Pool Closing Cost Guide - Pricing, Savings Tips & Winterization Process
Last Updated: October 02, 2023
Reviewed By: Ryan Maguire
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It's the end of the year. Summer has come and gone. It always seems to go by too fast. Now, it's time to close up the pool and spend some cold winter days inside dreaming of the next time you can lie near it, sipping an ice cold lemonade, ice tea, or margarita. Well, here is some information you will need regarding costs and supplies you will need to get it done.
How Much Does it Cost to Close or Winterize a Swimming Pool? #
Closing an above-ground pool typically costs:
Draining - $100 to $200
Surface Cleaning - $150 to $250
Closing Filtration - $100 to $150
Installing Cover - $200 to $400
Additional Services - $100 to $300
Total Cost - $500 to $800 on average
Closing an in-ground pool typically costs:
Draining - $100 to $200
Surface Cleaning - $150 to $250
Closing Filtration - $100 to $150
Installing Cover - $200 to $400
Additional Services - $100 to $300
Total Cost - $800 to $1,200 on average
Pool Closing Cost Calculator #
Pool Closing Cost Examples #
I asked several homeowners and businesses how much they paid to have their pool closed/winterized and complied their answers below:
A homeowner in New York paid $750 to have their small 12x24 above-ground pool closed. This included draining, cleaning, disconnecting the pump, storing the ladder/railing, and installing a solid winter cover.
A resident in Illinois was charged $1,050 for closing their 18x36 in-ground gunite pool and hot tub. Services included surface cleaning, pump/filter winterizing, hot tub draining, solid cover installation, and securing the safety fence.
A family in Texas paid their local pool company $1,800 to close their 20x40 fiberglass in-ground pool with attached spa. This covered full draining, tile brushing, equipment winterizing, a mesh safety cover, and chemicals.
A homeowner in Oregon paid $2,100 for closing their large custom 30x60 aggregate pool and surrounding deck jets. Services included complete surface cleaning, pump winterizing, safety cover installation, plumbing blow out, and storing all removable accessories.
A resident in New Jersey was charged $1,275 by a pool company to close their 15x30 vinyl liner in-ground pool. The cost included draining and cleaning the pool, pump/filter winterizing, plus installing a solid winter cover and water tubes to hold it in place.
A homeowner in Arizona paid $1,450 for their pool service company to close their 15x30 in-ground pebbletec pool. Services included draining, cleaning, pump winterizing, installing a mesh safety cover, and blowing out plumbing lines.
A person in Michigan was charged $1,030 to have their 15x25 vinyl liner above-ground pool professionally closed for winter. This included draining, surface cleaning, pump/filter winterizing, and installing a solid vinyl cover.
A condo association in Florida paid a local pool company $4,200 to close all 3 of their community in-ground pools, ranging from 20x40 to 25x60 in size. The cost covered full draining, surface/tile brushing, filter cleaning, pump winterizing, and securing solid covers.
A hotel owner in Colorado paid $6,500 to have the indoor pool, outdoor pool, and hot tub fully closed at their 200 room facility. This covered draining, extensive surface cleaning, full pump/equipment winterizing, and installation of an indoor pool safety cover.
A municipality in Maine was charged $8,500 by a professional pool company to properly close their large outdoor public pool for the season. Services included draining, thorough surface and tile cleaning, recirculator winterizing, water line blowing, chemicals, and installing anchored winter covers.
The examples illustrate typical pool closing costs ranging from $1000 to several thousand dollars depending on the pool size, complexity, location, and exactly which services are required.
Swimming Pool Winterization Process #
Drain the Pool - The water level is lowered to below the skimmer and return jets using pumps and vacuums. The ideal level is dependent on the pool type and climate conditions.
Clean the Surfaces - Thorough brushing and vacuuming removes debris from all pool surfaces including the walls, floor, tiles, coping, and deck. Chemical treatments can also be applied.
Clean/Close Filtration - Pump baskets are cleared out, filters are cleaned or replaced, pumps are lubricated and then winterized by adding RV antifreeze to prevent freezing.
Install Winter Cover - An appropriate cover is professionally installed, secured, and tightly sealed to protect the pool. The type depends on the pool and climate.
Winterize Equipment - Additional equipment like pool heaters, chlorinators, and cleaners are properly shut down and protected.
Blow Out Plumbing - Compressed air is forced through the plumbing lines to evacuate all water from the pipes.
Balance Chemicals - Chemical levels are adjusted and stabilized for the winter months.
Secure Accessories - Ladders, rails, cleaning tools, furniture, etc are stored safely away from the elements.
Shock Treatment - Some pros recommend a final shock treatment after closing to further stabilize the water chemistry.
Check Periodically - Check the cover, water level, and chemistry throughout the winter to ensure proper protection.
Following this detailed winterization process prevents freeze damage, contamination, and safely secures the pool during the off-season. Opening again in spring involves reversing these steps.
Questions to Ask About Pool Closing Costs #
What exactly is included in your standard closing service package?
Do you offer itemized pricing for each specific service (draining, cleaning, cover install, etc)?
How much does closing an above-ground pool cost versus an in-ground pool?
Do you offer discounts for larger pool sizes or multi-pool properties?
Is there an additional charge for closing water features like waterfalls or fountains?
What type of pool cover do you use and what is the cost? Can I provide my own?
Do you blow out all plumbing lines or just certain ones? Is this an extra fee?
Do you take care of closing pool heaters, cleaners, chlorinators, etc? Is there an extra charge?
Is chemical balancing and water testing included or extra?
Do you charge by the hour or have set package rates? Is there a minimum fee?
Do you have a lower cost option for basic closing services?
Can I get a discounted rate if I don't need opening services in spring?
Are there any first-time customer discounts you offer?
When is your last day for closing service this season? Do you charge extra after a certain date?
Asking detailed questions upfront helps you understand exactly what is covered in their pricing and potential ways to reduce costs, as well as their level of service and professionalism.
How to Save on Pool Closing Costs #
Do it yourself - DIY closing can cut costs in half or more compared to hiring a pro. Requires some expertise though.
Closing only, not opening - Separating closing and spring opening services can sometimes save a bundle.
Provide your own cover - Buying the winter cover yourself then having the pro install it can shave $100-$300 off costs.
Skip extra chemicals or draining - Not all pros recommend adding extra chemicals or fully draining for closing.
Negotiate service discounts - Offer to pay in cash, inquire about first-time customer discounts, etc. to try to negotiate a deal.
Have them quote closing and minor repairs - Some repairs like patching concrete can be done more affordably when the pool is already emptied and prepped.
Compare multiple quotes - Prices can vary dramatically company to company, so get 3-5 quotes.
Ask about DIY kit assistance - Some companies offer discounted DIY closing kits with phone support.
Exchange services for discount - Offer your own professional skills like painting in exchange for discounted closing costs.
Close late or open early - Extending your pool season a bit with Mother Nature's help trims winterized periods requiring closing/opening costs.
With some diligent cost-saving strategies, you can reduce your pool closing expenditures significantly. Just be sure no corners are cut that could risk damage.