How to Close Your Pool Without Polluting Mississauga’s Waterways
MISSISSAUGA — As summer winds down, many Mississauga residents are preparing to close their backyard pools. The City of Mississauga is reminding pool owners to do so responsibly to protect local rivers, wildlife, and Lake Ontario — the source of the city’s drinking water.
While chemicals such as chlorine and sodium chloride are essential for pool maintenance, they can be harmful to the environment if drained into storm drains or ditches. Improper disposal risks contaminating stormwater systems and harming plants and animals.
To prevent pollution, the City has provided detailed steps for closing pools safely and in line with its Storm Sewer By-law 0046-2022 and Debris and Littering By-law 0219-1985.
Step 1: Clean and Test Pool Water
Before draining, skim the pool surface to remove leaves, grass clippings, and debris. Remove and store automated cleaners.
Test chlorine and pH levels, treating the water until it reaches a neutral pH of 7.0. Allow the water to sit untreated for at least seven days. Chlorine levels must reach zero before draining.
Step 2: Lower the Water Level Responsibly
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Chlorine-treated pools: Use a pump and flexible hose to direct water to the curb, ensuring it does not drain onto neighbouring properties. Lower the level to four to six inches below the skimmer.
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Saltwater pools: Drain slowly into a sanitary drain inside the house (e.g., basement sink, shower, or floor drain). Salt water should never be discharged into storm drains or onto lawns, as it cannot be treated and is harmful to waterways.
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Soft-sided temporary pools: Drain and dry pipes, pumps, and liners before storing them. Collapsible vinyl pools may be left in place if covered with a waterproof tarp and protected from damage.
Step 3: Remove Equipment and Clean Filters
Take out ladders, pool toys, and cleaning equipment. Rinse and dry them before storage.
Wipe down exposed pool surfaces and safely dispose of used filter cartridges with household waste. Any leftover hazardous pool chemicals should be dropped off at a Community Recycling Centre.
Step 4: Winterize and Cover the Pool
Add winterizing chemicals, such as non-chlorine shock and algaecide, to control algae and microbes. For piping, skimmers, and pumps, use non-toxic antifreeze to protect against frost damage, removing it in spring.
Finally, install a secure winter pool cover to protect people, pets, and wildlife, while keeping the water as clean as possible.
Protecting Local Waterways
By following these steps, residents help ensure harmful chemicals stay out of Mississauga’s stormwater system and Lake Ontario. Proper pool closure not only prevents environmental damage but also helps safeguard public health and infrastructure.
For more details, including resources on stormwater management, visit mississauga.ca/stormwater.
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