Quick Answer
How Is a Pool Winterized for the Cold Season?
Winterizing involves balancing water chemistry, cleaning and either draining or antifreeze-protecting the filtration system against freezing, lowering the water level below the skimmer, and covering the pool with a winter cover. Proper winterization prevents freeze-related equipment damage before the spring re-opening.
Winterization Steps
1) Water chemistry is balanced one final time (pH, alkalinity, shock chlorination). 2) Water is drained from the filter, pump, and pipework, or freeze-resistant antifreeze is added. 3) Skimmer and return jets are sealed with winterizing plugs. 4) Water level is lowered below the skimmer opening. 5) The pool is covered with a winter cover to reduce organic contamination and freeze risk.