Table of Contents
Steps for Winterizing an In-Ground Pool Step 1: Remove pool accessories. Step 2: Deep clean the pool. Step 3: Adjust the water chemistry. Step 4: Lower the water level. Step 5: Drain and store the equipment. Step 6: Add shock and algaecide. Step 7: Cover the pool.
How far down do you drain your pool for winter?
Drain the water down to no more than 6 inches from the bottom of the skimmer if you plan to use a standard floating winter cover. Use your pool filter, switched to the “Drain” setting, to empty the pool water. Attach a pool hose to the end of the filter opening that leads to your yard’s drain to avoid flooding.
Can I leave my pool full over winter?
It’s not good to leave your pool empty when the weather gets cold. You may naturally assume it’s best to completely drain your pool of water for the winter months, because you fear the water will freeze and cause damage. Actually, it’s not good to leave your pool empty when the weather gets cold.
How do you close an above ground pool for the winter?
How to Close Your Above Ground Pool in 10 Steps Step 1: Deep Clean. Step 2: Balance your Water. Step 3: Add Winterizing Chemicals. Step 4: Add Pump Protector. Step 5: Protect Your Return and Skimmer. Step 6: Prepare Your Filter for Hibernation. Step 7: Clear the Pool. Step 8: Set Up Ice Equalizer Pillow.
Are pool winterizing chemicals necessary?
You do not need a pool winterizing kit. You really only need one chemical (algaecide) to properly winterize a swimming pool. You need some other stuff to protect your pool from harsh winter conditions, but only one chemical to add when closing.
How do you shock a pool for winter?
Never use chlorine tablets during the winter: you’ll want to opt for Assault 73 Shock or Quick Shock granular chlorine once a month (1 pound per 10,000 gallons.) After shocking, run the filter for 12 hours, then shut off.
Can I leave my sand filter out all winter?
Your pool equipment is a major expense; it is important to winterize your pool filter properly at the end of every season. As it is the end of the season, let the filter soak at least 24 hours.
Do I really need a pool pillow?
Do I Need A Pool Pillow? While they’re not 100% necessary, winter pool pillows are incredibly helpful. They help protect your pool from expanding ice and promote even weight distribution, which is why we highly encourage them for pool owners.
How high should pool water be in winter?
The best way to keep your winter cover on your pool is simply to maintain 2 inches of water on top of it and keep it free of leaves and other debris and monitor the water level inside the pool regularly.
Do pools need to be drained?
Even with proper and regular pool maintenance, it’s often necessary to drain your pool — completely or partially — every 3-5 years. Draining your pool often isn’t necessary, especially if you’re following a proper and regular maintenance program.
What happens if I don’t cover my pool for winter?
Pool Closing Mistake 1: Skipping the Pool Cover For one thing, an uncovered pool will become a catch-all for leaves and debris. Those leaves will spend all winter stewing away in the bottom of your pool. In the spring, you’ll be welcomed with a nasty, sludgy mess.
How do you prepare a pool to freeze?
Follow these 6 steps to close your pool in areas with frequent hard freezes: Properly balance pool water. Lower the water level to below the skimmer. Clear pipes and equipment of water using a blower or compressor and plug the pipes at the pool. Add swimming pool antifreeze to the lines to prevent freezing.
Can you leave above-ground pool up all year?
A common question asked is, “Can above ground pools stay up year round?” And although the easy answer is that “Yes, they can,” whether you want to leave them up year-round really depends on the type of pool you have. Dismantling some above ground pools for the winter may be more hassle than it’s worth.
Should I add algaecide when closing pool?
By simply adding algaecide to your water prior to closing, you can prevent algae growth from occurring during the cold, winter months which makes for an easier opening in the spring. You can apply algaecide directly to the pool water and allow the pump to continue to circulate for approximately two to four hours.
How much algaecide do you put in a pool?
Use the biguanide algaecide for your pool, measuring 16 ounces for every 10,000 gallons of water.
Should I add salt to my pool in winter?
Use salt test strips for an accurate reading and when the season starts cooling down, do not add anymore salt to the pool. It is better not to have a lot of salt in your pool toward the end of the season. Balancing your water’s chemistry is important for all pools during closing time.
Do I need to add chlorine to my pool in the winter?
During the winter months, the amount of chlorine needed from your salt cell to keep the pool clean is reduced. This is due to the fact that it is difficult for bacteria to grow in cold temperatures.
Can you shock a pool without the pump running?
It all depends on the type of pool and the chemical levels in the pool. Your pool can keep running for a few days with no problems while without a pump. However, know that a standard pool needs a pool running for at least once in 24 hours, or you might notice an algae bloom.
What is the winterize setting on pool filter?
After a backwash and rinse, place the valve to the “winterize” setting on the top mount valve. This will allow water to drain from the valve. Next, you’re going to have to completely drain all the water from the filter tank.
How do I protect my pool pump in the winter?
You should have a freeze protection device that will automatically turn the pump on when the temperature drops to around 34 degrees. A freeze protector will keep your pool running as long as the temperature remains close to freezing.
