What must be done before closing a pool for winter?

Draining the water below the skimmer and winterizing the equipment are crucial steps before closing a pool for winter because this helps prevent damage to the pool and its components due to freezing temperatures. By draining the water below the skimmer, you reduce the risk of ice forming in the skimmer and plumbing lines, which can lead to cracks and costly repairs when the pool is reopened. Additionally, winterizing the equipment, such as pumps and filters, involves removing water from these components and potentially adding antifreeze to prevent any residual water from freezing and expanding within the equipment.

Adjusting chlorine levels high during the winterization process is generally not necessary, as chlorine levels should be stabilized for winter months to prevent algae growth without over-chlorinating. While installing a pool cover is important for maintaining cleanliness and preventing debris accumulation, it should be done after proper winterization. Cleaning tiles may be part of regular maintenance but is not a primary concern when preparing a pool for winter and does not address the critical issues related to freezing and equipment protection.