Views: 222 Author: Tina Publish Time: 2025-10-06 Origin: Site
Content Menu
● Essential Tools and Supplies
● Pre-Winter Cleaning for All Filters
● Water Chemistry and Winterizing Treatment
● Winterizing Sand Pool Filters
>> Step-by-Step
● Winterizing Cartridge Pool Filters
>> Step-by-Step
>> Step-by-Step
● Plumbing and Equipment Precautions
● Protecting Above-Ground and Inground Pools
>> Above-Ground
>> Inground
● Troubleshooting and Advanced Tips
>> 1. Should I remove the sand from my sand filter before winter?
>> 2. Can I leave my filter outdoors all winter?
>> 3. How do I winterize pool pumps and plumbing?
>> 4. What chemicals do I add for winterizing?
>> 5. How often should I check my pool during the winter?
Pool maintenance does not stop when summer ends. For owners in cold climates, winterizing pool equipment—especially your filter system—is essential to prevent freeze damage, extend the life of your equipment, and guarantee an easy, healthy pool opening next season. This definitive guide details every step for sand, cartridge, and DE (diatomaceous earth) pool filters, integrating up-to-date industry best practices, and illustrative imagery.[4][5][6][9][10]
Without proper winterization, filters and plumbing are at risk for:
- Cracked tanks and pipes from water freeze expansion
- Rust and corrosion inside the system
- Clogs or poor flow come springtime
- Costly repairs and part replacements[5][6][9]
By carefully winterizing your system, you not only protect your investment but also save significant time and money in the long run.
Gather these items before you begin:
- Garden and backwash hoses
- Filter cleaning solution (especially for cartridges or DE)
- Screwdriver, adjustable wrench, pliers
- Lubricant for O-rings and gaskets
- Clean towels and labeled bags
- Weather-resistant pool cover or tarp[7][11][5]
Thorough cleaning is critical whether you use sand, cartridge, or DE filters. Here's how:
- Skim debris from the pool surface and vacuum walls/floor.[6][4]
- Brush corners and tight areas to remove algae or dirt.
- For sand and DE filters, backwash until the discharge is clear; for cartridges, remove and clean the element.[12][5]
- Rinse filter housing and accessories, allowing them to dry completely before storage.
This upfront effort prevents organic buildup and stubborn spring contamination.
Chemical balance is just as important:
- Test and adjust pH (7.2–7.6) and alkalinity (80–120 ppm).[4][6]
- Shock pool with liquid chlorine and add a winterizing kit, including algaecide, shock, and stain preventer.
- Circulate the chemicals for 24–48 hours for even distribution.
Beginning winter with clean, balanced water protects both the pool surfaces and internal equipment.
Lowering the water level minimizes risk to plumbing and the skimmer:
- For inground pools: drop water 4–6 inches below the tile or skimmer; mesh cover users should reduce it 16–18 inches.[6][4]
- For above-ground pools: lower to just below the skimmer and install a winter tarp or skimmer plate.
This step helps keep winter precipitation or ice from pushing water into vulnerable lines.
1. Backwash Thoroughly
Switch the multiport valve to “Backwash” and run until water is clear (usually 2–3 minutes).[2][10][11]
2. Rinse and Repeat
Set to “Rinse” for 30 seconds to remove residual dirt and sand from the valve and lines.
3. Turn Off and Drain
Power down the pump before opening the drain valve at the filter's base. Remove drain plugs to let all water escape.[13][14][15][5]
4. Disconnect Accessories
Detach all hoses, pressure gauges, and fittings. Rinse these and store indoors.
5. Protect and Store
Lubricate O-rings and threads. Cover any outdoor filter tightly with a weatherproof tarp or, if possible, relocate to a frost-free shed.[11][5][7]
6. Bag Small Parts
Label and store drain plugs, pressure gauges, and clamps in a zip bag for easy retrieval next spring.
1. Turn Off and Open
Disconnect power and open the filter housing.[16][17][7][12]
2. Remove Cartridge
Extract the cartridge element(s) for cleaning.
3. Clean for Storage
Rinse off loose debris then soak the cartridge in a specialized cleaning solution. Allow to dry fully.[7]
4. Drain Everything
Open all drain plugs and tilt the tank to let out trapped water.
5. Remove and Lubricate
Detach hoses and store. Lubricate O-rings and gaskets, keeping them supple.
6. Store All Equipment
Store clean cartridges, hoses, and small parts in a dry, frost-free location. Cover the outdoor housing if not moved indoors for protection.
1. Backwash and Bump
Backwash the DE filter as usual, then use the bump handle to remove excess DE powder and debris. Repeat 7–10 times for best results.[3][18]
2. Thoroughly Drain
Turn off power, open shutoff valves, and drain all water while continuing to bump the filter.[3]
3. Remove, Clean, and Inspect Grids
Detach the tank lid and internal grids, rinse them inside and out, and soak them in a cleaning solution. Inspect for tears or wear.
