A Practical Guide for Franklin & Murfreesboro Pool Owners

As the weather cools across Middle Tennessee and fall colors begin to fade, homeowners in Franklin, Murfreesboro, Brentwood, Nolensville, and surrounding areas face a familiar question:

“Should I close my pool for the winter or keep it open?”

Tennessee winters can swing from mild stretches to sudden deep freezes, so both options can work well if done correctly. The best choice depends on your yard, your equipment, and how much maintenance you are willing to handle between November and February.

Option 1: Fully Closing Your Pool (Traditional Winterization)

This is the standard approach for homeowners who want maximum freeze protection and minimal winter upkeep.

Why Some Homeowners Close Their Pools

Many Middle Tennessee homeowners still prefer closing their pools because:

It provides maximum protection from freeze damage by blowing out and sealing plumbing lines.
It reduces weekly winter maintenance and eliminates the need to monitor the pool during extreme cold.
It helps manage heavy leaf environments, especially in areas like Franklin and Brentwood where mature trees drop significant debris.

But Closing Isn’t Always the Cheapest Option

While closing reduces ongoing winter maintenance, it also comes with:

The cost of a professional closing service
The cost of a spring opening service
Potential green-to-clean treatments if the water turns over winter
Additional chemicals sometimes needed in the spring

So while closing may seem cheaper, the total cost over the winter season can easily match or even exceed the cost of keeping the pool open and maintaining it lightly. This is particularly true in Middle Tennessee, where winters are generally mild.

What’s Included in a Proper Closing

A safe, professional winterization typically includes:

Blowing out all plumbing lines
Installing winter plugs
Adding winterizing chemicals
Using a safety cover to keep out debris
Removing and storing certain equipment

Option 2: Keeping Your Pool Open All Winter

This approach is becoming more popular in Murfreesboro, Franklin, and the greater Nashville region due to generally mild winters.

Why Many Homeowners Keep Their Pools Open

It makes spring opening much easier with clearer water.
You avoid the costs associated with closing and reopening a pool.
Heated pools can remain usable on mild winter days.
There is no risk of algae blooms under a cover.

What You Need to Keep a Pool Open Safely

If you choose to keep your pool open, essential items include:

A reliable freeze guard to automatically activate the pump during cold snaps
Continuous water circulation during freezing weather
A plan for power outages
Light but regular chemical checks

How to Decide: Close or Keep It Open?

Closing Your Pool Is Best If You:

Have heavy leaf and debris during fall and winter
Want maximum freeze protection
Prefer not to think about the pool at all during winter

Keeping Your Pool Open Is Best If You:

Have lighter debris loads
Prefer easy spring openings
Have reliable freeze protection equipment
Want to avoid the cumulative costs of closing, opening, and potential clean-ups

Final Thoughts for Middle Tennessee Pool Owners

Whether you live in Franklin, Murfreesboro, Brentwood, College Grove, or anywhere in Williamson or Rutherford County, the decision comes down to convenience, cost structure, debris levels, and personal preference.