Table of Contents
How do I winterize my inground pool?
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 do you drain an inground pool for the winter?
In-Ground Pools In-ground pool draining requirements are similar to those of their above-ground counterparts. 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.
What do you put in your pool to winterize it?
When the water has completely drained out of the plumbing lines (or after you’ve blown out the lines), put winterizing plugs into the return and skimmer lines. Add non-toxic pool antifreeze to all lines. This specialized antifreeze should be added at the rate of one gallon per 10 feet of pipe.
Should you drain a concrete pool for 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.
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 much antifreeze is needed to winterize a pool?
you will need one gallon of non-toxic swimming pool antifreeze for each 25 feet of underground line to and from the pool (including all skimmer lines, all returns, and the main drain).
Does a pool lose water in the winter?
An uncovered pool will lose water in the winter to evaporation in the same way it does during the summer. But the water loss is only about a quarter-inch on average during a 24-hour period when the pool is not in use. An uncovered or covered pool can have problems in the plumbing lines or pump.
Should I drain my pool below the skimmer for winter?
Do you need to drain any water when winterizing an above ground pool? The answer hinges on how you protect your skimmer during the winter. If you’re concerned about freezing and cracking, and don’t use a winter skimmer cover plate, then you should drain the water level below the skimmer and returns.
Do inground pools freeze in the winter?
Yes, they can freeze solid. If temperatures reach below zero, swimming pools that are not circulating can freeze solid within a few days. If those low temperatures continue for several days, the ice sheet can increase in thickness by up to ¼” per day.
How do you close a pool for season?
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.
Is a pool pillow necessary?
Pool air pillows are an essential part of winterizing an above-ground pool, especially if you live in a frosty climate. Without the pool pillow, the expanding ice will put pressure on the walls of your pool causing damage to the sides, the liner, and the cover.
Is it OK to leave a concrete pool empty?
Why You Should Not Leave Your Pool Empty Hydrostatic pressure (pressure from stationary water in the ground). That’s the quick answer. But if you empty the pool, even concrete pools, you risk serious issues, including damaging the vinyl liner, cracking concrete sides, and the pool literally popping out of the ground.
When should I run my pool pump in the winter?
Even if you have your pool covered, some debris may still get in it during the winter. For this reason, you should consider running your pump on occasion whenever the outdoor temperature is between 35 and 65 degrees. Around four to six hours should be sufficient to remove debris and help promote good circulation.
How do you winterize an inground pool without water?
How to Winterize a Pool Without Lowering the Water Skim and vacuum the sides and bottom of the pool to remove dead leaves and other debris. Maintain proper pool chemical levels throughout the winter. Cover the pool if it will be used infrequently over the winter months.
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.
Is pool antifreeze safe to swim in?
Q: Will pool antifreeze harm the pool if it gets in the water? A: NO, it’s specifically non-toxic and won’t have any effect on the water chemistry and is not dangerous to swimmers.
How do I keep my pool pipes from freezing?
Insulate plumbing lines with blankets or towels to prevent freezing. Even pool noodles can serve as good insulation around pipes. Open all lines to ensure proper water flow. If a valve is shut off, no water will be flowing through that pipe and there is the danger of freezing damage.
