How to Winterize a Pool
After an exciting summer season of swimming and lounging, pool owners who live in an area where winter temperatures drop below freezing must winterize their pools to protect them during the offseason. Proper winterization is an essential step every pool owner must follow. However, it can be complex and difficult, especially for new pool owners. Our easy-to-understand and thorough guide will provide you with all the information you need to winterize your pool correctly. Whether this is your first season or you’ve been winterizing your pool for years and need a refresher, we’re here to help.
What Is Pool Winterization?
Pool winterization is the process of preparing your swimming pool for the sub-zero winter months. When water freezes, it expands, damaging your pool lining, plumbing, and equipment. By balancing water chemistry, cleaning the pool, lowering the water levels, and protecting the plumbing and equipment, you can prevent costly repairs while keeping the water as clean and clear as possible for opening weekend.
What Are the Benefits of Pool Winterization?
Taking the time to winterize your pool is essential for getting the most from your home’s pool. Winterization offers several significant benefits, including:
- Prevents Equipment Damage – When water freezes, it expands, causing your plumbing and equipment to crack. Draining the water is the most effective way to avoid damage.
- Protects the Pool Structure – Your vinyl lining can dry out and crack over the winter. If you have a fiberglass or concrete pool, it prevents cracks caused by ice pressure.
- Keeps Water Clean – Winterizing your pool prevents algae growth, meaning you’ll spend less time cleaning it once pool season begins.
- Saves Time and Money – Winterizing your pool saves you from expensive repairs and extensive cleaning costs when summer returns. A quick and easy spring opening is a direct result of a thorough fall closing.
What Do I Need to Winterize My Pool?
Preparing all your winterization equipment before you get started will ensure a smooth process. Here’s the basic equipment you’ll need for closing your pool:
- Pool Water Test Kit
- Winterizing Chemicals
- Pool Cover
- Pool Brush and Skimmer Net
- Pool Vacuum
- Air Compressor or Shop Vacuum
- Winterizing Plugs
- Pool Antifreeze
What Are the Steps for Pool Winterization?
Now that you have all the winterizing items, you can close your pool like a pro. Follow these steps to ensure your pool is correctly winterized:
- Clean Your Pool Thoroughly – Use your skimmer to remove all surface-level debris like leaves and sticks. Next, use a brush to scrub dirt stuck to the walls and floor. Finally, use your pool vacuum to remove as much dirt from the bottom of the pool as possible.
- Test and Balance the Water – Use your test kit to check the water chemistry. Adjust the pH (7.2-7.6), alkalinity (80-120ppm), and calcium hardness (180-220 ppm) levels to fall within the recommended ranges. Once balanced, add a dose of pool shock and allow it to circulate through the pool for several hours.
- Add Winterization Chemicals – Add a winter algaecide and a stain and scale prevention product. These chemicals will work through the winter to prevent algae growth and mineral buildup on your pool’s surfaces. Allow the pump to run for a few hours to distribute these chemicals evenly.
- Lower the Water Level – Next, lower the water levels below your pool’s plumbing. To lower the water level, turn off the pump and set the valve to “waste” or “drain” setting.
- Drain and Store Equipment – Drain all water from your pump, filter, heater, and chlorinator. Store the equipment in a warm, dry area such as a basement or garage if possible.
- Clear the Plumbing Lines – Though you’ve lowered the water levels, water can still be trapped in the plumbing. Use a shop vacuum or air compressor to clear the lines and plug them up to keep them dry throughout the offseason.
- Cover the Pool – You’ll want to install your pool cover. A secure pool cover will prevent debris and dirt from entering your pool so that it can be easily opened.
Prepare Your Pool for the Winter Season
If you live in an area where the temperature drops below freezing, winterization is essential for protecting your pool. If you’re still unsure about pool winterization, then contact Deep Blue Pool and Spas. As your local pool services expert, our knowledgeable and experienced team of certified pool professionals provides complete pool closing and winterization services in Salt Lake City, UT. We can ensure your pool is winterized and protected throughout the off-season. Schedule your service today.