Six Steps To Winterizing Your Pool Like A Pro

In this article we set out the right way to close your pool for the winter months. Your goals are to protect the pool from damage caused by freezing water, save on pool maintenance costs and ensure a quick opening in the Spring. Here are the six steps:

Step 1 – Give the pool a thorough clean. Scrub down the walls, skim the surface of the water and run your pool vacuum cleaner. Remove all floats, skimmer baskets, ladders, ropes and other pool accessories.

Step 2 – Test the pH and alkalinity of the water to ensure these fall within recommended levels. For most pools you want to keep pH levels between 7.2 and 7.8 and alkalinity between 80 and 120 ppm. If the pool chemistry is unbalanced it will reduce the effectiveness of your “winterizing chemicals.” (see step 3)

Step 3 – Add the following “winterizing chemicals” to the pool: A non-chlorine shock treatment (with chlorine shock you run the risk of bleaching the pool surfaces), a slow release floating winter oxidizer and a winter algaecide. These three chemicals are often sold together as a “winter pool kit.” Some kits also contain a stain prevention product. Circulate the water for a few hours after adding the chemicals to ensure an even distribution with no dead spots.

Step 4 – Drain the pool until the water level is below the return hose of your pump and skimmers. This step may not be necessary if you blow out the pipes (see step 5) and add plugs to the skimmers and return jets.

Step 5 – Close down and drain the pump and filter system ensuring you follow the manufactures instructions closely. If you are in a very cold location you will need to blow the water out of the plumbing lines using a compressor or shop vacuum and plug the returns. If you are not able to remove the water from the pipes you may have to add pool grade antifreeze.

Step 6 – Place a good quality, tight fitting cover over the pool and secure it well. Ideally you want a cover that not only protects the pool from harsh weather but also does allow any debris to enter the pool. Pool covers will last longer if you do not have to drain the pool (see step 4). Some pool experts recommend placing an air pillow on the water to take up the slack if the pool water freezes.