As the colder months approach, properly winterizing your above-ground pool is key to protecting your investment and ensuring an easier opening in the spring. Taking a few careful steps now helps prevent damage from freezing water, debris buildup, and costly repairs.
Start by thoroughly cleaning your pool. Remove leaves, dirt, and any lingering debris with a skimmer and vacuum. Balancing your pool’s chemistry is the next step—adjust the pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness to recommended levels to prevent corrosion or scaling. Shock the water with chlorine to kill lingering bacteria, then add a winterizing algaecide to keep the pool clear throughout the off-season.
Once the water chemistry is balanced, lower the water level a few inches below the skimmer opening to avoid damage from ice expansion. Drain and store all hoses, ladders, pumps, and accessories in a dry location. Be sure to blow out or plug your return and skimmer lines to protect against freezing.
Finally, cover your pool with a durable winter pool cover. This helps block sunlight, reduce algae growth, and keep debris out. Secure the cover tightly with a cable and winch system or air pillows beneath to relieve pressure from snow and ice.
With these steps, your above-ground pool will be safe through winter, saving you time and effort when warmer weather returns. A little preparation now means sparkling, swim-ready water in spring.
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