How To Winterize Your Home Swimming Pool

As the temperature drops and poolside lounging becomes a distant summer memory, it’s time to prepare your swimming pool for winter. Proper winterization prevents damage from freezing, keeps your water clean, and makes reopening in spring a breeze.

When to Winterize
Start the process when temperatures consistently fall below 65°F (18°C). Waiting too long risks freezing damage, while closing too early can lead to algae growth.

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Supplies You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these essentials:

• Pool skimmer net, brush, and vacuum
• Water testing kit
• Winterizing chemical kit (shock, algaecide, pH/alkalinity adjusters)
• Expansion plugs for return jets
• Air compressor or shop vac (for blowing out lines)
• Pool cover (winter or safety)
• Submersible pump (for lowering water level)
• Air pillow (for above-ground pools)

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Step-by-Step Guide

1. Remove Accessories
   Take out ladders, skimmer baskets, solar covers, and toys. Clean and store them in a dry place.
2. Deep Clean the Pool
   Skim debris, vacuum the bottom, and scrub walls and floor to prevent algae and staining.
3. Test and Balance Water Chemistry
   Ensure levels are slightly above normal to last through winter:

• pH: 7.4–7.6
• Alkalinity: 80–140 ppm
• Calcium hardness: 200–400 ppm
• Chlorine: 1–3 ppm

1. Add Winterizing Chemicals
   Use a winter chemical kit or individual treatments:

• Shock the pool
• Add algaecide
• Use a metal sequestrant if needed⁽²⁾

1. Lower the Water Level
   Drain water below the skimmer and return lines to prevent freezing damage. Use a submersible pump for control.
2. Blow Out and Plug Lines
   Use an air compressor or shop vac to blow out water from plumbing lines. Install expansion plugs to seal them.
3. Protect the Skimmer
   Install a skimmer plate or use a Gizzmo to prevent cracking from ice expansion.
4. Cover the Pool
   Use a durable winter cover. For above-ground pools, place an air pillow under the cover to distribute pressure and prevent ice damage.

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Pro Tips

• Don’t forget to remove chlorine tablets from feeders—they can corrode equipment over winter⁽⁴⁾.
• Check the cover periodically for debris and water buildup.
• Label and store all components for easy spring setup.

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