As the autumn leaves start to fall and the temperatures begin to drop, it’s time to start thinking about winterizing your inground pool. Winterizing your pool properly is essential to protect it from damage caused by freezing temperatures and ice. Failing to do so can lead to costly repairs or even the need to replace your pool. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you winterize your inground pool and keep it in pristine condition until spring.
Before you begin the winterization process, it’s important to gather all the necessary supplies. You will need a pool cover, winterizing chemicals, a pool pump, a leaf skimmer, a vacuum cleaner, and a brush. Once you have all your supplies, you can start the process of winterizing your pool.
The first step is to clean your pool thoroughly. This includes removing all leaves, debris, and other foreign objects from the pool. You should also vacuum the pool to remove any dirt or sediment that has settled on the bottom. Once the pool is clean, you can add winterizing chemicals to the water. These chemicals help to prevent the water from freezing and damaging your pool. Follow the instructions on the chemical packaging carefully to ensure that you are using the correct amount. After you have added the winterizing chemicals, you can cover the pool with a pool cover. The pool cover will help to keep the water clean and free of debris during the winter months. Make sure that the pool cover is securely fastened to prevent it from blowing off in high winds.
Emptying the Water
Draining your pool for the winter is crucial to prevent damage from freezing water and ice expansion. To ensure proper drainage, follow these detailed steps:
1. **Lower the Water Level:**
1. Shut off your pool pump and filter system.
2. Open the main drain plug at the bottom of the pool.
3. Remove the return line caps to allow air to enter the system and speed up draining.
4. Use a submersible pump or wet/dry vacuum to remove any remaining water from the shallow end, steps, and skimmer.
2. **Disconnect and Drain Equipment:**
1. Disconnect all hoses, filters, and other pool equipment.
2. Drain any water from the filter, pump, and heater to prevent freezing and damage.
3. **Check for Hidden Water:**
1. Inspect the pool thoroughly for any hidden pockets of water, such as in lights, fountains, or cleaner lines.
2. Use a towel or sponge to soak up any remaining water.
| Water Source | Drainage Method |
|---|---|
| Main Drain | Open drain plug, remove return line caps |
| Skimmer | Use submersible pump |
| Shallow End | Use submersible pump or wet/dry vacuum |
| Filter | Disconnect and drain |
| Pump | Disconnect and drain |
| Heater | Disconnect and drain |
Adding Stabilizers
Cyanuric acid, also known as stabilizer or conditioner, is a chemical that protects chlorine from the sun’s UV rays. It helps to keep chlorine levels stable and prevent the pool from losing chlorine too quickly. When closing your pool for the winter, it is important to add stabilizer to the water to ensure that the chlorine you add during the winterization process will be effective.
To add stabilizer to your pool, follow these steps:
1. Calculate the amount of stabilizer you need. You will need to add enough stabilizer to raise the cyanuric acid level to between 30 and 50 ppm. To calculate the amount of stabilizer you need, use the following formula:
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Amount of stabilizer needed (pounds) = (Desired cyanuric acid level (ppm) – Current cyanuric acid level (ppm)) x Pool volume (gallons) / 10,000
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2. Add the stabilizer to the pool. You can add stabilizer in granular or liquid form. If you are using granular stabilizer, dissolve it in a bucket of water before adding it to the pool. If you are using liquid stabilizer, add it directly to the pool.
3. Run the pump for 24 hours. This will help to circulate the stabilizer throughout the pool and ensure that it is evenly distributed.
Here is a table summarizing the steps for adding stabilizer to your pool:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Calculate the amount of stabilizer you need. |
| 2 | Add the stabilizer to the pool. |
| 3 | Run the pump for 24 hours. |
Covering the Pool
Covering your inground pool is essential for protecting it from winter elements. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Choosing a Pool Cover
Select a cover that fits snugly over the pool and is UV-resistant. There are two main types of covers:
- Solid covers: Provide complete darkness, preventing algae growth but requiring more effort to remove.
- Mesh covers: Allow rainwater and debris to pass through, making them easier to handle but requiring more maintenance.
Preparing the Pool for Covering
- Remove debris and leaves from the water and pool deck.
- Lower the water level to about 4-6 inches below the coping.
- Circulate the pool water for 24 hours to distribute chemicals evenly.
- Add winterizing chemicals according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Installing the Pool Cover
- If using a safety cover, attach the anchor straps to the deck.
- Spread the cover over the pool, aligning it with the edge.
- Use water bags or other weights to secure the cover in place around the perimeter.
- For mesh covers, tie down all corners to prevent wind from lifting the cover.
Additional Tips:
- Use a cover pump to remove any accumulated water on top of the cover.
- For solid covers, brush off any snow to prevent stretching and damage.
- Check the cover regularly for any tears or damage and repair as needed.
| Cover Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Solid Cover | Complete darkness prevents algae growth | Heavy and difficult to remove |
| Mesh Cover | Easier to handle than solid covers | Allows debris to pass through, requiring more maintenance |
Securing the Safety Cover
Once the cover is in place, it’s crucial to secure it properly to prevent it from being blown away by wind or lifted off by accidental contact. Follow these steps to ensure a secure cover installation:
1. **Install Safety Straps:** Position the safety straps around the pool perimeter, connecting them to the cover’s grommets. Tighten the straps securely, ensuring they hold the cover firmly in place.
2. **Use Pool Cover Weights:** Place evenly spaced weights along the edge of the cover. They provide additional weight to prevent the cover from shifting or floating up.
