Here s a guide on how to winterize a pool for the cold months so you can jump right into the summer fun next year.
Draining an inground pool for winter.
The main drain of an in ground pool can do this using the pool pump draining from the bottom using the pump waste main control handle setting.
But make no mistake.
The method described below whereby pool plumbing pipes are blown out and sealed first was most widely performed in new england and the east coast of the us.
In ground pools can sometimes be susceptible to leaks and a leak during winter can cause problems so first and foremost find any fix any suspected leaks in the shell of the pool.
If you have an inground vinyl liner swimming pool then you have a minimum safe water level that you must observe at all times.
For example draining the heat pump to get rid of excess water or lowering the water below the skimmer level and jets to prevent plumbing freezes.
Draining an inground vinyl liner pool for the winter.
You should not be draining water completely from the pool.
Drain the water down to no more than 6 inches from the bottom of the skimmer if you plan to use a standard floating winter cover.
Whether it is the end of the swimming season or the pool needs to be drained for some other reason you will have to get the water out at some point.
A leak in the skimmer may not pose a problem but a leak in the pool light main drain or a rip in a vinyl liner can remove the supporting water level your pool.
Lower the water with a pump.
In winter the water in your pool is still your friend.
Or it works to setup a vacuum hose as if vacuuming using the skimmer suction so that the pump draws water from below the skimmer level.
It also makes your job much easier when it s time to open it again in the spring.
Use your pool filter switched to the drain setting to empty the pool water.
Closing your pool for the winter is an essential part of keeping your pool and equipment trouble free year round.
If you live in milder climates you can skip certain steps like adding antifreeze and you may even be able to keep your hoses and filters connected.
You must keep at minimum a few inches of water usually six to 12 inches is safe covering the floor of the shallow end of the pool at all times.
How to winterize close an inground pool.
Conducting an inground pool drain is something that all pool owners have to deal with at some point.
Whether you re a new pool owner with a stunning pool design or veteran home pool pro this guide contains important information for all classes of pool ownership.