- Lower the water level 18″-24″ below the tile line. Backwash the filter(s) if possible.
- Remove all pool hardware including ladders, rails, water spouts, skimmer baskets, etc.
- Winterize the Return lines:
- Plug the skimmers with stemmed plugs. Use freeze plugs if needed.
- Close the main drain valve.
- Check that the filter(s) and valves are in the “filter” position.
- If pool has wall return outlets:
- Blow air through the lines for five (5) minutes. Check that all plugs are sealed tight.
- Plug the closest return outlet and continue to blow air for another five (5) minutes.
- Continue this until all return outlets are plugged.
- Close the return valve(s).
- If pool has floor return outlets:
- Blow air through the lines until air comes out of the pool floor.
- Close the return valve(s).
Winterize the Main Drain line:
- Open the main drain valve.
- Blow air through the lines until air comes out of the main drain.
- Close the main drain valve.
Winterize the Pump(s), Filter(s), Heater, etc.:
- Unplug all pump, filter and heater drain plugs. If the filter(s) have multiport(s), remove the sight glass(es). Place all plugs, etc. in the pump basket. Leave the pump lid open.
- If the filter(s) are D.E. or cartridge, clean filter elements, screens and inside of tank.
- Lubricate any gaskets, rubber fittings, etc.
- Lubricate any metal plugs and fittings.
Winterize the Skimmer lines:
- Blow air through each skimmer for five (5) minutes starting at the farthest skimmer and working your way to the nearest skimmer.
- Close the skimmer valve(s).
- Plug any equalizer inlets.
- Remove each stemmed plug and add one (1) gallon of antifreeze into the skimmer inlet. Re-plug using a freeze plug.
- Add one-half gallon of antifreeze directly into the skimmer shell.
- Partially fill an empty antifreeze container with P-gravel and place one (1) container into each skimmer. Cover each skimmer with the skimmer lid.
Winterize the Fresh Water Fill pipe:
- If you can disconnect the fresh water pipe in the pump room:
- Plug the pool outlet with a stem plug.
- Blow air through the line for five (5) minutes.
- Remove the stem plug and add one (1) gallon of antifreeze into the fresh water outlet. Re-plug using a freeze plug.
- If you cannot disconnect the fresh water pipe in the pump room:
- Add one (1) gallon of antifreeze into the fresh water outlet. Plug using a freeze plug.
- Add Chlorine and Algaecide directly to the pool as required.
If available, put on Pool Cover.
Complete the Winterization Report.
* This is a generic procedure that may aide you on creating your own. Your pool may require additional steps and/or procedures. Contact your builder for details. All information is copyrighted material of Pool Operation Management, Inc.
