How to Winterize an Above Ground Pool

By Greg Jarvis | Last Updated: September 7, 2022

Winterizing your above-ground pool simply means drying out of the pipes and removing the vital equipment. If you fail to do this, the freezing temperatures will have a harmful effect on the pump, pipes, and filter, which makes it unclean and unfit for use.

Closing down the pool is not the solution. It would turn greenish and could require a total makeover to bring it back to shape. Also, you might need to spend on replacing worn-out parts that could ruin it by the algae attack. So the best solution is by winterizing it. This guide will provide a step-by-step method on how to winterize an above-ground pool.

What You Need:

  • Swimming pool winterizing chemical kit
  • Pool cover
  • Pool vacuum

How to Winterize an Above Ground Pool

The process should be done seven to eight days before the winter comes. Most fundamentally, it can be done step-by-step process to avoid any complications.

Balance the Pool Water

As a pool owner, you need to make sure that the water is clean and safe for swimmers. Keeping water chemistry in balance is very vital. This could play a crucial role in helping the winterizing chemicals work to keep the water stable. Make sure that the water pH is at the right level around 7.4, so you can continue with the process of winterizing.

Properly Clean the Pool

After ensuring that the pool water is balanced, it is time to clean your pool. It is essential that no residue is left in stagnant water, or else it would be hard for you to get rid of the residue. In spite of this, if there is still residue left, find a biodegradable cleaner to help you get rid of this residue. You can use the pool vacuum to remove large debris. If you can, you can use both methods to remove all the dirt in your pool.

Use the Proper Chemical Kit

The essential step in winterizing the pool is to establish the right balance of chemicals. If something went wrong, the water could get highly contaminated due to significant changes in temperature. Thus, using an oxidizer, a sequestering agent, or an algaecide can help you prevent the formation of algae as well as other micro-organisms. After adding the chemicals, allow the pool pump to circulate the chemicals. The winterizing chemical kit includes complete instructions on how to use it.

Maintain the Low Level of Water

After balancing the pH and chemicals of your pool water, drain your pool water level at 6 inches below the skimmer line. Some pool owners would drain the water completely. But it is advised not to do so, or the pool will get damage easily.

Preparing the Hardware

Clean the cartridges thoroughly as well as the sand filter if you are using one. Clean and dry the pool pump and hose and keep them in a dry and safe place. To do this, turn off the power supply and deactivate any kind of plumbing. The shop vacuum can easily blow out the water. The water will be evaporated completely, do not forget to refasten plumbing.

The Chlorine Generator Should be in Place

For those with a saltwater pool system, the winter setting should be activated for the chlorine generator. If it is not applicable, you should get rid of the electrolytic cell and preserved it until the pool is ready to be used again.

Take Out All Pool Accessories

Remove all the accessories in the pool, such as a pool heater. These accessories might get damaged by the harshest winter conditions. For example, there are ladders, toys, and several accessories that are stored in the pool. So, clean them all before keeping them in the store safely.

Put an Air Pillow

Some pool owners that ignore this step, but experts suggest following this step for convenience. If you place an air pillow, it will float at the center of the pool and would reduce the stress forced by the cold water. Also, it prevents the pool structure from getting damaged.

Avail of the Above Ground Pool Cover

The last step of winterizing the pool is by using an above-ground pool cover to deal with extreme temperatures and strong winds. It will shield the pool from the changes in temperature for a long time.

Conclusion

Winterizing is one of the best ways to treat an above-ground pool to keep it clean and safe to use. Be careful in keeping the alkalinity off your pool at the right level. If you are able to maintain it, you do not have to worry about getting your pool drained later. Simply follow the steps above about winterizing, and everything will look good in the future.

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