As autumn arrives in Ottawa, pool owners face an important decision: which pool closing package best suits their needs? Understanding what’s included at different service levels helps you choose wisely, ensuring your pool receives proper winterization without paying for services you don’t need.
This guide breaks down the typical pool closing packages offered by Ottawa-area service providers, explaining what each level includes and helping you determine which option makes sense for your situation.
Why Pool Closing Package Selection Matters?
Proper pool closing isn’t just about covering your pool for winter it’s about protecting a significant investment from Ottawa’s harsh freeze-thaw cycles. Temperatures that plunge well below freezing can cause catastrophic damage to pools that aren’t properly winterized.
However, not every pool needs the same level of service. Your pool’s features, your experience level, and your budget all factor into which package makes the most sense. Understanding your options empowers you to make an informed choice.
Basic Pool Closing Package
The basic or “equipment only” package represents the minimum professional service for pool winterization. This entry-level option typically costs $225-$325 and focuses on the essential equipment protection tasks.
What’s Typically Included
Equipment Winterization
- Draining the pump, filter, and heater
- Winterizing the salt system or chemical feeder (if applicable)
- Removing and storing skimmer and pump baskets
- Basic inspection of equipment condition
Line Blowing
- Using commercial-grade blowers to remove water from plumbing lines
- Installing winter plugs in standard configurations
- Adding antifreeze to lines (antifreeze often charged separately)
Basic Accessory Removal
- Removing ladders and handrails
- Removing return eyeballs and fittings
- Removing safety rope (if applicable)
What’s NOT Included
Basic packages typically exclude:
- Pool cleaning or vacuuming
- Water level adjustment (customer responsibility)
- Cover installation
- Winterizing chemicals
- Additional features (spas, water features, multiple pumps)
Who Should Choose Basic
The basic package works well for experienced pool owners who:
- Are comfortable adjusting water levels themselves
- Can install their own winter cover
- Have already cleaned and chemically treated their pool
- Want professional equipment winterization but prefer to handle other tasks
Standard Pool Closing Package
The standard package represents the most popular choice for Ottawa homeowners, offering comprehensive winterization without premium add-ons. Expect to pay $325-$450 for this service level.
What’s Typically Included
Everything in the basic package, plus:
Water Level Management
- Guidance on proper water level for your pool type
- Some providers include water level adjustment
- Coordination with current city bylaws regarding drainage
Complete Line Winterization
- Thorough blowing of all plumbing lines
- Installation of winter plugs throughout the system
- Antifreeze application to all lines
- Duck plug system installation (increasingly common)
Cover Installation
- Installation of your existing winter cover
- Securing with water bags, cables, or anchors as appropriate
- Basic cover condition assessment
Deck Equipment
- Complete removal of ladders, handrails, and diving boards
- Removal of lights (where applicable)
- Storage recommendations for removed items
What’s NOT Included
Standard packages typically exclude:
- Deep cleaning or vacuuming
- Winterizing chemical application
- Cover cleaning and storage
- Complex features (spas, multiple water features)
- Late-season service (surcharges may apply after early November)
Who Should Choose Standard
The standard package suits most Ottawa homeowners who:
- Want comprehensive professional winterization
- Have a standard pool configuration (one skimmer, 2-3 returns)
- Can handle pre-closing cleaning themselves
- Already own an appropriate winter cover in good condition
Premium/Full-Service Pool Closing Package
The premium package provides complete, hands-off pool closing service. Pricing typically ranges from $450-$650+ depending on pool size and features.
