Winterizing Pools

 

Winterizing your swimming pool protects it from freeze damage, algae growth, and costly repairs—making spring reopening smoother and safer. Here’s how to do it right.

❄️ Why Winterize Your Pool?

As temperatures drop below 65°F, pool owners should begin the winterization process. Cold weather can cause water to freeze and expand, cracking pipes, damaging equipment, and staining surfaces. Proper winterization:

• Prevents freeze damage to plumbing and surfaces
• Keeps water clean and balanced during the off-season
• Reduces algae and staining
• Extends the life of your pool and equipment

Whether you have an inground or above-ground pool, the steps are similar—with a few key differences.

🧰 Supplies You’ll Need

• Pool brush, vacuum, and skimmer net
• Water testing kit
• Winter chemical kit (shock, algaecide, metal sequestrant)
• Rubber plugs or Gizmos for skimmers
• Air compressor or shop vac (for blowing out lines)
• Submersible pump (to lower water level)
• Winter pool cover or safety cover
• Air pillow (for above-ground pools)

🧼 Step-by-Step Winterization Guide

1. Clean the Pool Thoroughly   Brush walls and floor, skim debris, and vacuum the pool. A clean pool is less likely to develop algae or stains over winter.

2. Test and Balance Water Chemistry   Adjust pH (7.2–7.6), alkalinity (80–120 ppm), calcium hardness (200–400 ppm), and chlorine (2–4 ppm). Balanced water prevents corrosion and scaling.

3. Add Winter Chemicals   Use a winterizing kit or add shock, algaecide, and metal sequestrant individually. These help maintain water clarity and prevent staining.

4. Lower the Water Level   Drain water below the skimmer and return jets for inground pools. For above-ground pools, lower just below the skimmer but not too far to avoid liner damage.

5. Blow Out the Lines   Use an air compressor to remove water from plumbing. Plug lines with expansion plugs and add pool-safe antifreeze if needed.

6. Remove Accessories   Take out ladders, skimmer baskets, cleaners, and solar covers. Clean and store them in a dry place.

7. Cover the Pool   Install a winter or safety cover securely. For above-ground pools, use an air pillow under the cover to reduce ice pressure.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping chemical balancing can lead to staining and algae
• Leaving water in pipes risks freeze damage
• Using household antifreeze instead of pool-safe formulas
• Covering a dirty pool traps debris and promotes algae

🧠 Final Thoughts

Winterizing your pool isn’t just a seasonal chore—it’s an investment in your pool’s longevity. Whether you’re a homeowner or a service pro managing hundreds of accounts, following these steps ensures a clean, damage-free pool come spring.