How to Close a Coleman Above Ground Pool for Winter Success

Closing a Coleman above ground pool for the season is a key task if you want to keep your pool in good condition. Many pool owners underestimate how important proper closing is. They may rush the process or skip steps, but this can lead to algae, stains, or expensive repairs when you open the pool next season.

Taking a bit more time now saves you many headaches later.

Most people think closing a pool is just about putting on the cover, but there’s much more to it. You need to balance the water, protect the equipment, and keep debris and algae out. If you do each step the right way, your pool will be clean and almost ready to use when you open it again.

If this is your first time, don’t worry. Closing a Coleman above ground pool is something you can do yourself with a bit of patience. You don’t need special skills, but you do need to follow each step carefully. This guide explains everything you need, from preparing the water to adding winter chemicals and making sure your cover stays put through the winter.

Let’s walk through the complete process to close your Coleman above ground pool the right way, avoid common mistakes, and keep your pool safe during the off-season.

Why Properly Closing Your Pool Matters

Many people wonder if it’s really necessary to close their pool carefully. The answer is yes, and here’s why:

• Prevents damage: Water expands when it freezes. If you leave water in the equipment or pipes, it can crack or break them.
• Saves money: Cleaning a dirty or algae-filled pool in the spring costs more than closing it well in the fall.
• Protects water quality: Balanced water with the right chemicals stops bacteria and algae from growing while the pool is unused.
• Extends pool life: Covers, liners, and pumps last longer when stored or protected correctly.

People sometimes skip steps to save time, but opening a poorly closed pool in spring often means more work and money. A little extra effort now pays off in the long run.

When To Close A Coleman Above Ground Pool

Timing is important. If you close your pool too early, you might waste chemicals or miss the last warm days. If you wait too long, leaves and debris can make the pool dirty.

The best time to close your pool is when the water temperature stays below 65°F (18°C). At this temperature, algae and bacteria grow much slower. For most areas, this is in late September or October, but it depends on your climate.

Don’t just look at the air temperature. Use a pool thermometer to check the water. Closing the pool while water is still warm is one of the most common mistakes new pool owners make.

Credit: www.ebay.com

Tools And Supplies You’ll Need

Before starting, gather everything you need. This avoids delays and makes the process smoother.

Basic tools and equipment:

• Pool vacuum or automatic cleaner
• Skimmer net and pool brush
• Test kit or test strips for water chemistry
• Garden hose
• Air blower or wet/dry shop vacuum (optional, for blowing out lines)

Chemicals:

• Chlorine shock (pool shock granules)
• Algaecide
• Winterizing chemical kit (if available)
• PH increaser or pH decreaser
• Alkalinity and calcium hardness adjusters

Winterization gear:

• Winter pool cover (sized for your pool)
• Cover clips or cable and winch
• Air pillow (for round or oval pools)
• Pool plugs or winterizing plugs

Having all these items ready helps you finish the job without having to run to the store halfway through.

Cleaning The Pool: The First Step

A clean pool is easier to winterize. Dirt and leaves left in the pool can stain the liner and cause algae to grow, even in cold water.

• Remove all debris. Use a skimmer net to take out leaves, bugs, and anything floating on the water. Don’t forget to check the bottom.
• Vacuum the pool. Use a manual vacuum or an automatic cleaner to clean the floor and walls. Move slowly to avoid stirring up dirt.
• Brush the walls and floor. Even if the pool looks clean, brushing removes algae and dirt that stick to the liner.
• Empty the skimmer baskets and clean them well.
• Backwash the filter if you have a sand or DE filter. This clears out any trapped dirt.

A clean start makes it much easier to balance the water and keep it clean all winter.

Balancing The Pool Water

Balanced water helps your chemicals work better and protects your pool. Unbalanced water can stain the liner or cause scale and corrosion.

Test and adjust these key levels:

• PH: Aim for 7.2 to 7.6. Use a pH increaser or decreaser to adjust.
• Alkalinity: Keep between 80–120 ppm.
• Calcium hardness: Ideal is 200–400 ppm. Low hardness can damage liners; high levels cause scaling.
• Chlorine: Raise to 2–4 ppm before closing.

Add one chemical at a time and wait a few hours before adding the next, so they don’t interact badly. Always follow the instructions on the label.

Example Water Balancing Chart

Below is a quick reference for ideal water balance levels.

