As temperatures drop, properly winterizing your pool equipment is essential to prevent costly damage and ensure a smooth reopening next spring. Here’s a comprehensive guide from Pools Plus More on what to do before the first freeze, including expert tips on maintaining water chemistry and protecting your investment.
Why Winterizing Matters
When water freezes inside pool equipment or plumbing, it expands and can crack pipes, pumps, filters, and heaters. Winterizing prevents this by removing water, balancing chemicals, and protecting all components from harsh winter conditions.
Step-by-Step Pool Equipment Winterization Checklist
1. Clean and Prepare the Pool
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Remove all pool accessories: Take out ladders, skimmer baskets, solar blankets, and steps. Clean and dry them before storing in a dry, safe place.
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Vacuum and brush the pool: Ensure all debris, leaves, and dirt are removed from the water and surfaces.
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Clean the filter: Backwash or clean your filter thoroughly to prevent buildup over winter.
2. Balance and Treat the Water
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Test and balance water chemistry: Adjust pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness to recommended levels to prevent corrosion and scaling.
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Shock and chlorinate: Use a pool shock treatment to eliminate contaminants. Double the usual dose for winterizing, then add an algaecide to prevent algae growth.
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Add winterizing chemicals: Consider a winter algaecide, metal inhibitor, and clarifier for long-term protection.
3. Lower the Water Level
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Lower water below the skimmer and return lines: This prevents water from entering and freezing in the plumbing or equipment.
4. Drain and Protect Equipment
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Turn off, drain, and store equipment: Drain all water from pumps, filters, heaters, chlorinators, and any other pool equipment. Remove drain plugs and store them in the pump basket for easy access in spring.
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Blow out plumbing lines: Use an air blower to remove all water from skimmer, return, and suction lines. Seal with winter plugs or Gizzmos to prevent water entry.
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Store accessories: Keep all removable parts in a dry, protected area.
5. Cover the Pool
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Install a winter pool cover: Use a solid or mesh cover that fits securely to keep out debris and sunlight, which can encourage algae growth.
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Use a cover pump: If using a solid cover, place a cover pump to remove standing water and prevent damage.
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Consider an air pillow: For above-ground pools, an air pillow under the cover helps distribute ice pressure and prevents cover damage.
Special Note: Hot Tub Owners
If you own a hot tub, don’t forget to check your SmartChlor cartridge for hot tubs before winter. Replace or maintain your SmartChlor cartridge for hot tubs as recommended to ensure clean, sanitized water throughout the colder months. Proper maintenance of your hot tub’s sanitation system is just as important as winterizing your pool equipment.
Final Tips
Double-check manufacturer instructions for your specific pool and equipment models.
Keep all chemicals and accessories out of reach of children and pets.
Schedule a professional inspection if you’re unsure about any step in the process.
Pools Plus More is here to help you protect your pool investment all year round. For more expert advice or to schedule a winterization service, contact our team today.