How to winterize your above ground pool

Pools that are above ground have to be winterized every year. It is very important that you winterize the pool to allow a fast and uncomplicated opening in the spring. You do not want the above-ground pool to become dirty or to be damaged by freezing water. If you take a few simple steps to winterize the pool, you will not only protect your pool from harm, but will also ensure an easier time later on. You have invested a lot of money in your above ground pool, so take proper care of it through the winter. Here are the steps required to winterize your above-ground pool.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pool cover
• Air pillow
• Skimmer guard
• Pool chemicals
• Winterizing chemical kit

1. Balance your pool water and pack things away. Make sure the water in your above ground pool is chemically balanced. You should also remove all pool accessories, such as ladders, pool toys, slides, hand skimmer, rails, brushes and any other things. Store these items in a cool dry place.

2. Vacuum one last time and add winterize chemicals. Be sure to clean the inside walls of the pool with a brush and vacuum it thoroughly. Once the pool is clean, add special formulated winterizing chemicals to protect the water through the winter.

3. Adjust water level of your above-ground pool. Lower the water level to just below the skimmer. You do not want to have any water enter the skimmer during the winter. You may use a “skimmer guard” in the skimmer instead of lowering the water level. This specially made device goes inside the skimmer and will prevent the frozen water from damaging it. You could also use a specifically designed dam-like object that fits over the end of the skimmer, stopping any water from entering it.

4. Ready the pump and motor and take apart the filters. Disconnect the pump and motor from the bottom of the pool filter and drain all water from it. You should dismantle the pool filters; completely drain all hoses of any water, remove filters and totally clean all of these areas. This is usually a great time to throw out old filters and start with new ones in the spring. If possible, bring any of these items indoors.

5. Pack it up for the winter. Insert air pillows (or other floating devices) and place the cover on the pool. Secure the cover with the pillow centered in the pool.

Tips & Warnings

• It is very important to not allow winterizing chemicals to damage your above-ground pool. You can prevent this by following all of the instructions given. It is crucial to properly mix and distribute the winterize chemicals into your above-ground pool.