One insight many beginners miss: balancing alkalinity first makes it easier to adjust pH. If you try to fix pH before alkalinity, you might have to redo your work.

Shocking The Pool

Even if your water looks clean, there are always tiny bits of organic material and bacteria. Shocking means adding a large dose of chlorine to kill anything left.

• Use a chlorine shock designed for pools. The label will tell you how much to add for your pool size.
• Run the pump for 8–12 hours after adding shock, or until the chlorine returns to normal levels.
• Do this step 1–2 days before closing the pool, not on the final day. This gives time for the chlorine to settle so it doesn’t damage the cover or liner.

Do not swim in the pool after adding shock until chlorine levels drop below 5 ppm.

Adding Algaecide And Winter Chemicals

Algaecide is not always included in standard pool chemicals, but it’s important for closing. It stops algae from growing while the pool is closed.

• Add algaecide after shocking the pool and letting chlorine drop to normal levels.
• Use a winterizing algaecide if possible, as it works for longer periods.

Some people use a winterizing chemical kit. These kits often include shock, algaecide, and a metal sequestrant (to prevent stains). If you use a kit, follow the instructions closely.

A common mistake is adding algaecide and shock at the same time. High chlorine destroys the algaecide. Always shock first, then wait, then add algaecide.

Lowering The Water Level

In above ground pools like Coleman models, you don’t need to drain all the water. Draining too much can damage the liner. Instead, lower the water to just below the skimmer opening or return jets.

• Use a submersible pump or the pool’s drain function.
• Stop draining when water is about 2–4 inches below the skimmer.

If you live in a place with heavy freezing, you may need to lower the water a bit more. Never drain the pool completely, as the liner can shrink, crack, or wrinkle.

Non-obvious tip: Lowering the water level too much is a common beginner error. It can make the liner shift or collapse when it rains or snows.

Credit: www.youtube.com

Dealing With The Pool Equipment

Now it’s time to protect your pump, filter, and other equipment from freezing.

Pump And Filter

• Turn off all power to the pool equipment.
• Disconnect hoses from the pump and filter.
• Drain all water from the pump, filter, and heater (if you have one).
• If your filter has a drain plug, open it to let water out.
• Store small parts indoors so you don’t lose them.

Hoses And Fittings

• Remove all hoses and return fittings. Let them dry, then store them inside.
• Use winterizing plugs to seal the pool’s return and skimmer openings.

Air Pillow Installation

If your Coleman pool is round or oval, use an air pillow under the cover. This does two things:

• It supports the cover so rain and snow slide off.
• It relieves pressure from the pool walls if ice forms.

Inflate the air pillow and tie it in the center of the pool with strong string or rope. Don’t overinflate—about 60–70% full is best, so it can compress if ice forms.

Expert tip: Many people skip the air pillow, but this is risky in places with snow or ice. It really helps protect your pool.

Final Cleaning And Inspection

Before covering the pool, do a last check.

• Skim and vacuum the water one more time.
• Check the liner for any tears or damage. Fix small problems now to prevent them from getting worse over winter.
• Look for leaks around the fittings and seal them.

Taking 10 minutes for this step can prevent bigger problems in spring.

Credit: www.walmart.com

Covering Your Pool

A good cover keeps out debris, sunlight, and animals. Coleman pools usually use a winter cover made of strong, UV-resistant material.

• Spread the cover evenly over the pool. Center it so all sides hang over the edge.
• Secure the cover with a cable and winch, or with special cover clips. Make sure it’s tight but not so tight it tears.
• For windy areas, use cover weights or water bags around the edge.
• If you use an air pillow, the cover will rise in the middle and help water run off.

Comparison: Types Of Pool Covers

Here’s a quick look at different pool cover types and how they compare.

Choose a cover that matches your local weather. Cheap covers often tear after one or two winters.

Securing The Cover Against Wind And Weather

Wind is the main enemy of pool covers. If the cover flaps or comes off, debris gets in and the pool can get dirty.

• Use cover clips every 1–2 feet for a tight hold.
• In very windy places, add water bags or sandbags around the edge.
• Check the cover after big storms and tighten if needed.

If you get heavy snow, gently brush snow off the cover with a broom. Never use a shovel, as it can rip the material.

Non-obvious insight: Some people forget that rainwater can pool on top of the cover. This can stretch or tear the cover. Use a cover pump to remove standing water if needed.

Storing Pool Accessories And Equipment

Don’t leave pool gear outside all winter. Freeze and thaw cycles can damage even tough plastic.

