As the days get cooler and leaves start to fall, it’s time to start thinking about closing your pool for the season. While it might be tempting to wait until the last minute, preparing early helps protect your investment and makes reopening next spring a breeze. Here are five essential things to do before closing your pool, plus why a Tara Safety Cover should be part of your closing checklist.

1. Balance Your Water Chemistry

Before you drain or cover anything, make sure your pool water is properly balanced. Adjust your pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness to recommended levels. This prevents scale buildup, corrosion, and staining during the winter months. A balanced pool now means less cleanup later.

2. Shock and Clean the Pool

Give your pool a final shock treatment to eliminate lingering bacteria and algae. Then, brush the walls, vacuum the floor, and clear out all debris. Leaving organic matter in your pool can cause staining and make spring cleanup much harder.

3. Lower the Water Level and Protect Equipment

Talk with your local pool professional about if you should lower the water level below the skimmer and return lines to prevent freezing damage. Make sure you drain water from your pump, filter, heater, and hoses, or use an air compressor to blow out the lines. Store all removable equipment in a dry place to extend its lifespan.

4. Cover with a High-Quality Safety Cover

A Tara Safety Cover is one of the best investments you can make for your pool. These covers are custom-fitted to your pool’s shape, providing a secure, tight seal that keeps out debris and protects against accidental entry by pets or children.
Made with durable mesh or solid materials, Tara Safety Covers stand up to harsh weather and maintain their appearance season after season. Plus, with a variety of colors to complement your backyard, they’re just as stylish as they are strong.

5. Plan Ahead for Next Season

Use the closing process as a time to take notes on any maintenance or upgrades your pool may need next year. Whether it’s replacing a liner, updating lighting, or refreshing landscaping, early planning ensures your pool will be ready to enjoy as soon as warm weather returns.

Why Early Preparation Matters

Closing your pool early, before temperatures dip too low, gives you time to do it right. It prevents freeze damage, saves you from rushing through steps, and ensures your cover fits securely before debris starts piling up. Early prep also helps you spot small issues before they turn into costly repairs.