How to Winterize Above Ground Pool: Complete Step Guide

Tools & Supplies Needed

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Quick Answer

Properly winterizing your above ground pool involves five essential steps: balancing water chemistry, thoroughly cleaning the pool, lowering water levels, protecting equipment from freezing, and installing a quality winter cover. This process typically takes 2-3 hours and prevents costly freeze damage while keeping your pool ready for next season's opening.

Water Chemistry Balance

Start winterization by testing and adjusting your pool's chemical levels at least one week before closing. This extended timeframe allows chemicals to fully circulate and stabilize before covering.

Target Chemical Ranges

• pH: 7.4-7.6 (slightly higher than summer levels helps prevent scale formation)
• Total Alkalinity: 100-150 ppm (higher range provides better pH buffering during winter)
• Calcium Hardness: 175-250 ppm for vinyl pools
• Free Chlorine: 1-3 ppm (don't over-chlorinate before closing)
• CYA (Stabilizer): 30-50 ppm

Use a reliable test kit like the Taylor K-2006 to ensure accurate readings. Add muriatic acid to lower pH or sodium carbonate to raise it. For alkalinity adjustments, use sodium bicarbonate to raise or muriatic acid to lower levels gradually.

Deep Cleaning Process

A thorough cleaning prevents organic matter from decomposing under your winter cover, which can create water quality issues and staining.

1. Vacuum the entire pool bottom - Remove all visible debris, leaves, and sediment
2. Brush all surfaces - Pay special attention to areas with poor circulation like steps and corners
3. Clean the waterline - Use a pool tile cleaner to remove oils and scum buildup
4. Empty skimmer and pump baskets - Remove any trapped debris
5. Backwash or clean your filter - A clean filter ensures better circulation during chemical balancing

Equipment Protection

Above ground pools require specific equipment winterization to prevent freeze damage to pumps, filters, and plumbing lines.

Pump and Filter System

1. Turn off power at the breaker - Never work on equipment with power connected
2. Drain the pump completely - Remove drain plugs and store them in the pump basket
3. Remove and clean the filter - For cartridge filters, clean thoroughly and store indoors; for sand filters, set to winterize setting if available
4. Disconnect hoses - Drain all water from hoses and store them to prevent cracking
5. Store pump indoors - Above ground pool pumps should be stored in a dry, temperature-controlled area

Plumbing Winterization

Unlike inground pools, most above ground pools have simpler plumbing that's easier to winterize:

• Remove all return fittings and plug the openings with winter plugs
• Install a skimmer cover or use a skimmer plate to seal the opening
• For pools with bottom drains, ensure they're properly plugged

Water Level Management

Proper water level is crucial for above ground pools during winter months. Unlike inground pools, you don't want to drain these pools completely.

Recommended water level: Lower water to 4-6 inches below the skimmer opening. This prevents water from entering the skimmer system while maintaining enough water to support the pool walls against ice expansion and wind pressure on the cover.

Use a submersible pump or your pool's drain valve if equipped. Monitor the draining process closely - removing too much water can cause structural damage to above ground pools.

Winter Chemical Treatment

Add winterizing chemicals after balancing basic chemistry but before installing the cover.

Winterizing Chemical Kit Components

• Algaecide: Add 1 quart of winter algaecide per 15,000 gallons
• Pool antifreeze: Only for areas with harsh winters - add to skimmer lines if not completely drained
• Stain and scale preventer: Follow manufacturer's dosing instructions based on your pool volume

Application process: Add chemicals while running your pump for final circulation. Run the system for 2-4 hours to ensure even distribution before shutting down equipment.

Cover Installation

A quality winter cover is your pool's primary protection against debris, algae growth, and evaporation.

Cover Types and Installation

Standard winter covers: Most common for above ground pools. Secure with cable and winch system around the pool's perimeter. Ensure the cover extends at least 3 feet beyond the pool edge on all sides.

Safety covers: More expensive but provide better protection and safety. These require specific anchor points and professional installation in most cases.

1. Clean the cover before installation - Inspect for holes or weak spots
2. Position cover carefully - Avoid dragging across the pool deck
3. Secure tightly - Eliminate gaps where debris can enter
4. Add water bags or cover clips - Provide additional security against wind

Final Winterization Steps

Complete your winterization with these final protective measures:

• Document your process: Keep notes on chemical levels and procedures for easier spring opening
• Store chemicals properly: Keep liquid chemicals from freezing; store dry chemicals in cool, dry locations
• Plan for maintenance: Even winterized pools need occasional cover cleaning and water level monitoring

Winter Maintenance Schedule

Check your pool monthly during winter:

• Remove excess water from cover surface
• Clear heavy snow loads that could damage the cover
• Inspect cover security and make adjustments as needed
• Monitor water levels through skimmer openings

Proper winterization protects your above ground pool investment and ensures a smoother opening process when warm weather returns. Following these comprehensive steps prevents costly freeze damage and maintains water quality throughout the off-season.