How to Maintain Your Inground Pool During Winter

  • Aqua Pool team member closing a swimming pool

Winter is here, and if you haven’t winterized your pool yet, now’s the time to take action. Proper pool maintenance during the colder months is essential to protect your investment and ensure a smooth, hassle-free opening when warm weather returns. To help you get started, we’ve outlined the key steps to safeguard your pool all winter long.

Start with a Thorough Cleaning

The first step to winterizing your pool is giving it a deep, thorough cleaning. Start by skimming the water to remove any leaves, twigs, or debris that may have accumulated. Take extra care to clean out the skimmer baskets and vacuum the pool floor to catch anything that may have settled at the bottom.

Don’t forget the pool walls and waterline — giving these areas a good scrub will prevent any buildup of dirt or algae that could cause staining during the winter months. A clean pool is easier to maintain through winter and will save you time come spring.

Balance Your Water Chemistry

Once your pool is clean, the next crucial step is balancing your water chemistry. Properly balanced water helps protect your pool’s surfaces, plumbing, and equipment from damage during the off-season while also keeping algae and staining at bay.

Start by testing your water and adjusting the following levels:

  • pH: Keep levels between 7.2–7.6 to prevent corrosion or scaling.
  • Total Alkalinity: Stabilize your water to prevent pH fluctuations.
  • Calcium Hardness: Maintain the proper range to prevent surface erosion or scaling.

It might be tempting to add extra chlorine or strong oxidizers, but avoid this step. Chlorine tablets can sink, stick to surfaces, and damage the pool finish.

For added protection, consider using a winterizing chemical kit. These kits often include a long-lasting algaecide to prevent algae growth, keeping the water clear throughout the winter months. Not sure which kit is right for your pool? Our team can help you choose the best products for your needs.

Final Steps to Winterize and Protect Your Pool

As temperatures drop, these final steps will help protect your pool’s structure, plumbing, and equipment from freeze-related damage:

  • Lower the Water Level: Reduce the water level to just below the skimmer opening. This prevents freezing water from expanding and damaging your skimmer or other components.
  • Drain Plumbing Lines: Remove all water from the plumbing lines and securely plug them to prevent freezing.
  • Empty Pool Equipment: Drain the filter, pump, and heater completely. Most equipment has a drain plug at the bottom — double-check to ensure no water remains. Leftover water can freeze, expand, and crack your equipment.
  • Secure the Pool Cover: Install a high-quality, well-fitted winter cover to protect your pool from debris, snow, and harsh weather. Make sure it’s tightly secured to avoid
  • sagging, bunching, or slipping into the water.

Protect Your Pool All Winter Long

Proper winter maintenance is the key to keeping your pool safe, clean and ready for the warmer months ahead. By following these steps, you’ll avoid costly repairs and ensure a smooth, hassle-free pool opening. Contact us today for expert guidance and professional winterization services!

 

Disclaimer: While no method can guarantee 100% protection from ice or winter damage, hiring a licensed and qualified professional is the most effective way to safeguard your valuable investment. We strongly recommend using such professionals for all winterization needs.