• Store ladders, floats, toys, and skimmer nets indoors if possible.
• Clean everything before storing. Mold can grow on wet items.
• For chemical containers, store them in a dry, cool place away from sunlight.

If you have a solar cover, roll it up and store it out of sunlight.

Checking The Pool During Winter

Closing your pool isn’t a “set it and forget it” job. You should check on it a few times during winter.

• Look for tears or gaps in the cover after storms.
• Check for water collecting on the cover.
• Make sure the air pillow is still in the center.
• If you see ice, leave it alone. Don’t break it, as this can damage the liner.

A quick check every few weeks keeps small problems from turning into big ones.

Opening The Pool In Spring: What To Expect

When you close your pool the right way, opening it in spring is much easier. You’ll have clear water and less work.

Here’s what to expect:

• Remove the cover and air pillow.
• Reconnect hoses and equipment.
• Fill the pool to the normal level.
• Balance the water and run the filter.
• Vacuum any debris from the bottom.

If you see green water or algae, it’s usually because of missed steps in the closing process. Go back and review what you did, so you can avoid the same mistake next year.

Common Mistakes And How To Avoid Them

Many first-time pool owners make small errors that cause big headaches. Here are some of the most frequent mistakes—and how to avoid them:

• Closing the pool too early: Wait until water is below 65°F (18°C).
• Not balancing the water: Test and adjust all levels, not just chlorine.
• Adding algaecide and shock together: Always shock first, then wait, then add algaecide.
• Draining too much water: Only lower below the skimmer, never drain completely.
• Skipping air pillow in snowy climates: Always use it if you get snow or freezing rain.
• Forgetting to secure the cover: Use clips, weights, and check after storms.
• Leaving equipment outdoors: Store hoses, ladders, and toys inside.
• Not checking the pool during winter: Inspect every few weeks for problems.
• Not cleaning before closing: Dirt left in the pool will stain or cause algae.

Avoiding these mistakes can save you money and time in the spring.

Quick Reference: Coleman Pool Closing Steps

For a fast recap, here’s a simple checklist to keep you on track:

• Clean pool (skim, vacuum, brush)
• Test and balance water (pH, alkalinity, calcium, chlorine)
• Shock pool (1–2 days before closing)
• Add algaecide or winterizing chemicals
• Lower water level (below skimmer)
• Disconnect and drain equipment (pump, filter, hoses)
• Install air pillow (if needed)
• Cover pool securely (clips, weights)
• Store accessories inside
• Check cover during winter

Print this list and keep it handy so you don’t miss a step.

Table: Time And Effort For Each Step

Understanding how long each step takes can help you plan your day.

Most people can finish the whole process in a single afternoon.

The Value Of Doing It Yourself

You might be tempted to hire a pool service, but closing your own Coleman pool has real benefits:

• Saves money: Professional winterizing can cost $150–$300.
• Lets you spot problems: You’ll notice leaks, tears, or equipment issues.
• Gives you confidence: Each year, the process becomes faster and easier.

But if you feel unsure, it’s always smart to ask for help or check the official Coleman Pools guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Low Should I Drain My Coleman Above Ground Pool For Winter?

Lower the water to about 2–4 inches below the skimmer opening. This protects the skimmer from freeze damage but keeps enough water to support the liner. Never drain the pool completely.

Do I Need To Use An Air Pillow In My Coleman Pool?

If you live in an area that gets freezing weather or snow, an air pillow is very important. It prevents ice from pushing against the pool walls and helps water run off the cover. In warmer areas, it’s less critical but still useful.

What Chemicals Do I Need For Closing My Pool?

You need pool shock (chlorine), algaecide, and sometimes a winterizing chemical kit. Always balance pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness before adding these chemicals. Do not add shock and algaecide at the same time.

Can I Leave My Pump And Filter Attached During Winter?

No, you should disconnect, drain, and store the pump, filter, and hoses indoors if possible. Leaving them outside can cause cracks from freezing water inside.

How Often Should I Check My Pool Cover During Winter?

Check your pool cover every few weeks and after storms. Look for tears, gaps, and standing water. Remove water with a cover pump if needed, and fix any problems right away to protect your pool.

Closing your Coleman above ground pool the right way takes a bit of time, but it protects your investment and gives you an easy start in the spring. Follow these steps, avoid shortcuts, and your pool will be ready for another summer of fun.