Winterizing an above ground pool

[Smokenjoe420]

So I'm almost ready to close my pool. This will be my first go at this. I know that I drain water below return and skimmer. I know that I detach hoses and store filter/pump indoors.

I will be using a winter cover with a pillow under it. I know to remove the steps also. Do I need to remove the return/jet fittings from the pool? Do I remove the skimmer? Also all I read was to bring water to SLAM levels. Is that all that's needed chemical wise?

 

[VinnyinNJ]

I have skipped the pillow under the cover without any problems.

Yes, you need to lower the water and winterize everything including the filter. Take out the return eyeball and put a return plug into it, it's a screw in device that goes in to replace the eyeball. The skimmer should have come with a plate to put onto the inside of the skimmer or maybe you have a Aquador that's like a Tupperware lid. The idea is to keep water away from anywhere it could damage if it expands as it turns to ice.

I would think as long as all your water chemistry is good then yes raise FC is all you need to do.

One last thing, you need to make sure you get out any debris that may be in the water. 98% is OK, just don't close the pool with a lot of debris in the water.

 

[Mdragger88]

Its a little early to close in your neck of the woods.
You should wait until the water temps are around the low 60’s & falling.
If this is a permanent above ground pool you only remove the return eyeballs & plug then & remove the skimmer weir door & basket. Place something squishable in the skimmer basket incase of ice buildup.
Detach all the plumbing & allow it to drain.
You can drain the pool just below the skimmer & return instead of using a skimmer plate/aquadoor & leave the bottom of the skimmer open.

Closing (Winterizing) Your Above Ground Pool

Closing an above ground pool at season’s end should be a fast and worry-free process. Learn the basics of above ground pool winterization in easy steps.

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[Smokenjoe420]

I have skipped the pillow under the cover without any problems.

Yes, you need to lower the water and winterize everything including the filter. Take out the return eyeball and put a return plug into it, it's a screw in device that goes in to replace the eyeball. The skimmer should have come with a plate to put onto the inside of the skimmer or maybe you have a Aquador that's like a Tupperware lid. The idea is to keep water away from anywhere it could damage if it expands as it turns to ice.

I would think as long as all your water chemistry is good then yes raise FC is all you need to do.

One last thing, you need to make sure you get out any debris that may be in the water. 98% is OK, just don't close the pool with a lot of debris in the water.

Thanks for the feedback. If my pool came with the skimmer cover then the company who installed it, didn't leave it for me. I'll order a plug for the return. My pool stays crystal clear and clean. I vacuum it every 2 days and use skimmer basket socks.

 

[VinnyinNJ]

Thanks for the feedback. If my pool came with the skimmer cover then the company who installed it, didn't leave it for me. I'll order a plug for the return. My pool stays crystal clear and clean. I vacuum it every 2 days and use skimmer basket socks.

Depending on your skimmer a plate may be available. I had the installers use the Aquador skimmer face, it's basically a Tupperware type device vs a plate. You just want to make sure that your pool is protected from water seeping into places and expanding when it freezes, it can cause a lot of damage.

My pool gets debris in it all the time so there's always crud on the bottom of the pool. I even open the pool with crud in it sometimes because of the wind.