Winterizing an Above Ground Pool: A Step-by-Step Guide
Winterizing an above ground pool is a crucial process to ensure the longevity and safety of the pool during the off-season. If not done properly, water can freeze inside the pipes, causing damage to the pool's piping system. In addition, debris and dirt can accumulate at the bottom of the pool, creating an environment for algae growth and bacterial contamination. Therefore, it is essential to follow a step-by-step approach to winterize your above ground pool effectively.
Pre-Winterization Preparation
Before winterizing your above ground pool, it is essential to prepare the pool for the process. This includes cleaning the pool floor, walls, and skimmer, as well as removing any pool accessories like ladders, handrails, and diving boards. It is also crucial to inspect the pool's plumbing system, checking for any leaks or damage that may have occurred during the swimming season.
Closing the Pump and Filter
When shutting down the pump, ensure that you remove any screws, clips, or other fasteners that secure the pump in place. This will make it easier to inspect and clean the pump's filter baskets and later store them for the winter. Next, clean the pump's filter baskets by removing any debris or dirt and rinse them thoroughly with a hose. Finally, winterize the pump by draining any remaining water from the system and covering it with a winterizing kit or a breathable pool cover.
Similarly, when closing the filter, make sure to clean the filter's sand or cartridge and rinse it thoroughly with a hose. If your filter is not self-cleaning, you may need to empty the filter's sand or cartridge and store it for the winter. Close the filter by setting it to its winterizing position, or by taking it off and storing it in an area where it will not get damaged by snow or ice.
Blowing Out the Pipes
Draining the Pool Water
To drain the pool water, you can use a pool drain or a submersible pump. Be sure to place the drain or pump at the lowest point of the pool to ensure all water is drained out. If you choose to use a submersible pump, make sure it's placed in the skimmer and don't forget to attach the drainage hose to the drain or pump. Once the water is drained, you can let the pipes drain by turning off the pump and waiting for several hours to allow any remaining water to trickle out.
Winterizing the Skimmer and Filter System
We have covered the closing of the pump and filter, but let's also go into the importance of closing the skimmer. Open the skimmer basket, located on the side of the above ground pool, to allow any remaining water to drain out. Attach a winterizing kit to the skimmer to ensure all remaining water is removed, preventing damage during winter and aiding in the spring opening process. Next remove the skimmer itself, cleaning it out to remove dirt and debris. If your model allows it, attach a cover to keep dirt and debris from your skimmer. Repeat this same process for other components such as the return jets and main drain.
Removing and Storing Pool Accessories
Once the pump, filter, and skimmer are winterized, it's time to remove any pool accessories such as ladders, handrails, and diving boards. Clean these accessories to remove any dirt or debris and store them in a dry, protected area away from the pool. This will prevent any damage or corrosion from occurring during the off-season.
Final Inspection
Finally, perform a final inspection of the pool and its equipment to ensure everything is properly winterized and ready for the off-season. This includes checking for any remaining water in the pipes or equipment, verifying that the pool's cover is securely in place, and inspecting the pool's fence and gate to ensure they are secure and functional. By following these steps, you can ensure your above ground pool is properly winterized and ready for the next swimming season.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
List of potential winterization mistakes, including
- Insufficiently winterizing the pool pump and filter
- Leaving water in the pipes or equipment
- Not closing the skimmer properly
- Not removing and storing pool accessories
- Not inspecting the pool and its equipment thoroughly
