Winterize Your In-Ground Pool

When autumn approaches near Labor Day in the States, it’s time for pool owners to start thinking about winterization. Usually the pool is kept up and running through the holiday, but afterwards, it is time to close up shop. If you own an in-ground pool, there are some important steps to keep it clean and fresh for the long winter, and also to keep corrosion from setting in. The steps I will provide will also help with the expansion as the water freezes. Let’s get started.

The first thing you want to do is make sure that your chemical has all been used in the chemical feeder. If not, refer to the owner’s manual on how to remove chemical that has not been used. It’s much easier to let it drain through use, but this cannot always be done.

The chemical levels must be adjusted properly for the winter. This will protect the pool from corrosion and the build-up of scales. The pH level should be in the range of 7.2-7.4. Alkalinity should be from 80-120 parts/million. Calcium Hardness 175-250 parts/million and Chlorine 1-3 parts/million according to www.backyardcitypools.com .

Once the chemical balance is correct, you should add a winterizing agent. These are sold as a winter chemical kits and can be bought from any pool supply store. Follow the directions provided with the kit.

The water should now be drained from your pool to just below the skimmer and inlets or jets.

All extraneous equipment should be removed from the pool. This includes ladders. Dry the ladder and place somewhere indoors. Also, any opened but unused chemicals should be tightly sealed and kept in a cool, dry place for the winter.

Disconnect the pump and motor. The pump should be opened, drained, and cleaned before storing for the winter.

Remove the filter and drain the filter tank of all water and make sure all water is also drained from the hoses. The cartridge filter will also need to be cleaned and because it may not dry completely, it should be stored indoors. If your pool setup uses a sand filter, then throw out the sand and replace it in the spring when you open the pool back up.

If you have a heater, be sure to take apart the lines and drain them. If it is a gas heater, turn off the gas flow. If you your heater has a pilot light, make sure it is out.

Make sure you mechanically blow the air out of the system with an air compressor or shop vac blower. Any water left in the plumbing will freeze and permanently damage the system. Then plug the lines with winter plugs so no water enters the system.

Pour one gallon of pool water antifreeze into the openings for every 25 feet of drained line. This can be poured directly into all available openings.

The final step is to cover the pool. If the pool cover has a dark side, it should be placed down toward the bottom of the pool. Secure the cover with the cable and make sure it is tight. Use a winch if possible. If the cover uses water bags or tubes, fill them about �¾ full, but no more or damage could result from freezing.

By following these steps, your above ground pool will be safe, protected from the winter elements, and ready to go in the spring.