Winterizing an above ground pool is an important step to ensure that its equipment is protected from ice damage and that its water quality is maintained. Having it done correctly will save you time and money in the future.
Whether you're new to the pool industry or have been swimming in it for a long time, winterizing your above ground pool can be very simple.
WINTERIZING ABOVE GROUND POOLS FOR FREEZING CONDITIONS
If you live in a climate where freezing temperatures occur, these steps will help you close your above ground pool at the end of the year.
1. Manage Phosphate Levels
One week before closing the pool, add Pool Magic Plus PHOSfree to the skimmer. It will keep the water at a steady 14 oz for every 10,000 gallons. Follow product label instructions.
2. Skim, Brush, and Vacuum the Pool
It's important to keep your above-ground pool clean before you close it. This includes removing leaves and other debris from the pool.
3. Prevent Stains and Scaling
To prevent staining on your water, add various products to the water. These will help remove any stains quickly and effectively.
If you purchased a Pool Closing Kit, then you may want to add some of these products to your kit: Scale Pill or Metalfree. Follow the instructions on the label.
4. Test and Balance the Pool Water
Make sure the water has the proper Total Alkalinity, pH level, and calcium hardness levels. These levels should be within ranges that are suitable for different types of primary sanitizers.
After addressing the Total Alkalinity, adjust the pH to 7.4 to 7.6. Then, make sure the Calcium Hardness is at or around 200 to 400 ppm.
For the most accurate analysis of water chemistry, consult with a licensed technician. A free water test is typically the best way to find out if your pool's water quality is good.
5. Prevent Algae Growth
When it comes to keeping your pool clean, use the right products. There are various products on the market that can help prevent algae from forming and damaging your pool.
6. Add Non-Chlorine Shock
For example, Leslie's Fresh 'N Clear is a product that will shock the pool with up to two pounds of product per 10,000 gallons.
7. Raise Chlorine Level
For optimal chlorine levels, use Leslie's Chlor Brite. Mix 1 oz. of Chlor Brite in 10,000 gallons of water. Run the pool pump for several hours to get the chlorine levels right.
8. Clean the Pool Filter
After your pump has been running for several hours, its time to clean the filter. This step is usually done by removing the filter cartridges.
9. Add WinterPill
WinterPills are great for keeping your pool closed during the winter season. Just make sure to use the correct instructions to secure the pill in the water.
Power off all equipment when closing your above ground pool.
10. Turn Off the Power
You're done with using the pool equipment. Now, turn off the breaker and remove the trippers. Also, make sure that the pump is set to stop working.
11. Remove Inlet Fitting
Position the inlet or outlet on the inside pool wall. This is usually located near the water line.
12. Lower the Pool Water Level
Winterizing your above-ground pool can help lower the water level below the skimmer. This method works by draining the water using a hose attachment.
13. Drain Pool Equipment and Hoses
Drain the plugs from the following components.
Drain the filter hoses and the pool return fitting. Also, make sure the chlorine feeder is disconnected.
14. Store Pool Equipment
Store the equipment and hoses in a non-freezing location.
15. Remove and Store Non-Permanent Fixtures
All non-permanent items from the pool, such as toys, ladders, and floats, must be removed.
16. Inflate Air Pillow
Inflate or tie air pillows to an object. An average size pool requires around 2 air pillows.
17. Apply Winter Pool Cover
Use a winter cover to secure your pool. This product is equipped with a winch and cable to secure it.
A leaf net can be added to the top of a winter cover to help keep the leaves from falling on the ground. This method works for areas with a lot of trees.
WINTERIZING ABOVE GROUND POOLS FOR NON-FREEZING CONDITIONS
Although temperatures can still fall below freezing in certain areas, it's not ideal to close the pool.
Instead of draining the pool, fill it up to the top. Doing this will allow the water to drain away, which is ideal for minimizing overflow.
Set the timer to run the pump for about 4 hours a day during the winter. If the forecast is for freezing temperatures, run the pump until the risk of damage has passed.
Winter is a great time to maintain a pool. It's also a great time to close it down if you're not feeling like it.
If you have any other questions about pool and spa products please do let us know - we are here to help!