How to Winterize Pool: Complete Troubleshooting Guide 2024

Tools & Supplies Needed

Find on Amazon: Taylor K-2006 Pool Test Kit , Liquid Chlorine Pool Shock , Pool Winterization Kit , Gizzmo Skimmer Plugs

First, Let's Diagnose Your Winterization Needs

Before jumping into pool winterization, we need to assess your current pool condition and regional climate requirements. Different scenarios require different approaches, and identifying potential problems now will save you major headaches come spring opening.

Check these key indicators:

• Current water temperature (should be below 65°F for proper winterization)
• Water clarity and color (green or cloudy water needs treatment first)
• Equipment condition (pumps, filters, heaters need inspection)
• Plumbing vulnerabilities (above-ground pipes, returns, skimmers)
• Regional freeze risk (determines closing method intensity)

Troubleshooting Pre-Winterization Water Problems

If your pool water isn't crystal clear, don't attempt winterization yet. Closing a pool with algae or bacteria will create a nightmare scenario for spring opening.

Green or Cloudy Water Solution

Execute a SLAM (Shock Level And Maintain) process using liquid chlorine:

1. Test current Free Chlorine (FC) and Cyanuric Acid (CYA) levels using a Taylor K-2006 test kit
2. Calculate shock level using FC/CYA chart (typically 10-20 ppm FC depending on CYA)
3. Add liquid chlorine to reach shock level - approximately 1 gallon per 10,000 gallons raises FC by 1 ppm
4. Run pump continuously, brushing walls twice daily
5. Maintain shock level until you pass Overnight Chlorine Loss Test (OCLT)
6. Retest every 4-6 hours, adding chlorine as needed

Warning: Never use calcium hypochlorite shock or algaecide during SLAM - liquid chlorine only.

Step-by-Step Winterization Process

Phase 1: Water Chemistry Balance

Proper chemical balance prevents equipment corrosion, surface staining, and water quality issues during closure.

1. Test and adjust pH to 7.4-7.6: Use muriatic acid to lower or sodium carbonate to raise. Add 1 quart muriatic acid per 10,000 gallons to lower pH by 0.2
2. Balance Total Alkalinity to 80-120 ppm: Use sodium bicarbonate if low (1.5 lbs per 10,000 gallons raises TA by 10 ppm)
3. Adjust Calcium Hardness to 200-300 ppm: Add calcium chloride if needed (1 lb per 10,000 gallons raises CH by 10 ppm)
4. Shock the pool: Add liquid chlorine to achieve 10-12 ppm FC, run pump for 24 hours
5. Add winterizing chemicals: Pool antifreeze for lines, algaecide rated for winter (follow manufacturer's dosing)

Phase 2: Equipment Preparation and Removal

1. Remove and clean all accessories: Ladders, handrails, skimmer baskets, return fittings, pool cleaner
2. Drain equipment properly: Empty pump basket, remove drain plugs from pump, filter, heater, and chlorinator
3. Blow out plumbing lines: Use shop vac or air compressor to remove all water from return lines, skimmer lines, and main drain
4. Add expansion plugs: Install Gizzmo plugs in skimmers, expansion plugs in returns
5. Drain heater and pump completely: Remove all drain plugs, store indoors if possible

Phase 3: Water Level and Winterization

1. Lower water level appropriately: 4-6 inches below skimmer for mesh covers, 1-2 inches below returns for solid covers
2. Add pool antifreeze to lines: Pour 1 gallon antifreeze per skimmer line and return line after blowing out
3. Install winter cover: Secure tightly with water bags or springs, ensuring proper drainage
4. Final chemical addition: Add winter closing kit chemicals according to pool volume

Troubleshooting Common Winterization Problems

Equipment Won't Drain Completely

If water remains in pump or filter after removing drain plugs, use compressed air or shop vacuum to force remaining water out. Even small amounts can cause cracking in freezing temperatures.

Skimmer Line Blockage

If you can't blow air through skimmer lines, remove basket and use plumber's snake to clear debris. Blocked lines that freeze will crack, requiring expensive spring repairs.

Cover Keeps Sagging or Collecting Water

Solid covers need proper water level (1-2 inches below returns) and adequate slope for drainage. Add cover pump if water accumulation persists. Mesh covers should sit higher with water level 4-6 inches below skimmer.

Regional Considerations and Timing

Northern climates requiring hard freeze protection need more aggressive winterization including pool antifreeze and complete equipment removal. Southern regions may only need chemical adjustment and equipment shutdown.

Optimal timing: Begin winterization when daytime temperatures consistently stay below 65°F and nighttime temperatures approach 45°F. This typically occurs 4-6 weeks before first expected freeze.

Test water chemistry one final time before final closure, ensuring FC level is 1-3 ppm, pH is 7.4-7.6, and all other parameters are balanced. This investment in proper winterization prevents thousands in potential damage and ensures easier spring opening.