We all love the beauty of winter, but winterizing our above-ground pool? Not as much! Luckily, we’ve decided to make the process as quick and painless as possible with our easy winterizing guide. We’ll advise you on how to keep your above-ground pool protected so it can be ready for another summer of refreshing fun – your pool will thank you!
Region Drops Below 32°F (0°C): Going from Splash to Stash!
If you live in a region where the temperature drops below 32°F (0°C), the best option is to drain, pack up and store your pool. The first essential step is to drain your pool and dry your pool liner completely. A thorough wipe down with a clean cloth will stop pesky mold or mildew growth that comes from water. For extra help, sprinkle talcum powder generously over the liner to absorb excess moisture. The last thing you want is a creased pool, so remember to fold the pool liner evenly and neatly to retain its shape. If you still have the original box or a box that fits, you can store the liner inside. Alternatively, a large secure bag will do the trick.
Live in a Warmer Climate? Here are 5 Pro Tips!
If you live in a warmer climate, use these 5 pro winterizing tips.
#1 – Pool Prep
Prep your above-ground pool for winterizing by cleaning your pool water. This is where a deluxe maintenance kit comes in handy. You can use a skimmer net to remove any debris or leaves from the surface and vacuum the pool floor and sides. Once the water is sparkling, you’re ready for the next tip.
#2 – Accessory-Free Zone
After a busy summer keeping your pool debris-free, it’s time for your faithful filter pump and its parts to go on a well-deserved sabbatical. If your pool has a skimmer or any accessories attached to the threaded strainer connector, remove them and dry them. Clean and drain the pool pump, filter housing, and hoses. Then you can remove and replace the old filter cartridge with a new one for next season. After that, remove any inlet and outlet fittings and plug them up.
If you have a pool ladder, it’s time for it to go into storage. Remove the ladder from your pool and make sure it’s cleaned and dried. The ladder, hoses, pool pump and pump parts should be kept indoors and stored in a dry area with temperatures between 0°C (32°F) and 40°C (104°F). A helpful hint– use a labelled bag or container to store these items together so you can find them easily again next summer.
#3 – Perfect Pool Health
Now the winter chemicals take center stage. These are a key part in maintaining your pool’s health and cleanliness by preventing algae growth, scale and stains. They also balance pH levels, and ensure proper sanitation and oxidation throughout the winter. The following are the most common chemicals used by above ground pool owners. Before any purchase, consult your local pool professional for expert advice.
- pH Balancers: Adjust the pH level of the pool water to the recommended range (7.4 to 7.6) using pH increaser or pH reducer chemicals. This helps maintain water balance and should prevent corrosion or scaling.
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Chlorine or Non-Chlorine Shock & Algaecide: A dose of chlorine or non-chlorine shock can sanitize the water and prevent algae growth. A chlorine dispenser is the ideal hassle-free way to continually sanitize the water during winter so you don’t have to. For algaecide, choose a winter-specific brand designed for colder temperatures.
- Winter Stain and Scale Preventer: This works to prevent the formation of stains and scale build-up on the pool walls and surfaces.
#4 – Cozy Cover Hibernation
Keep your pool cozy with a pool cover! This is a must to protect water quality and stop debris from getting in. The pool cover should properly match the size and shape of your pool and you should be able to tighten it securely all around the pool rim for a snug fit. Using air pillows and supports underneath can also help if you think there is a chance the cover will freeze to the water.
#5 – Power Down
Lastly, and most importantly, it’s time to switch the power off. The GFCI outlet on the outlet body and the main circuit break switch to the outlet should be shut off. Any water flow to the pool should also be shut off.
Now that the winterizing is all done, it’s time to reward yourself with a tasty beverage and put your feet up. You deserve it! As you get ready to relax, just know that when summer comes around again, future you will be thanking past you for making such a smart choice for your pool.
