Swimming Pool Winterize

The pool should be clean and algae free. Balance pH, total alkalinity and raise the chlorine level slightly higher than normal before adding the winterize chemicals. Allow the chemicals to circulate in the pool.

(OPTIONAL) - Install Gizzmo skimmer plug in skimmer and rubber winter plug in pool return inlet.

Place air pillow in the center of pool, use rope to loosely hold pillow in place (step 3 is optional in non-hard freeze climates)

Disconnect the hoses from the pool to the filter system. Remove the drain plugs from the pump and the drain plug from the filter. Remove the pressure gauge and any other system drain plugs. Set multi-port valve on the winterize position. If possible store the pump in a dry location. Pools with hard plumb PVC should follow inground step #3 below.

Place pool cover over entire pool using the cable and winch to tighten the cover around the perimeter of the pool. Use pliers to slightly tighten the winch being careful not to break the crank. Windy conditions can make installing the cover difficult.

Leave 1" to 2" of water on top of the cover to prevent wind damage to the cover. In milder climates apply a small amount of algaecide or granular chlorine (a few tablespoons) mixed with water on top of the cover to prevent algae growth. Pump excessive water from the cover with a cover pump as needed.

The pool should be clean and algae free. Balance pH, total alkalinity and raise the chlorine level slightly higher than normal before adding the winterize chemicals. Allow the chemicals to circulate in the pool.

Remove the 2 drain plugs from the pump (or pumps) and the drain plug from the filter. Remove the pressure gauge and any other system drain plugs. Set multi-port valve on the winterize position.

(OPTIONAL) - Drain the pool below the skimmers and return inlets. Use a shop vac to vacuum all the water from the skimmer and return pipes. Install Gizzmo skimmer plug in each skimmer and a rubber winter plug in pool return inlet. Re-fill pool above the return lines.

(OPTIONAL) - Install a no-drain Gizzmo skimmer plug in each skimmer and a no-drain winter plug in each return inlet. Use a shop vac to vacuum all the water from the skimmer and return pipes.

(OPTIONAL) - Add non-toxic anti-freeze to PVC pipe if possible

(OPTIONAL) - Place air pillow in the center of pool, use rope to loosely hold pillow in place (Not for non-hard freeze climates)

(OPTIONAL) - Place pool cover over the entire pool. The cover should be 2' to 3' larger than the pool on every side (5' to 6' total). Use water tubes around the perimeter with no more than 1 ft between each tube. Fill each tube 3/4 full. Leave 1" to 2" of water on top of the cover to prevent wind damage to the cover. In milder climates apply a small amount of algaecide or granular chlorine (a few tablespoons) mixed with water on top of the cover to prevent algae growth. Pump excessive water from the cover with a cover pump as needed.

Place winter safety cover over the entire pool. Use installation tool to place hooks over brass anchors. Follow installation manual for first time installation. For mesh cover in milder climates check chlorine level and add chlorine or algaecide as needed to prevent algae growth. For solid cover use automatic cover pump to keep water off cover.