End-of-Year Pool Checklist Before 2026

End-of-Year Pool Checklist Before 2026

The end of the year is the best time to evaluate the true condition of your pool. With less use, reduced water movement, and more stable conditions, December makes it easier to detect issues that often go unnoticed during the rest of the year.

Following an end-of-year checklist helps prevent leaks, optimize the hydraulic system, and avoid costly repairs as 2026 begins.
At 305 Pool Leak Services, we perform preventive inspections focused on identifying technical issues before they turn into major problems.

Why end-of-year maintenance is different

Unlike regular maintenance, year-end maintenance focuses on the pool’s critical systems:

• Hydraulic system

• Pipes and connections

• Filtration and pressure

• Structure and finish

• Pump operation

Throughout the year, pools are exposed to constant use, chemicals, temperature changes, and gradual wear. If these factors aren’t evaluated in time, they can lead to hidden leaks or technical failures at the start of the new year.

How December conditions affect your pool

Although the weather isn’t extreme, December brings important changes to the system:

• Slight contraction of PVC pipes

• Drying of joints and seals

• Debris accumulation in lines

• Variations in filter pressure

These conditions make December ideal for performing an end-of-year checklist, as leaks and failures can be detected more accurately.

The filtration system: a key checklist item

The filtration system maintains the pool’s hydraulic balance. Improper operation can be a direct sign of a leak or internal failure.

A properly functioning system should:

• Maintain stable pressure

• Show no air bubbles in the returns

• Provide consistent water flow

• Operate without unusual noises

If you notice unstable pressure or air in the system, there may be a leak in connections, valves, or seals.

Technical checklist before closing the year

Before the year ends, it’s recommended to inspect:

• System joints and seals

• Return lines and skimmers

• Suction and drain pipes

• Valves and hydraulic unions

• Pump housing and motor

With reduced pool use, these inspections can be performed more accurately and without interference.

Common mistakes when doing an end-of-year checklist

Many problems worsen due to incorrect practices, such as:

• Ignoring small air bubbles in the returns

• Adjusting valves while the system is running

• Failing to check pressure after cleaning the filter

• Applying sealants without a technical diagnosis

These mistakes can cause overpressure, pump damage, or more severe leaks.

End the year with your pool ready for 2026

Completing an end-of-year checklist allows you to start 2026 with an efficient, safe pool system free of hidden leaks. Prevention is always more cost-effective than emergency repairs.