Proper pool winterization is essential for protecting your investment during the cold months. A well-executed closing prevents freeze damage, reduces spring cleanup, and extends the life of your pool equipment. This comprehensive checklist ensures you don't miss any critical steps in preparing your pool for winter.
When to Winterize Your Pool
Begin winterization when daytime temperatures consistently stay below 65°F (18°C). In most regions, this is late September through October. Closing too early can lead to algae growth; closing too late risks freeze damage.
Complete Winterization Checklist
Step 1: Clean the Pool Thoroughly
- Skim and Vacuum: Remove all leaves, debris, and dirt from the pool. Vacuum the bottom and brush walls thoroughly.
- Clean Skimmer Baskets: Empty and clean all skimmer baskets and pump baskets.
- Backwash Filter: Backwash your filter one final time and clean or replace filter media if needed.
Step 2: Balance Water Chemistry
Proper chemical balance prevents corrosion, scaling, and algae growth during winter months.
- pH Level: Adjust to 7.2-7.6 range
- Alkalinity: Balance to 80-120 ppm
- Calcium Hardness: Adjust to 175-225 ppm for concrete pools, 175-225 ppm for vinyl
- Shock Treatment: Super-chlorinate the pool 24-48 hours before closing
- Algaecide: Add winter algaecide according to manufacturer instructions
Step 3: Lower Water Level
- For Mesh Covers: Lower water 12-18 inches below tile line or skimmer
- For Solid Covers: Lower water 3-6 inches below tile line
- Never Drain Completely: Leaving water in the pool prevents ground pressure damage and liner issues
Step 4: Drain and Winterize Equipment
- Pump: Drain completely, remove drain plugs, and store indoors if possible
- Filter: Drain, remove drain plugs, and leave valve in open position
- Heater: Drain completely and follow manufacturer's winterization instructions
- Chlorinator: Remove chlorine tablets and drain completely
- Salt Cell: Remove, clean, and store indoors in a dry location
Step 5: Blow Out Plumbing Lines
Critical Step: Frozen pipes are the #1 cause of winter pool damage. This step is essential in freezing climates.
- Use Air Compressor: Blow out all return lines, skimmer lines, and main drain lines
- Add Antifreeze: Pour pool-grade antifreeze into lines after blowing them out (optional but recommended)
- Plug All Lines: Install winterization plugs in all return jets and skimmers
Step 6: Install Safety Cover
This is where SwimCare products shine. A properly installed safety cover is your pool's primary winter protection.
- Inspect All Anchors: Check that all deck anchors are secure and clean before installation
- Replace Worn Components: Install new springs, straps, or hardware as needed. Never reuse damaged parts.
- Use PVC Sleeves: Install protective sleeves on all SwimCare stainless steel springs
- Ensure Even Tension: Hook springs in a pattern to distribute tension evenly across the cover
- Test Weight Capacity: Carefully walk on the cover to ensure it supports weight properly
- Check for Sagging: The cover should be taut with no low spots where water can pool
Step 7: Final Touches
- Remove Ladders: Take out removable ladders and store indoors
- Store Accessories: Clean and store all pool toys, floats, and cleaning equipment
- Document Settings: Take photos of equipment settings and valve positions for spring reopening
- Set Up Cover Pump: Install automatic cover pump to remove water throughout winter
Winter Monitoring Schedule
Your work isn't done once the cover is installed. Regular winter monitoring prevents problems:
- Weekly: Remove standing water with cover pump, clear debris
- After Storms: Check cover for damage, remove snow and ice
- Monthly: Inspect springs and straps for damage or loosening
Common Winterization Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Closing Too Early
Closing while temperatures are still warm (above 65°F) can lead to algae blooms and chemical imbalance.
❌ Not Blowing Out Lines
Skipping this step can result in thousands of dollars in freeze damage to plumbing.
❌ Using Worn Springs or Straps
Old components can fail under winter snow and ice loads, causing cover collapse.
❌ Draining Pool Completely
An empty pool can pop out of the ground due to groundwater pressure, especially in areas with high water tables.
Get Your Pool Ready for Winter
Shop our complete selection of safety cover systems and winterization accessories