Step-by-Step Guide to Winterizing Your Pool

Winterizing your pool can be an easy task. If you can take a step-by-step approach, it can be done more efficiently. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Clean the Pool Thoroughly

The first step in winterizing a pool is to clean it well. To start cleaning, first remove all the pool accessories. Then you can skim the surface to remove leaves and debris, and then clean the bottom to pick up any dirt or particles. Don’t forget to brush down the pool walls to remove any algae or buildup. A clean pool before closing will help ensure a cleaner pool when you reopen it in the spring.

Step 2: Balance the Water Chemistry and Shock the Pool

The next step in winterizing your pool is to test the water and adjust your pool’s water chemistry. When you are adjusting the water chemistry, make sure the pH level, alkalinity, and calcium hardness are all within the recommended ranges.

• Alkalinity: 80–120 parts per million (ppm)
• Calcium hardness: 180–400 ppm
• Chlorine: 1–4 ppm
• pH: 7.2–7.8

To balance the pH and alkalinity, use a pH or alkalinity increaser or decreaser as needed to get the water balanced, and add a dose of pool shock to kill any lingering bacteria.

Step 3: Lower the Water Level

Once the pool is clean, you’ll need to lower the water level to prepare for winter. This is more important if you live in an area where the water freezes. If you have an inground pool, drain the water until it’s below the skimmer and return lines. For above-ground pools, lower the water to just below the skimmer. This step helps prevent freezing water from damaging your pool’s plumbing and structure.

Step 4: Drain and Protect Pool Equipment

After lowering the water, it’s time to drain your pool equipment. This is important so that water doesn’t freeze and expand causing damage. Start by draining the pool pump, filter, and pool heater to remove any remaining water. Use a blower or compressor to blow out the lines, ensuring no water is left inside. For added protection, pour pool antifreeze into the lines and cover the skimmer and return lines with expansion plugs or drain plugs.

Step 5: Install the Winter Cover

The final step is to cover your pool for the winter. If you have an above-ground
pool, place an air pillow in the center to prevent the cover from sagging. Then, secure the winter cover or safety cover over the pool, making sure it’s tightly fastened and won’t be blown off by wind. This cover will keep debris out and protect your pool from the elements until you’re ready to reopen it.