How to Open an Above Ground Pool With Algae in the Winter

Keep your above ground pool water clear by performing the proper opening procedure.

Above ground swimming pools are typically closed during the winter and opened during the summer. Sometimes however, pools must be opened in the colder months. Opening an above ground pool in the winter is similar to the summer opening process. Winterizing plugs are removed, the water is filled to normal levels, and the pool is shocked and vacuumed. The presence of algae in the pool may require the shocking and vacuuming process to be repeated until the water is clean.

Things You'll Need

• Water hose
• Shock
• Vacuuming equipment

Instructions

1. Pull the cover off of the pool structure. Take any plugs out of the return lines and skimmer if one is present.

2. Fill the pool with water until the water level rises to the skimmer. If the pool is extremely green and cloudy, vacuum what you can out of the pool with vacuuming equipment before adding water.

3. Shock the pool with the appropriate amount of chlorine or calcium based shock. Typically one pound of shock is used per 10,000 gallons of water held in the pool.

4. Wait six hours for the shock treatment to take effect. Vacuum the pool bottom with vacuuming equipment. Be sure to vacuum up all of the debris settled on the pool bottom.

5. Repeat the shock and vacuum process until the pool water is clear. Run your pool at least 13 hours a day to keep the plumbing from freezing due to cold weather.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not run your pool until the water level is raised or the motor may burn up due to sucking air.

References

• Pool Center: Spring Opening