What’s Typically Included
Everything in the standard package, plus:
Pre-Closing Cleaning
- Surface skimming and debris removal
- Vacuuming the pool floor
- Brushing walls and steps
- Waterline cleaning
Water Chemistry
- Final water testing and balancing
- Application of winterizing chemicals (shock, algaecide, stain prevention)
- Documentation of closing chemistry
Cover Services
- Professional cover installation
- Cover cleaning (for covers being stored)
- Cover condition assessment with replacement recommendations
- Proper folding and storage of summer covers
Equipment Inspection
- Detailed equipment condition assessment
- Written notes on any concerns or recommended repairs
- Recommendations for spring service needs
Additional Time
- Longer service window for thorough completion
- Addressing minor issues discovered during closing
- More personalized attention to your specific pool
What’s NOT Included (Even at Premium)
Even premium packages may exclude:
- Major repairs (addressed separately)
- Safety cover installation (often priced separately due to time required)
- Features requiring specialized attention (detailed spa winterization, complex automation)
- Replacement parts or equipment
Who Should Choose Premium
The premium package makes sense for homeowners who:
- Want completely hands-off service
- Don’t have time for pre-closing preparation
- Prefer thorough documentation of pool condition
- Want peace of mind knowing everything is handled properly
Specialized Add-On Services
Beyond standard packages, most providers offer additional services that can be added to any package:
Safety Cover Installation
Safety cover installation typically costs $100-$200 additional due to the time required for proper anchoring and tensioning. Safety covers provide superior protection and child/pet safety but require professional installation for optimal performance.
Attached Spa Winterization
Pools with attached spas require additional winterization steps. Expect $100-$200 additional for complete spa winterization, including separate blower lines, jets, and equipment.
Water Features
Fountains, waterfalls, and other water features with dedicated pumps need individual attention. Costs vary by complexity, typically $75-$150 per feature.
Late Season Closing
Closings scheduled after the first week of November often incur surcharges of $50-$100 due to challenging weather conditions and compressed scheduling.
Winterizing Chemical Kits
If not included in your package, winterizing chemical kits run $50-$100 and typically include shock treatment, algaecide, stain and scale preventer, and sometimes a slow-release winter pill.
Understanding the Duck Plug System
Many Ottawa pool service providers now use the “duck plug” system for winterization. Understanding this method helps you evaluate service options.
Traditional Method vs. Duck Plug System
Traditional Closing:
- Drains water level significantly below return jets
- Requires refilling in spring
- More water and chemical waste
Duck Plug System:
- Maintains water at mid-skimmer level
- Uses specialized plugs that seal from inside the plumbing
- Preserves water chemistry
- Reduces spring startup time and costs
The duck plug method has become increasingly popular because it protects the pool while preserving water. Ask your service provider which method they use and what the benefits are for your specific pool.
Questions to Ask Before Booking
When comparing pool closing packages, ask providers:
- What exactly is included in the quoted price? Get specifics, not generalities.
- What additional charges might apply? Understand potential add-ons for your pool’s features.
- Do you use the traditional or duck plug method? Understand how your pool will be winterized.
- Is antifreeze included or extra? Some providers charge separately for antifreeze.
- What’s your policy on late-season closings? Know if surcharges apply.
- Do you provide documentation? Written notes help with spring opening planning.
- What if you discover problems during closing? Understand how repairs are handled.
Making Your Decision
Choosing the right pool closing package depends on several factors:
Your Experience Level New pool owners benefit from premium service that handles everything. Experienced owners comfortable with cleaning and water chemistry may prefer basic or standard packages.
Your Available Time If autumn is busy for your family, premium service provides peace of mind. If you have time to prepare the pool yourself, standard or basic packages offer savings.
Your Pool’s Complexity Simple pools with standard configurations work fine with basic packages. Pools with spas, water features, or complex equipment may need premium service or significant add-ons.
Your Budget While the cheapest option isn’t always best, your budget matters. Sometimes a standard package plus specific add-ons delivers better value than a premium package.
Conclusion
Understanding what’s included in different pool closing packages empowers you to choose wisely. Whether you select a basic equipment-only service, a comprehensive standard package, or full-service premium closing, proper winterization protects your pool investment from Ottawa’s demanding winter climate.
Take time to compare offerings from reputable providers, ask detailed questions about what’s included, and choose the service level that matches your needs and capabilities. Your pool and your wallet will thank you when spring arrives and your pool opens smoothly.
Ready to schedule your Ottawa pool closing? Contact an experienced local provider to discuss which package best suits your pool and your needs.
