Closing your swimming pool for the season is a crucial task for pool owners, but doing so with a known leak can lead to a host of problems. This oversight may seem minor, but the consequences can be severe and costly. Let's explore why closing a leaking pool is a risky move and what steps can be taken to address the issue.

The Dangers of Closing a Leaking Pool

Structural Damage

When a pool with a leak is closed for winter, the water level can drop significantly. In regions where freezing occurs, this can lead to a dangerous situation. As the remaining water freezes and expands, it can cause structural damage to the pool walls and floor. For above-ground pools, the risk is even higher, as the ice layer can crash down as it melts, potentially causing catastrophic damage.

Liner Issues

Pool liners are designed to be in constant contact with water. When water levels drop due to a leak, the liner may shrink, become brittle, or develop wrinkles. These issues can lead to tears or complete liner failure, necessitating an expensive replacement come spring.

Chemical Imbalance

A leaking pool will lose not only water but also the chemicals necessary for maintaining proper water chemistry. This imbalance can lead to algae growth and other water quality issues, making reopening the pool a more challenging and time-consuming process.

Ground Erosion

Water leaking from the pool can erode the soil around and underneath the structure. This erosion may cause shifting or settling of the pool, leading to further structural problems and potentially compromising the integrity of the surrounding landscape.

Increased Energy Costs

If the leak is significant, attempting to maintain proper water levels throughout the winter can result in substantially higher water bills. Additionally, if the pool's heating system is still operational, it may work overtime to heat the constantly replenished cold water, leading to increased energy costs.

Cover Damage

Pool covers are designed to rest on the water's surface. If the water level drops significantly due to a leak, the cover may sag, collect debris, or even tear under the weight of snow and ice.

Addressing Pool Leaks Before Closing

Before closing your pool for the season, it's crucial to identify and repair any leaks. Here are some recommended products to help with leak detection and repair:

For Leak Detection:

• Pentair Rainbow Leak Detector Kit #151, R220006
• Leakmaster Pre-Filled Dye Tester for Finding Pool/Spa Leaks, DT665

For Temporary Leak Sealing:

• Pentair Pool Leak Stop 1 Qt, 48220000

For Permanent Repairs:

• Anderson Leakmaster White 4 Oz. Tube of Flexible Sealer, FS4W
• Atlas Minerals 2-Part Pool Putty White 14 Oz, 530318
• Atlas Minerals 2-Part Pool Putty Black 14 Oz, 530317
• Anderson 14 Oz A+B White Epoxy Putty Kit, 9904

For PVC and Vinyl Liner Repairs:

• Hayward Schmear Pellets for PVC Repairs, White, ECX1308
• Boxer Adhesives #110 Vinyl Liner Repair Kit 4 Oz Tube
• Boxer Adhesives Peel and Stick Vinyl Repair Kit, Large, #10
• Boxer Adhesives 1 Oz Vinyl Pool Repair Kit, #759

A Must-Have for All Pool Owners

It is highly recommended that all pool owners keep the Boxer Adhesives #110 Vinyl Liner Repair Kit on hand at all times. This versatile kit can be a lifesaver for quick repairs, potentially preventing small issues from becoming major problems.

Conclusion

Closing a swimming pool with a leak is a risk not worth taking. The potential for structural damage, liner issues, and increased maintenance costs far outweigh the temporary convenience of ignoring the problem. By addressing leaks promptly and using the right products for detection and repair, pool owners can ensure their investment is protected throughout the off-season and ready for enjoyment when warmer weather returns.