Winterizing your in-ground swimming pool can result in many benefits.
Not only can it help save time and money when opening in the spring, but it can also reduce, if not eliminate, additional electrical, chemical, and cleaning costs.
Winterizing your in-ground swimming pool can also help protect equipment and plumping from any freeze damage.
To get your in-ground pool ready for winter, follow the 5 simple steps below.
1. TEST & PREPARE THE WATER
It’s very important that you test and balance the water before you begin to close down your pool. Winterizing a pool with balanced water can help protect from corrosion and scale build-up.
You should always test and balance the following:
- pH
- Total alkalinity
- Chlorine
- Calcium hardness
About two days before you plan to close down your pool for the winter, we recommend shocking the water or using a winterizing kit. Both should work just fine, it all comes down to personal preference and what works best for your pool. If you’re unsure, speak to the experts at your local pool store.
2. VACUUM AND CLEAN
Before closing down your pool for the winter, you need to remove any remaining dirt and debris from the water. Connect your pool vacuum, roll up your sleeves, and let the work begin!
Start by removing your pool ladder and steps so that you can access all areas of the pool. Vacuum the floor and walls, then use a net to remove any leaves or other debris floating around in the water. If there is a build-up of dirt along the waterline, we recommend washing the walls down with a rag and the right water care products.
Here at Van Dorn Pools & Spas, we have a wide selection of high-quality water care products for sale.
Next, empty any debris from the pump basket and set the valve to “sand filter” to backwash, then turn on the pump. Run your backwash hose to an inconspicuous place of your backyard that sits on lower ground and allow it to drain for about 15-20 minutes.
3. SKIMMER, PUMP & FILTER
- Once the water level drops below the skimmer, you can shut down the filter and then remove the chlorinator.
- We recommend placing a skimmer guard on the skimmer for optimal protection.
- Next, remove the drain plugs from the pump and drain any excess water so it doesn’t freeze and damage the parts over the winter.
- For safekeeping, you can store the drain plugs and the sight glass in the basket over the winter.
- For the pressure gage, we recommend keeping it in the garage or house, so it doesn’t freeze.
- Then, open the drain for the filter and release any water.
- Lastly, pour anti-freeze into the suction line and insert a product and/or pool noodle to absorb any pressure from the ice.
4. RETURN LINES
Now it’s time to blow out the return lines. Turn your filter’s valve into a closed position. Using an air compressor, blow compressed air into the chlorine fitting. For safer operation, have a friend help you operate a compressor.
5. COVER
Finally, the water is treated, and the pool is prepared for a long, cold winter. All that’s left to do is cover and store away for the next couple of months.
With some help from a friend, unroll your pool cover over the in-ground swimming pool and center it as best you can.
Fill your water bags about ¾ of the way and place them around your pool, holding down the cover and securing it into place.
Lastly, place a pump on the cover to minimize standing water.
SWIMMING POOL SERVICE IN MARYLAND & PENNSYLVANIA
For more information about winterizing your in-ground swimming pool and getting your backyard ready for the colder months, visit our experts at Van Dorn Pools & Spas.
We have a wide selection of accessories, tools, and water care products for sale that can help you with your swimming pool maintenance endeavors.
If you’re looking for swimming pool service in Pennsylvania or Maryland, get in touch with our team of expert technicians today.