Properly closing your above-ground swimming pool for the winter is essential to protect it from the harsh cold, prevent damage from freezing water, and ensure that it’s ready to go when the swimming season returns. This guide provides you with a detailed, step-by-step approach to winterizing your pool to keep it in excellent condition for the next season.

Step 1: Clean Your Pool Thoroughly

Remove Debris Using a Skimmer Net or Leaf Rake

The first step in closing your pool is to remove any large debris such as leaves, twigs, and insects from the surface using a skimmer net or leaf rake. This ensures that the debris does not sink to the bottom or decompose, which could affect water chemistry over the winter.

Scrub the Pool Walls and Floor

Next, scrub the pool walls and floor using a pool brush. This will help to remove any algae buildup, dirt, or grime, preventing stains and other long-term issues during the off-season.

Vacuum the Pool to Waste

Vacuum your pool thoroughly to remove any remaining debris. It’s important to vacuum to waste (bypassing the filtration system) because this prevents debris from being reintroduced into the pool. This will help keep your pool water cleaner and your filter system free of contaminants.

Tip: Vacuuming to waste is essential to avoid the risk of contaminating your filtration system when the pool is not in use.

Step 2: Test and Adjust Water Chemistry Before Winterizing

Test and Balance the Water’s pH and Chlorine Levels

Before you add winterizing chemicals, it’s crucial to test and balance the water. Adjust the following levels to prevent problems like scaling, staining, and corrosion during the winter months:

• Chlorine: 1-3 ppm
• Alkalinity: 80-120 ppm
• pH: 7.4-7.6
• Calcium Hardness: 200-400 ppm

Add Winterizing Chemicals

Once the water chemistry is properly balanced, add the following winterizing chemicals:

• Shock treatment: To eliminate any remaining bacteria or algae in the water.
• Algaecide: To prevent algae growth during the winter months.
• Stain and scale inhibitors: To protect the pool’s surfaces from mineral buildup and staining.

Pro Tip: Test your water well in advance of winterizing to ensure you have enough time to adjust the chemical levels before you begin adding winter chemicals.

Step 3: Lower the Water Level

Reducing the water level ensures freezing temperatures don’t damage your pool or its equipment.

How Much to Reduce

• Lower the water 3-6 inches below the skimmer to ensure no water enters the skimmer or return lines during freezing conditions

How to Lower the Water Level

Use a siphon or submersible pump to lower the water level to just below the skimmer. Be careful not to lower the water too much, as that can put undue stress on the pool liner.

Pro Tip: If you don’t want to lower the water level too much, use a skimmer plug. This will prevent water from entering the skimmer and freezing in the plumbing lines, offering additional protection without reducing the water level too drastically.

Step 4: Drain, Store, and Winterize Pool Equipment

Drain and Store Pool Equipment

Disconnect the pump and filtration system and drain any remaining water from these components. This will prevent freezing water from damaging the equipment.

• For sand filters: Backwash and drain thoroughly.
  
• For cartridge filters: Remove the cartridge, clean it, and allow it to dry before storing it indoors.

Winterizing the Plumbing

• Install Winterizing Plugs: Place winterizing plugs in the return jets and skimmer to prevent any remaining water from freezing inside the lines.
  
• Use a Wet/Dry Vacuum: To blow out any remaining water from the plumbing lines, use a wet/dry vacuum. This is crucial in preventing freeze damage. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for this step to ensure proper results.

Step 5: Add Air Pillows and Secure the Pool Cover

Prevent Cover Damage with Air Pillows

Air pillows or other pool cover supports should be placed under the cover to prevent it from sagging. This allows rain or snow to drain off the cover, reducing the risk of damage.

• For round pools, place one or two pillows in the center.
  
• For oval pools, place one pillow at each end.

Make sure the pillows are about 2/3 inflated to provide adequate support without stressing the cover.

Secure the Pool Cover

After placing the air pillows, spread the pool cover over the pool and secure it tightly with cables or water bags. This will prevent wind from lifting the cover and stop debris from entering the pool.

Tip: If your area is prone to heavy winds, use cover clips to secure the cover tightly, especially around the edges.

Step 6: Store Chemicals and Equipment Safely

Store Pool Chemicals Properly

Store any leftover pool chemicals in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and freezing temperatures. Keeping your chemicals in the right conditions ensures they remain effective for the next season.

Store Pool Accessories and Equipment

• Ladders and Skimmers: Remove ladders, handrails, and skimmers. Clean them and store them in a dry, temperature-controlled area to prevent damage.
  
• Pool Cover: Store your pool cover in a safe location and inspect it for any tears or damage. If you notice any damage, repair it before the next season.

Step 7: Inspect the Pool Cover and Check for Tears

Inspect and Secure the Pool Cover

Before fully securing the pool for the winter, inspect the pool cover for any tears or damage. This is one of your final checks to ensure the cover will protect your pool from debris and other hazards during the winter months.

• Check for holes or tears: Use a pool cover repair kit to fix any small rips or holes.
  
• Keep the cover clean: During the winter, clear any debris that might accumulate on the cover to avoid damage and ensure the cover remains functional.

Properly closing your above-ground swimming pool for the winter is essential for preserving its condition and preventing damage. By following these detailed steps cleaning, adjusting water chemistry, lowering the water level, and securing the pool cover you can ensure your pool is ready for the next season. For more tips and accessories, check out Aosom’s collection of Outdoor Swimming Pools.

FAQs

1. How can I prevent my pool cover from sagging in the winter?

Place air pillows under the cover to provide support and prevent sagging. Inflate them about two-thirds to maintain proper tension and allow rain or snow to drain off, preventing damage to the cover.

2. What should I do if there is debris in my pool during winter?

Check your pool cover regularly for debris buildup, and remove it using a soft-bristle broom or a pool cover pump. Avoid sharp objects that could damage the cover or puncture it.

3. How can I protect my pool’s plumbing from freezing?

Ensure all water is drained from the plumbing lines by using a wet/dry vacuum, and install winterizing plugs in the return jets and skimmer to prevent water from freezing inside the pipes.