5 Steps to Winterize a Pool Without Messing It Up

Clean the pool and lower the water Scrub the walls and vacuum debris, then drain the water below the skimmer and return jets. A dirty pool left to sit all winter turns into a green swamp by spring.

Add winter chemicals Shock the water and add algaecide to prevent algae growth. Skipping this step guarantees extra work when you open the pool.

Remove water from the plumbing lines Blow out the lines with air or pour in pool antifreeze. Ice expands and cracks pipes if any water remains.

Plug the skimmer and return jets Seal all openings to keep out debris and prevent air from entering the system. Use proper winterizing plugs, not makeshift stoppers.

Cover it tight with a real winter cover Use a cover with a cable and winch, not a flimsy tarp held down by cinder blocks. A cheap cover lets in leaves and animals, creating more work and potential damage.