Let’s be honest: closing your pool isn’t the most exciting part of pool ownership. After a great summer of swimming and backyard fun, it can be tough to say goodbye. And if the weather’s still warm in September, it’s tempting to push off closing just a little longer.
But here’s the truth—September is actually the best time to close your pool, and skipping it (or waiting too long) can lead to major issues you definitely don’t want to deal with next spring.
Let’s break it down.
1. Less Chance of a Green, Messy Pool in Spring
You might think the cooler air means your pool water is fine to sit for a while—but algae loves when the days are warm and nights are cool. It creates the perfect condition for green, cloudy water.
By closing your pool in September—when water temps drop below 65°F—you’re cutting off algae before it has a chance to grow. Plus, keeping the water clean and balanced is way easier when it’s not constantly battling temperature swings, leaves, and other fall debris.
2. Avoid Damage From Cold Snaps
If you’ve ever had a pipe crack or a pump freeze up, you already know how expensive that can be. Cold nights in late September and October can hit fast, and your equipment isn’t built to handle freezing temps without proper winterizing.
Closing your pool before things get too cold protects your pump, heater, filter, and plumbing lines. It’s one of those “do it now, thank yourself later” situations.
3. Less Time Cleaning Leaves, More Time Enjoying Fall
As soon as the leaves start falling, your pool turns into a magnet for them. They clog up your skimmer, stain your liner, and make your water dirty fast. Sure, you can keep scooping them out every day—but wouldn’t it be easier to just close your pool before the real mess begins?
Covering it early keeps the water clear and clean. No daily clean-ups. No sludge to deal with next spring.
4. A Smooth Opening Next Year
The better your pool is closed, the easier it is to open when warm weather rolls back around. Pools closed too late often open up to green water, smelly surprises, and tons of cleaning. But if you close your pool in September while it’s still in good shape, it’s usually just a matter of peeling back the cover and jumping in when the time comes.
Less work. Less cost. Less stress.
5. It’s Easier to Book Service (And Might Cost Less)
Another reason not to wait? Everyone and their neighbor rushes to book pool closings in October. September gives you better availability, more time to ask questions, and sometimes even early bird discounts. Plus, you won’t be stuck trying to schedule a last-minute service when temps are dropping and everyone’s calendars are packed.
6. Don’t Let the Weather Surprise You
We all know how unpredictable fall can be. One day it’s 75 and sunny, the next it’s a chilly 40 degrees overnight. Waiting for the “perfect weekend” to close your pool can leave you scrambling when the weather turns. Getting it done in September means you’re ahead of the game—no rushing, no stress.
Ready to Close It Up? We’ve Got You.
If you’d rather not deal with the hassle of balancing chemicals, draining lines, or wrestling with the cover, we totally get it.
That’s where we come in. At Westrock Pools, our professional pool closing services takes care of everything for you. We’ll winterize your equipment, balance your water, install your cover, and make sure your pool is fully protected—so you can enjoy the rest of the season without worrying.