4. Dry and Store
Once components are clean and dry, reassemble the tank loosely (no bolts tight). Store grids and small parts in a frost-free area. Tanks can remain outdoors if completely drained and covered, but pumps must stay dry and warm.[3]
Frozen water inside plumbing can split pipes and crack equipment. Prevent this by:
- Blowing out lines with a shop vac or air compressor, then plugging with winterizing plugs.[4][6]
- Adding pool-safe antifreeze to the skimmer to protect vulnerable lines.
- Removing, draining, and storing pool accessories such as pumps, heaters, and chlorinators indoors when possible.
- Remove ladders, skimmer baskets, and other accessories.
- Clean liner above the waterline.
- Inflate an air pillow to absorb ice pressure, place it in the pool center, then cover the pool with a tight winter cover (secured with cable and clips).[6]
- Remove handrails, steps, and other hardware.
- Inspect for liner or frame damage.
- Center a winter cover, fill water tubes to ¾ full, and keep the cover free of standing water during the winter.[6]
Even once the pool is closed, occasional care prevents problems:
- Check pool cover for excess rainwater or snow; remove gently.
- Add fresh water below the cover if evaporation lowers the pool too much.
- Keep children and pets away from frozen or covered pools.
- For saltwater pools, drain the generator and test salt levels before closure.[6]
- If you discover damaged filter elements or cracks in spring, replace them immediately or consult your pool professional.
- Always use the manufacturer's manual for filter-specific guidance.
- Label every bag or container of small parts to simplify spring setup.
- Consider video documentation of your winterizing process for easy reference next year.
- Keep a log of water chemistry, service dates, and filter replacements for long-term maintenance.
Winterizing your pool filter system is essential for protecting your investment, preventing expensive freeze-related damage, and ensuring a smooth spring reopening. By following the comprehensive steps outlined—cleaning, draining, disconnecting, adjusting chemicals, securing parts, and covering equipment—pool owners can safeguard sand, cartridge, and DE filter systems through even the harshest winters. Leveraging these practices provides peace of mind, reduces operational costs, and keeps the water sparkling when the warm weather returns.[9][10][5][7][4][3][6]
No. Simply drain all water and cover the filter. The sand should be changed every 4–5 years, but does not need to be removed for winter storage.[10]
Yes, provided it is fully drained and protected with a cover. In colder climates, indoor storage is best.[15][5][10]
Detach, drain, and store pumps in a dry location. Use compressed air to clear plumbing, then seal with winterizing plugs and if recommended, pool-safe antifreeze.[4][6]
Use a winter chemical kit containing algaecide, shock treatment, and stain prevention. Adjust pH and alkalinity to optimal levels before closing.[4][6]
Inspect your pool cover after heavy snow or rain and remove excess water to prevent sagging. Maintain water balance if the pool is uncovered for any reason.[6]
[1](https://www.millenniumpool.com/blog/comprehensive-pool-winterization-guide/)
[2](https://poolpartstogo.com/blogs/articles/how-to-winterize-any-type-of-pool-filter-fast)
[3](https://www.thepoolfactory.com/blogs/pool-care/d-e-pool-filter-system-winterization-steps)
[4](https://cannonballpoolsnj.com/how-to-winterize-your-pool-step-by-step-guide/)
[5](https://www.funcenterpools.com/en/help/pool-filters/how-do-i-winterize-my-pool-filter)
[6](https://blog.watsons.com/blog/winterizing-pools)
[7](https://mrpoolman.com.au/blogs/news/how-to-winterize-your-pool-filter-cartridge)
[8](https://products.swimuniversity.com/pool-winterization)
[9](https://www.pvcfittingsonline.com/blogs/resource-center/the-proper-steps-to-winterizing-your-pool-filtration-system-to-prevent-damage)
[10](https://www.thepoolfactory.com/blogs/pool-care/sand-filter-system-how-to-winterize-for-pool-closing)
[11](https://teampoolworks.com/blog/winterize-your-pool-filter/)
[12](https://www.thepoolfactory.com/blogs/pool-care/how-to-winterize-your-cartridge-filter-system)
[13](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/bW7EArOuBfc)
[14](https://www.aquapalace.com/blog/comments.cfm?page=Winterizing_your_aboveground_sand%2C_cartridge_or_DE_filter_system%21)
[15](https://www.reddit.com/r/pools/comments/16jrjsv/do_i_leave_a_sand_filter_outside_for_winter/)
[16](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJ7ZY7rhVJo)
[17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4s5Xrk3XvBo)
[18](https://teddybearpools.com/the-importance-of-winterizing-your-pool-filter/)