How Much Does It Cost to Close a Pool?
The expense associated with shutting down your swimming pool for the colder months varies quite a bit, depending on several important factors. Typically, homeowners across the United States can expect to spend anywhere from $150 to $450 to properly winterize their pools, with the average cost hovering around $250. If you opt to handle the closing process yourself instead of hiring a professional, you can significantly reduce costs since you eliminate labor charges. The key expenses for closing a pool include chemicals, necessary equipment, and possibly the assistance of a professional if you choose not to DIY.
Factors Influencing Pool Closing Expenses
Several variables influence the total cost of winterizing your pool. Let’s explore these factors in detail:
Above Ground vs. Inground Pools
Closing an above ground pool is generally more budget-friendly because these pools are smaller, contain less equipment, and are easier to prepare for winter. Expect to spend roughly $100 to $200 for an above ground pool closure. Smaller pools and DIY approaches can bring costs down even further. In contrast, inground pools are more complex and require additional chemicals and equipment, raising the cost to a minimum of around $200 and potentially up to $450.
Pool Size
The size of your pool directly impacts the overall expense. Larger pools contain more water, demanding a greater quantity of chemicals and more time to winterize properly. Additionally, larger pools often feature more complex setups such as water features, hot tubs, and additional equipment like heaters and filters, all of which need to be winterized, increasing costs accordingly.
Chemical Requirements
The chemical costs represent a significant part of the winterization process. Purchasing the appropriate chemicals can be the most substantial expense, especially if you opt for DIY or a comprehensive winterization kit. Typical chemicals and their associated costs include:
- Chlorine: $10 to $100
- Stabilizer (cyanuric acid): $15 to $30
- Algaecide: $10 to $70
- Bromine: $20 to $50
- Pool shock: $15 to $50
- Calcium hardness increaser: $2 to $15
- Baking soda/soda ash: $10 to $30
- Muriatic acid: $5 to $30
Note: These costs are based on pools with volumes between 10,000 to 20,000 gallons, and actual expenses may vary depending on your pool’s specific needs.
Additional Materials Needed
Beyond chemicals, you’ll need various tools and materials to properly close your pool. Here are typical costs for these items:
- Air pillow: $20 to $50
- Winter pool cover: $50 to $500
- Automatic pool vacuum: $25 to $500
- Pool brush: $10 to $40
- Skimmer net: $10 to $50
- Telescopic pole: $30 to $50
Labor Costs
If you choose to close your pool independently, your primary expense is your own time. However, if you prefer to hire professionals, expect labor charges to range between $50 and $100 per hour. Overall, professional closing services typically cost between $150 and $300, encompassing the entire process.
Other Closing-Related Expenses
Additional costs may arise if you have special equipment or accessories requiring winter care:
Winterizing a Hot Tub
If you also need to prepare a hot tub or spa, expect an extra expense of about $40 to $100. Many pool owners skip this step because hot tubs are easier to maintain during winter and can be used year-round.
Winterizing Pool Equipment
Drain, winterize, and store your pool equipment such as pumps, filters, and heaters to prevent damage from cold weather. Doing this yourself costs little to nothing, but hiring a professional might add another $50 to $100 to your bill. Learn more about:
- Closing down pool pumps for the season
- Closing down pool heaters for the season
DIY Versus Hiring a Professional for Pool Closure
Deciding whether to close your pool yourself or hire a professional hinges on your skills, available time, and budget. Both options have their pros and cons:
DIY Pool Closing
For those with experience and confidence in pool maintenance, DIY closure can save significant money. It also offers a sense of achievement and hands-on control. However, risks include potential mistakes due to lack of expertise, which can lead to costly repairs, and the process can be physically demanding and time-consuming.
Hiring a Professional
Engaging a professional ensures that each step of the process is executed correctly, reducing the risk of damage and future repairs. It saves time and effort but comes at a higher financial cost, typically involving upfront labor and material fees. This approach is recommended for those less familiar with pool maintenance or when time is limited.
Cost of Permanently Removing a Pool
For homeowners opting to permanently close or remove their pool, the costs vary extensively—from $500 to as high as $22,000. Factors influencing this include the type of removal, pool size, whether it’s above ground or inground, and the complexity of the job. Typically, above ground pool removal costs between $500 and $3,000, averaging around $900. Inground pool removals are more complex, ranging from $4,000 to $22,000.
Pool Opening Expenses
Reopening your pool in the warmer months involves costs for chemicals, equipment, and labor if you hire professionals. Expect to spend between $100 and $400, depending on the pool type and whether you do it yourself or hire out. Typical costs include:
- Above ground pool: $175 to $225
- Inground pool: $250 to $400
- Saltwater pool: $100 to $400
- DIY opening: around $100
- Professional opening: $250 to $300, with some cases exceeding $400 or even $500 for neglected pools.
Get My Free Pool Care Checklist
Download my comprehensive, printable pool maintenance checklist to streamline your routine care tasks, ensuring your pool remains clean, safe, and ready for use. Stay organized and keep your pool in top condition throughout the season!
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to close my pool?
If you have a pool heater, you can extend the swimming season by a month or two. Generally, it’s advisable to close your pool once temperatures consistently fall below 65°F. Waiting until then helps prevent algae growth and makes opening in spring easier and less costly. Many pool owners consider Labor Day as the traditional closing date, but monitoring local weather and water temperature provides a better guideline.
What is the typical cost to have a professional close my pool?
Hiring a professional to close your pool usually costs between $50 and $100 per hour. Overall, expect to pay approximately $150 to $300 for the entire process, depending on the complexity and size of your pool.
Final Thoughts on Pool Closing Costs
Being aware of and planning for the costs associated with closing your pool each season is vital for responsible ownership. While the excitement of pool ownership often centers on summer enjoyment, proper winterization safeguards your investment, ensures safety, and makes spring reopening smooth and straightforward. Budgeting appropriately for these expenses helps prevent surprises and prolongs the lifespan of your pool equipment. If you have further questions or need assistance with pool maintenance, feel free to reach out—I’m here to help!
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