt system).
9. Adjust one thing at a time and retest. If water is green, follow the green pool plan.

Closing checklist

1. Pick a date based on local temperatures; algae grows fast in warm water under a cover.
2. Brush, vacuum and clean the filter. Balance the water a few days before closing.
3. Lower the water only as far as your cover and pool instructions require. Never fully drain unless a professional says it is safe.
4. Turn off and lock out power. Relieve filter pressure.
5. Drain the pump, filter and heater as the manuals direct. Store removable parts dry.
6. Blow out lines and plug them, using only approved plugs and pool antifreeze where your climate needs it.
7. Secure the cover and keep people and pets off it. Check it through the winter.