Long Island Pool Owners Are Swimming Longer: How Climate Change Is Pushing Back Pool Closing Season
Pool owners across Long Island are discovering an unexpected benefit of our changing climate—extended swimming seasons that stretch well into fall. Sea surface temperature is rising around Long Island, with the largest increases in summer and fall, creating warmer conditions that are fundamentally shifting when homeowners need to close their pools for winter.
The Science Behind Later Pool Closings
Over the last century, average winter temperatures have increased by approximately 3°F, spring temperatures by 2°F, and summer and fall temperatures by 1.4°F across the northeastern United States. For Long Island specifically, temperature on Long Island is projected to increase 3.8 degrees (F)-5.8 degrees (F) by 2050 and 5.1 degrees (F) – 9.5 degrees (F) by 2080.
This warming trend is particularly pronounced in fall months. The first freeze is arriving later in 170 cities, or 85% of the 200 analyzed. Across these 170 cities, the first freeze is arriving 11 days later, on average, than in the early 1970s. The first freeze is now arriving at least two weeks later in 57 cities — especially cities in the Northeast and Upper Midwest.
What This Means for Long Island Pool Owners
Traditional pool closing schedules are becoming obsolete. Here in the northeast (Long Island), we typically close pools around October, but many professionals now recommend waiting longer. However, we recommend closing as late as possible so that the water temperature is lower (less chance of algae blooming under the cover when you close later).
Some pool service companies have adapted their schedules accordingly. We’ve even closed pools in late December – so it’s really up to you, demonstrating how dramatically the season has extended. If you can keep your pool heated, its possible to extend your pool season to October, and sometimes even November.
The Benefits and Challenges of Extended Seasons
While longer swimming seasons offer obvious recreational benefits, they also present new maintenance challenges. A warmer fall season means that risky heat, high cooling demand, wildfires, and allergies linger later into the year — affecting health, ecosystems, and the economy.
For pool maintenance, this extended season means:
- Continued chemical balancing requirements through November
- Extended filtration and circulation needs
- More debris management as trees hold leaves longer
- Potential algae growth in warmer water temperatures
Expert Guidance for Optimal Pool Closing Timing
Professional pool service companies like JAS Aquatics understand these changing patterns. Jas Aquatics is your go-to pool company in Long Island, NY. Experience top-notch pool construction and maintenance tailored to your unique needs. Since 2009, JAS Aquatics has been creating stunning outdoor spaces with custom in-ground swimming pools as their centerpiece. When it comes to your backyard, you should never settle for anything less than what you want, and we remain committed to bringing your backyard to life with quality materials, superior construction, and exceptional customer service.
The company’s approach to seasonal changes reflects their understanding of local climate patterns. We schedule closings for mid to late October when nighttime temperatures consistently drop below 50 degrees – the optimal timing to protect your investment without wasting swimming time. Their expertise becomes particularly valuable as The chemical balance is crucial because Long Island pools face months of cold weather, potential snow melt, and debris that can blow through covers. Generic winterizing chemicals often fail in our climate, leading to green, stained pools come spring. Our chemical program is tested specifically for Nassau and Suffolk County conditions. We know exactly what concentrations work and what doesn’t, so your pool opens clean and clear instead of requiring expensive chemical shock treatments and stain removal.
Planning for the Future
As climate change continues to affect Long Island’s seasonal patterns, pool owners should work with experienced professionals who understand these evolving conditions. Whether you need routine maintenance or comprehensive Pool Closing Long Island, NY services, choosing a company that adapts to changing climate patterns ensures your pool investment remains protected.
Schedule as early as possible, ideally by late August or early September. Our closure slots fill up rapidly after mid-August because everyone needs their pool winterized during the same narrow window in October. Waiting too long means you might not get your preferred date, or worse, you might have to close after the first freeze when damage has already started.
The changing climate presents both opportunities and challenges for Long Island pool owners. While extended swimming seasons offer more enjoyment, they require updated maintenance strategies and professional expertise to navigate successfully. By understanding these climate trends and working with knowledgeable professionals, homeowners can maximize their pool enjoyment while protecting their investment for years to come.