As the autumn chill sets in, pool owners often face a critical seasonal dilemma: do you have to empty above ground pool for winter? While draining an above ground pool might seem like the simplest solution, it is usually the worst option for protecting your investment. An empty pool is vulnerable to a host of destructive forces, including ground heave, structural damage, and weather extremes. Understanding the risks associated with complete draining is the first step in transitioning your pool safely into the off-season.
Why Draining an Above Ground Pool Is Usually a Bad Idea
The structural integrity of an above ground pool relies heavily on the water pressure inside counteracting the expansive force of the surrounding soil. When you remove that water, you remove the primary force holding the walls in place. This creates a significant risk of the walls collapsing or being pushed outward by groundwater, particularly in areas with high water tables or loose soil. This potential damage often far outweighs the perceived cleanliness benefits of a dry pool.
The Dangers of Ground Heave
Ground heave is a specific and serious threat to above ground pools left empty. If the soil beneath the pool bed becomes saturated during the winter, the ground can expand as the water freezes. Since the pool is empty and lacks the weight to hold it down, the pool shell can literally be lifted out of the ground. This misalignment can buckle walls, crack the liner, and render the pool unusable for the following season. Keeping the pool full helps stabilize the structure and resist this upward pressure.
Recommended Winterization Steps
Professional pool technicians universally recommend winterizing an above ground pool rather than emptying it. This process is designed to protect the equipment, liner, and structure from freezing damage while the pool is vacant. By keeping the water in the pool and treating it with specific chemicals, you create a balanced environment that minimizes the risk of algae, staining, and freeze-related deterioration.
- Lower the water level slightly below the skimmer line to prevent debris from accumulating there.
- Clean the pool thoroughly to remove any organic matter that can stain the liner.
- Balance the water chemistry to a neutral pH level to prevent corrosion or scaling.
- Add a winterizing chemical kit specifically formulated for closing an pool.
- Remove and store ladders, rails, and any accessories to prevent damage.
- Cover the pool tightly with a weatherproof cover to keep out rain and snow.
The Exception: When Draining Might Be Necessary
Although keeping the pool full is the standard practice, there are specific scenarios where an above ground pool must be drained. If you are undergoing major structural repairs, selling the home, or dealing with a severe leak, draining becomes a practical necessity. However, if you do choose to drain the pool, you must take immediate steps to protect the empty shell. This includes propping the walls from the outside or installing an inflation kit to an inflatable pool, which helps the structure resist the pressure of the surrounding earth.
Protecting Your Liner and Equipment
Leaving the water in the pool ensures that the liner remains pliable and seated correctly within the wall panels. A dry liner becomes brittle and prone to cracking when folded for storage or when subject to temperature fluctuations. Furthermore, the pump, filter, and heater are designed to be submerged. Draining the pool can cause these critical components to warp, crack, or suffer seal failure due to the stress of the dry winter conditions. Proper winterizing protects these mechanical elements, saving you the cost of replacement in the spring.
Ultimately, answering the question of do you have to empty above ground pool for winter requires a focus on preservation. The goal of winterization is not to create a spotless container, but to shield the pool from the damaging forces of freezing water, ice, and ground movement. By keeping the pool full and chemically balanced, secured with a sturdy cover, you are providing the strongest defense against the elements. This approach ensures that when warm weather returns, the renovation process is minimal and your pool is ready for use in weeks rather than days.
