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Protect Your Pool This Winter

 

A properly winterized pool makes opening it in the spring easier, helps prevent costly repairs, and protects your pool and equipment from freezing temperatures. Taking a little time to close your pool correctly can save hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars in maintenance and repairs.

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Whether you have an above-ground or in-ground pool, following this checklist will help keep your pool protected all winter long. If you're unsure about any step, don't hesitate to contact a local pool professional.

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Winter Pool Closing Checklist

✓ Clean Your Pool Thoroughly

  • Remove leaves, bugs, and debris.

  • Brush the walls, steps, and floor.

  • Vacuum the entire pool.

  • Empty skimmer and pump baskets.

 

✓ Test & Balance the Water

Properly balanced water helps prevent stains, algae, and scale buildup during the winter.

Recommended ranges:

  • pH: 7.2–7.6

  • Total Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm

  • Calcium Hardness: 200–400 ppm

  • Free Chlorine: 1–3 ppm

 

✓ Shock the Pool

Add a quality pool shock according to the manufacturer's directions. Allow the pump to circulate the water for 24 hours before covering the pool.

 

✓ Add Winter Pool Chemicals

Consider using:

  • Winterizing algaecide

  • Stain and scale preventer

  • Pool enzyme treatment (optional)

Follow all product directions carefully.

 

✓ Lower the Water Level (If Recommended)

Depending on your pool type and cover:

  • Lower the water below the skimmer or return jets if recommended by your pool manufacturer.

  • Do not completely drain your pool unless specifically instructed by a professional.

 

✓ Drain & Protect Pool Equipment

  • Drain the pump, filter, heater, chlorinator, and any other equipment.

  • Remove drain plugs and store them in a safe place.

  • Blow water out of plumbing lines if required.

  • Add pool-grade antifreeze to plumbing lines if recommended.

 

✓ Install Winter Plugs

Install expansion plugs or threaded winter plugs in return lines and skimmers where appropriate.

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✓ Remove Pool Accessories

Store items indoors whenever possible:

  • Ladders

  • Handrails

  • Diving boards (if removable)

  • Pool toys

  • Solar covers

  • Automatic cleaners

 

✓ Install Your Winter Cover

  • Secure the cover tightly.

  • Remove excess water and debris throughout the winter.

  • Check straps, springs, anchors, or cables periodically.

 

✓ Check on Your Pool During the Winter

Even after closing:

  • Remove heavy snow and debris from the cover.

  • Pump standing water off the cover.

  • Inspect the cover after storms.

  • Ensure the cover remains secure throughout the season.

 

A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way...

Closing your pool correctly helps prevent algae growth, frozen plumbing, equipment damage, and unnecessary repairs. Taking these simple steps now means you'll spend less time cleaning and more time swimming when warmer weather returns.

From your friends at FillPools.com, we wish you a safe winter and look forward to helping you refill your pool next season!

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