How to Winterize an Intex Pool
Intex pools have become a popular swimming pool option because they are easy to set up and require very little maintenance. In addition, because they are not a permanent structure, they are also easy to dismantle and store at the end of the swimming season. However, if you live in a warm weather climate where temperatures do not dip below freezing for extended periods of time, you can easily winterize your Intex pool so it is ready for use the following spring. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Pool vacuum
- Garden hose
- Telescoping handle
- Skimmer net
- Air pump
- Pool shock
- Pool chemical test kit
- Pool cover
Instructions
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1
Attach a garden hose and telescoping handle to the vacuum head that comes with your Intex pool. Tie the debris bag to the opening on the top of the vacuum head. Place vacuum with hose and debris bag attached into pool and turn on water.
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2
Move the vacuum slowly across the bottom surface of the pool to remove all settled debris.
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3
Run the pool filter for several hours after you vacuum and before starting the rest of the winterizing process. This will remove any particles that might have been stirred up during the vacuuming process
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4
Skim the surface of the pool water with the skimmer net to remove any floating debris.
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5
Examine the top ring (if you have an Easy Set model) to make sure it it fully inflated. If it is not, use an air pump to inflate properly.
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6
Plug up the inlet and outlet holes with the stoppers that come with your Intex pool.
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7
Remove the filter hoses and skimmer basket from the inlet and outlet holes. This is accomplished by unscrewing the clamps around each hose and pulling them off the hole openings.
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8
Drain the filter completely and remove filter cartridge. Store in a safe place, such as a garage or basement, for the winter.
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9
Test the pool water with a pool test kit to ensure the chemical levels are high enough for the entire winter. The pH level should be 7.2 to 7.6 and the alkalinity 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm). The chlorine level should be at 3.0 for winter storage. If the chemical levels are too low, add a liquid shock treatment to the pool and retest the water after two to three hours.
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10
Put cover over pool and securely tie the drawstring rope around the pool cover.
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11
Dry the ladder and all pool accessories before storing for the winter.
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Tips & Warnings
If you live in a climate with a propensity for long spells below freezing, it is best to take your pool down for the winter. If the water freezes the ice could puncture the side of the pool and cause permanent damage.
