Fall Maintenance: Pool and Sprinkler Winterization

Balance the Chemistry and Superchlorinate - Balancing the chemistry in your pool before closing it will help to prevent damage from etching or scaling. Normal superchlorination is around 10 parts per million (ppm) for a plaster pool. When closing for the season you should take it up to around 30 ppm for a plaster pool and 10 ppm for a vinyl or plastic pool. This will help to prevent algae growth and staining. Add algaecide to inhibit algae growth and a chelating agent to prevent metals from staining the surface. Chemicals should be given time to circulate before shutting the system down.

Clean the Pool - Dirt and debris can cause staining. Brushing, vacuuming and skimming the pool prior to closing is always a good idea to prevent staining.

Shutdown the System - Turn the equipment off at the breaker. Turn off any switches associated with the pool, e.g. time clocks, light switches, etc. It is best not to use pool lights in the winter. Hot lights and freezing water can cause the lens to crack. 

Lower the Water Level - The water level should be lowered to at least 18 inches below the tile. Pools should not be left completely drained because hydrostatic pressure can cause anything from cracks to the entire pool popping out of the ground. Some professionals may remove the lights, but it is more common to leave the lights installed and make sure that the water level is above them.

Clear the Lines - It is very important that as much water be taken from the lines as possible. Shallow lines, such as the skimmer, return, and vacuum, can be blown out with compressed air or a shop vacuum. Once cleared, the return and vacuum lines can then be plugged with a tapered rubber plug. In the case of the skimmers, it is best to buy a skimmer plug. These plugs resemble a bottle that is placed up side down in the skimmer plugging the pipe. They also absorb some of the pressure from ice, preventing cracking of the plastic. Main drains are usually deep enough that freezing will not occur in most areas. If you are in an area where deep freezing may occur, contact a professional to clear the lines.

Clearing the System - Remove all plugs and fixtures (flow meters, injection fittings, etc.) in order to drain and air out the lines. Pull the plug on the filter and, if possible, open the top of the filter to allow it to dry. If the system is outdoors you will need to close the filter (except for the plug) after it has had time to dry. Remove the filter element if applicable. Remove any equipment that may be damaged by exposure, especially the motor. If a heater is involved shut it down, turn off the gas, and remove the plugs. After the heater is drained, removing and storing the heat exchanger and burner tray is also recommended.

Cover the Pool - Remove and store ladders, handrails and diving boards. Put a cover on the pool. Even the use of an inexpensive vinyl sheet cover is much better than using no cover at all. 

Secure the Perimeter - Closing access to your pool will prevent accidents and limit your liability.

Antifreeze - Add antifreeze to any areas of your pools system that may freeze from standing or accumulated water. DO NOT use automotive antifreeze. Obtain antifreeze from your local pool store or use antifreeze that is designed for Boat/RV plumbing applications.