Closing Your Above Ground Pool

In New Jersey, winters are harsh. This means closing your above ground pool is a must at the end of summer or start of fall. Pool winterizing is essential in reducing the risk of cold damage and contamination, saving you time, money and hassle come spring. Here are some steps to follow.

Gather Supplies

Winterizing chemical kit including pH increaser, alkalinity increaser, calcium hardness increaser, pool shock and algaecide
Clarifying enzyme supplement (optional)
Skimmer cover
Expansion/return line plugs
Cover winch/cable/clips
Winter cover
Water bags (for walk-around decks)
Antifreeze
Pool air pillow

Clean the Pool

A clean pool is easier to balance and ensures no algae or mold is left behind that can cause damage.

Test the Water

Use test strips or a testing kit. You could also take a sample to your local pool supplier.

Add Winterizing Chemicals

Use a kit or buy the chemicals separately to make sure all levels are good to go.

Clear and Store Lines

Pool lines may get damaged by ice expansion in the winter. Disconnect the lines, get the water out, let them dry and store them in a safe place so no mold develops.

Protect the Skimmer

You can either take off the skimmer basket and store it or cover it with a skimmer cover.

Winterize Filter and Pump

Remove all drain plugs and take out the pool pump, chlorinator and hoses. Keep all drain plugs in the pump basket for easy access next spring. There are different methods of winterizing depending on the type of filter you have: Sand: Switch the multiport valve to “Winterize,” removing the drain plug. Store your filter indoors. Diatomaceous Earth (DE): Drain the filter and rinse the grids, leaving the valves open. Cartridge: Drain, then rinse with a hose, again, leaving the valves open. Salt: Use the “winter” setting on your chlorine generator. Remove the electrolytic cell and take off the end caps. Store it indoors.

Clean Accessories

Don’t leave ladders, steps and toys in the pool over the winter, as they can get damaged or rust. They could even puncture the lining. Clean all accessories, let them dry, and store in a dry area for the season.

Reduce Water Level

If you are not using a skimmer cover plate, drain the water level underneath the skimmer and return lines.

Put in the Pool Pillow

Blow up the air pillow or ice compensator and place under the cover.

Install the Cover

Secure the cover to the pool with cable and winch, or clips and cable. That’s it! If you would prefer to have a professional winterize your pool, call Central Jersey Pools for help.