3. **Anchor the Cover with Water Bags:** Fill water bags and place them around the perimeter of the pool. The weight of the water helps keep the cover secure.
| Safety Cover Installation Timeline |
|---|
| 3-4 weeks prior to the first expected freeze: Prepare the water and remove pool equipment. |
| 1-2 weeks before the first frost: Clean the pool, balance the chemistry, and shock the water. |
| Just before the first freeze: Winterize the pump and filter system, and install the safety cover. |
Winterizing the Pump and Filter
Properly winterizing your pool pump and filter is essential to prevent damage from freezing temperatures. Follow these steps to ensure your equipment is protected:
1. Turn Off the Power
Cut off electricity to the pump and filter at the circuit breaker or fuse box.
2. Drain the Pump and Filter
Disconnect the electrical connections and remove the drain plug on the pump. Allow all water to drain out.
3. Remove the Filter Cartridge
If your filter uses a cartridge, remove it and clean it thoroughly. Allow the cartridge to dry completely before storing it.
4. Clean the Filter Tank
Use a filter cleaner to remove any debris or buildup from the filter tank. Rinse the tank thoroughly with water.
5. Blow Out the Lines
Connect a leaf blower to the filter drain or pressure side. Run the blower for several minutes to remove any remaining water from the lines.
6. Lubricate the Pump Seal
Apply a few drops of silicone lubricant to the pump seal to prevent it from freezing and cracking. To lubricate the pump seal:
- Locate the pump seal, which is usually located at the end of the shaft.
- Apply a few drops of silicone lubricant to the seal.
- Turn the pump by hand to distribute the lubricant.
7. Cover the Pump and Filter
To protect the pump and filter from the elements, cover them with a tarp or a piece of plastic.
8. Store the Filter Cartridge
If you removed the filter cartridge, store it in a dry place. Wrap the cartridge in plastic to prevent moisture from accumulating.
Cleaning the Pool Deck
Before winterizing your inground pool, it’s crucial to thoroughly clean the deck. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure a pristine deck for next season:
1. Sweep and Rinse
Remove loose dirt, debris, and leaves using a broom or leaf blower. Rinse the deck thoroughly with a garden hose or pressure washer at a low setting.
2. Remove Algae and Mold
Algae and mold can accumulate on the deck’s surface, especially in shaded areas. Apply a commercial deck cleaner specifically formulated for these contaminants and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Clean Grout
Use a grout cleaner to remove dirt and discoloration between pavers or tiles. Apply the cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions and scrub with a brush.
4. Remove Rust Stains
Rust stains from furniture or tools can be removed using a commercial rust remover. Apply the remover and allow it to sit for the recommended time before scrubbing and rinsing.
5. Clean Furniture
Remove all furniture and accessories from the deck and clean them separately. Use mild soap and water or a dedicated furniture cleaner.
6. Inspect and Repair
Thoroughly inspect the deck for any loose boards, nails, or cracks. Repair or replace any damaged areas to prevent further damage during winter.
7. Seal the Deck
Once the deck is clean and dry, apply a deck sealant to protect it from moisture and UV damage. Choose a sealant specifically designed for the material of your deck.
8. Detailed Cleaning
For a deeper clean, consider using a deck cleaner with a powerful formula that removes tough stains, dirt, and grime. Here’s a step-by-step guide to detailed cleaning:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Apply the deck cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions. |
| 2 | Let the cleaner sit for the recommended time, allowing it to penetrate and dissolve the dirt. |
| 3 | Scrub the deck with a stiff bristle brush, paying attention to areas with stubborn stains. |
| 4 | Rinse the deck thoroughly with a pressure washer or garden hose. |
| 5 | Allow the deck to dry completely before sealing or using it. |
Inspecting and Maintaining the Liner
Assessing Liner Condition
Thoroughly inspect the liner for any tears, punctures, or wrinkles. Small tears can be repaired using a vinyl repair kit, while larger tears or punctures may require professional attention. Wrinkles can be smoothed out by adjusting the water level or using a liner lock.
Cleaning and Preserving the Liner
Use a mild cleaning solution to remove dirt and debris from the liner. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers or harsh chemicals that could damage the vinyl. After cleaning, apply a vinyl liner protectant to help preserve its condition and prevent fading.
Draining Excess Water
Drain any excess water above the winter water level. Excess water can freeze and expand, causing damage to the liner and pool shell. The ideal winter water level is about 18-24 inches below the top of the pool.
Winter Water Level Guide
| Pool Size | Water Level Below Top |
|---|---|
| Up to 15,000 gallons | 18 inches |
| 15,000 – 25,000 gallons | 20 inches |
| Over 25,000 gallons | 24 inches |
How to Winterize an Inground Pool
As the weather starts to cool down, it’s important to start thinking about winterizing your inground pool. Winterizing your pool properly will help to protect it from the elements and prevent damage. Here are the steps on how to winterize an inground pool:
- Clean the pool. Remove any leaves, debris, or other dirt from the pool. You can use a pool vacuum or a skimmer to clean the pool.
- Lower the water level. The water level should be lowered to about 6 inches below the skimmer. This will help to prevent the water from freezing and expanding, which could damage the pool.
- Add pool antifreeze. Pool antifreeze helps to prevent the water from freezing. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding pool antifreeze.
- Close the pool pump and filter. Turn off the power to the pool pump and filter. Then, drain the water from the pump and filter.
- Cover the pool. Use a winter pool cover to cover the pool. The cover should be securely fastened to the pool deck or coping.
