Views: 222 Author: Tina Publish Time: 2025-09-10 Origin: Site
Content Menu
● Why Winterize Your Above Ground Pool Pump?
● Step 1: Prepare Your Pool Water and Equipment
● Step 2: Turn Off and Disconnect the Pump
● Step 3: Drain Water from Pump, Filter, and Pipes
● Step 4: Protect Plumbing and Lower Water Level
● Step 5: Add Winterizing Chemicals
● Step 6: Install Air Pillow and Cover the Pool
● Step 7: Store Pump and Accessories Indoors
● Additional Winter Pool Care Tips
● Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
>> 1. When should I start winterizing my above ground pool pump?
>> 2. Can I leave the pump outside during winter?
>> 3. What happens if I don't drain water from the pump and pipes?
>> 4. Do I need special chemicals for winterization?
>> 5. How long does the winterizing process take?
Winterizing your above ground pool pump is a vital maintenance step to protect your pool equipment and ensure a smooth, trouble-free reopening next spring. Without proper winterization, water left inside your pump and plumbing lines can freeze, expand, and cause costly damage. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire winterizing process—from preparing the pool water, to draining and disconnecting the pump, to protecting your pool plumbing, adding winter chemicals, and securely covering your pool. It includes practical tips and visual aids to help you, along with answers to frequently asked questions at the end.
Winterizing the pump prevents freeze damage caused by water expansion inside the pump housing, filter, and pipes. Frozen water can crack the pump casing, damage internal components, and lead to expensive repairs or replacement. Moreover, winterizing also helps keep your pool water balanced and free from algae during the off-season. Taking the time for proper winter care can extend your pump's lifespan and save money on maintenance long term.
Before starting, gather the following tools and materials:
- Basic hand tools (wrenches, screwdrivers)
- Garden hose and submersible pump (if available)
- Pool winterizing chemicals (shock, algaecide, pH balancers)
- Pool cover, air pillow, and securing straps or cables
- Winter plugs for skimmers and returns
- Foam pipe insulation or covers
- Towels or rags for cleaning and drying
- Storage containers for parts and small accessories
Begin by preparing your pool and equipment for winter closure:
- Balance the pool water chemistry: Use test kits to ensure the pH level is between 7.2 and 7.6, total alkalinity is 80-120 ppm, and chlorine is at the recommended level. Balanced water prevents corrosion or scaling of pool surfaces during winter.
- Clean the pool thoroughly: Skim the surface to remove leaves and debris, vacuum the pool bottom, and brush walls to remove algae. Cleaning prevents grime buildup while the pool is closed.
- Remove pool accessories: Take out ladders, skimmer baskets, pool toys, and lighting fixtures. Clean and store them indoors in a dry, protected place to avoid damage.
Safety first—turn off the power to the pump at the circuit breaker:
- Switch off the pump and disconnect it from the pool plumbing system.
- Remove the pump lid, baskets, and any detachable parts.
- Inspect the pump and clean all components—including the pump basket—to remove debris and insects.
Draining water is crucial to avoid ice damage:
- Locate all drain plugs on the pump, filter tank, and hoses. Remove drain plugs and allow all water to drain completely.
- Tilt and turn the pump to help expel trapped water. Open the air relief valve on your filter to release pressure.
- Use a wet vacuum or blower if necessary to clear water from plumbing lines.
- After draining, replace drain plugs securely.
Prevent freeze damage to pool plumbing:
- Lower the pool water level approximately 4 to 6 inches below the skimmer throat so water won't freeze in the skimmer or pipes.
- Insert winterizing plugs in the skimmer and return lines to prevent water inflow.
- Use foam pipe covers or insulation sleeves on exposed plumbing lines for extra freeze protection.
- If your system includes a heater or booster pump, drain those as well per the manufacturer's instructions.
Ensure water stays clean and clear throughout winter:
- Add a winter algaecide to prevent algae growth during the colder months.
- Shock the pool with chlorine to sanitize and kill bacteria before closing.
- Consider adding pool enzyme tablets or winterizing pills under the cover to break down organic matter.
- Use a metal sequestrant if your water contains high metal content to prevent staining.
Protect the pool structure and keep debris out:
- Inflate the pool air pillow to about 60-70% capacity. Place it in the center of the pool to absorb the pressure of expanding ice and help prevent damage to pool walls.
- Lay the winter pool cover evenly over the pool, ensuring the air pillow is fully covered.
- Secure the cover tightly using a cable and winch system or weighted straps to prevent wind damage and debris from entering.
- Add 1-2 inches of water atop the cover to weigh it down and reduce flapping.
Proper storage protects your equipment during winter:
- Remove the pump and motor, hoses, and accessories from outdoors.
- Store indoors in a dry, frost-free environment such as a garage or basement.
- Coil cords and hoses loosely to avoid damage.
- Check equipment periodically for signs of wear or moisture buildup.
- Regularly inspect the pool cover for excessive water or debris build-up and remove promptly, especially after storms.
- Consider using a leaf net before the main cover installation to ease leaf and debris removal in fall.
- Avoid walking on the pool cover to prevent damage.
- For saltwater pool owners, remember to drain and store the chlorine generator and check salt levels before winterization.
Properly winterizing your above ground pool pump and equipment is essential to protect your investment from freeze damage and costly repairs. Following this detailed step-by-step guide—from balancing pool water and thoroughly cleaning, to draining and disconnecting the pump, protecting plumbing, adding winterizing chemicals, and securely covering your pool—will keep your pool in excellent condition over the colder months. Storing your pump indoors and maintaining your cover throughout winter ensures a smooth, hassle-free pool opening next season, prolonging the lifespan of your equipment for years to come.
Start winterizing when nighttime temperatures consistently drop below 50-65°F (10-18°C) and swimming is no longer expected.
It is best to bring the pump indoors to a dry, frost-free place. If left outside, ensure it is fully drained and well-covered to prevent freeze damage.
Water left inside can freeze, expand, and crack the pump housing, filter, or plumbing, causing extensive damage.
Yes, use winter algaecide, pool shock, and enzymes to maintain water clarity and prevent algae and bacteria growth during winter.
Depending on pool size and equipment complexity, winterizing typically takes 2 to 4 hours.
[1](https://blog.watsons.com/blog/winterizing-pools)
[2](https://www.thepoolfactory.com/blogs/pool-care/closing-an-above-ground-pool)
[3](https://www.familypoolsnorth.com/blog/post/how-to-close-your-above-ground-pool-for-winter)
[4](https://happyhideouts.co.uk/blogs/news/how-to-winterize-above-ground-pool)
[5](http://old.doughboypools.com/blog/6-step-winterize-above-ground-swimming-pool/)
[6](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GAPvzyrd8js)
[7](https://www.poolsuppliescanada.ca/closing-your-above-ground-pool-guide.html)
[8](https://www.armandhammer.com/en/articles/steps-for-closing-and-winterizing-a-pool)
[9](https://www.pioneerfamilypools.ca/wp-content/uploads/resources/pdfs/Pool-Winterizing-Instructions.pdf)
[10](https://cannonballpoolsnj.com/how-to-winterize-your-pool-step-by-step-guide/)