How much does a pool closing cost?
How much does a pool closing cost?
$250 – $500 average cost (inground pool)
$150 – $300 average cost (above-ground pool)
Average cost to close a pool
Pool closing costs $250 to $500 for an inground pool and $150 to $300 for an above-ground pool on average. Closing, or winterizing, a swimming pool is a service done by pool professionals to make sure none of the components are damaged by freezing temperatures during the winter.
| Factor | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Inground | $250 – $500 |
| Above-ground | $150 – $300 |
Inground
Closing an inground pool costs $250 to $500, depending on the size. Inground pools tend to cost more to winterize than above-ground pools because they’re typically larger and have more equipment and accessories, like hot tubs or pool heaters.
Above-ground
Closing an above-ground pool costs $150 to $300 on average, depending on whether you have steps or a ladder, a custom cover, or a center drain. Contractors have to blow out and cap center drains in above-ground pools, which increases costs.
What is pool closing?
Closing a pool, also called winterizing, means preparing a swimming pool and any equipment for wintertime and freezing temperatures. This involves deep cleaning the pool, lowering the water level, adding chemicals, and draining any plumbing.
If you live in an area that stays warm all year round, you may only need to cover your pool when it’s not in use. If you live in a colder climate, you should close your pool when temperatures dip below 65 degrees but before they hit freezing levels.
Never completely drain your pool for the winter. This could cause pressure from the frozen ground to damage your pool’s liner. Proper winter water levels are 3 to 6 inches below the skimmer.
Cost to winterize a pool by chemical
When a technician closes your pool, they will drain some water and use a combination of cleaning chemicals to adjust the pH levels and ensure the water remains balanced, clear, and free from algae and stains during the off-season. They may also "shock" the water to raise the free chlorine level and eliminate contaminants.
| Cleaning chemical type | Average cost* |
|---|---|
| Algaecide | $15 – $60 |
| Chlorine | $15 – $80 |
| Stabilizer | $20 – $30 |
| Shock | $30 – $50 |
| Bromine | $30 – $50 |
*Material costs only. Does not include other services or labor charges.
Swimming pool closing cost factors
The cost of closing a pool depends on the following factors:
Pool size: Larger pools take longer and cost more to close because they have a larger surface area to clean and are more likely to have add-ons like hot tubs and heaters, which require more time and care.
Pool cover: Pool covers cost $75 to $250 for a basic winter cover, $1,000 to $3,600 for a manual safety cover, or $8,000 to $20,000 for an automatic retractable cover. Most professionals recommend covering the pool during winter to prevent accidents and debris, and some companies include disposable covers in their closing prices.
Maintenance: Closing your pool is part of pool ownership. Pool maintenance costs $80 to $150 per month on average, including checking pH levels and inspecting equipment.
Floating devices: If you have issues with bacteria or algae, you can use a floating winter pill for $15 to $25 to distribute chemicals throughout the winter. An air pillow costs $10 to $30 and sits under above-ground pool covers to balance the weight of ice and snow.
Location: If you live in an area that stays warm even during wintertime, you may not have to winterize your pool. Instead, cover the pool and turn off the pump when you’re on vacation or not using it.
Labor
Most pool service professionals charge $50 to $100 per hour. Closing a pool involves several tasks, including deep cleaning and balancing pool chemicals. The more tasks the contractor completes, the longer it will take and the more it will cost.
Other projects
If your pool has extra features, the pool professional may charge more to winterize these elements as well as the pool itself. Specific services vary by company, so be sure to ask what’s included in their fee. The table below shows the approximate cost of closing these other features:
| Additional task | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Closing a hot tub | $50 – $100 |
| Closing a cleaning system | $40 – $80 |
| Lowering water levels | $50 – $150 |
| Closing a water feature or spa | $50 – $60 each |
| Draining and lubricating equipment | $30 – $40 each |
| Adding antifreeze to a solar heater or drain | $10 – $50 |
Cost to permanently close a pool
Some homeowners close their pools permanently because the pool fell into disrepair, or they don’t want to deal with the hassle and costs of pool ownership anymore. Pool removal or filling costs $300 to $16,000, depending on whether it’s above-ground or inground.
Above-ground: A pro can demolish an above-ground pool for $300 to $800, or up to $2,500 if the pool has a deck attached. This is much easier than removing an inground pool because the materials are light and easily accessible.
Inground: Inground pool removal costs $4,000 to $16,000 for a full demolition, or $2,000 to $10,000 to simply fill the area with dirt.
Pool opening
When temperatures start rising again after winter is over, you can open your pool again. Pool opening costs $250 to $400 for an inground pool on average and $150 to $250 for an above-ground pool.
When opening a pool, the contractor will:
Remove the cover
Add water
Clean everything
“Shock” the pool
Hook up equipment and run the pump
If you’re confident in your DIY skills, you can buy a pool closing or opening kit from a local pool supply or hardware store for $30 to $80. Be aware that any mistakes made when opening or closing a pool can have expensive consequences.
Pool closing FAQs
When should I close my pool for winter?
The best time to close your pool for winter is September or October, or whenever the temperature regularly drops below 65 degrees Fahrenheit. In the warmest parts of the country like Florida or California, you can often keep your pool open year-round.
How low should the water level be when closing a pool?
Your water level should be 3 to 6 inches below the skimmer during the winter. This usually means removing about 12 inches of water from the pool each year and filling it back in after the winter months.
How long does it take to close a pool?
Closing a pool takes about 2 hours on average, depending on the type and size. Above-ground pools take less time than inground pools or those with added features like hot tubs. Custom-fitted covers are harder to install and may take longer.
Do I need to clean my pool before closing it?
Yes, cleaning your pool before or during the closing process is important. Removing leaves, bugs, and debris helps prevent algae growth and long-term staining. Be sure to skim debris off the top of the water as well as vacuum and brush the bottom and sides of the pool.
Getting estimates from pool service companies
Follow these steps when looking for pool service companies near you:
Compare at least 3 bids from experienced, reputable contractors.
Look for members of the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP).
Read customer reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Be wary of the lowest estimates, which can indicate poor-quality work.
Get an estimate or contract in writing.
Wait until they finish closing to pay in full.
Questions to ask pool contractors
Ask the following questions to help find the best pool service professionals possible:
How long have you been opening and closing pools?
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
What services do you include in this price?
Can you open my pool next year, too? How much would that cost?
Do you charge a flat rate or an hourly fee?
How long will the closing take?
Will you drain the pool as part of the closing?
Do you have any offers or promotional rates?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.