Essential Guide to Winterizing Your Pool

Properly winterizing your pool is critical to protecting your investment from Virginia's freezing temperatures. Follow this comprehensive guide to ensure your pool survives winter without damage.

When to Winterize

In Northern Virginia, the ideal time to close your pool is mid-to-late October when temperatures consistently drop below 65°F. Closing too early can lead to algae growth, while closing too late risks freeze damage.

Step 1: Balance Water Chemistry

One week before closing, balance your pool's chemistry:

• pH: 7.2-7.6
• Alkalinity: 80-120 ppm
• Calcium hardness: 180-220 ppm
• Chlorine: 1-3 ppm

Balanced water prevents corrosion, scaling, and staining during the closed season.

Step 2: Deep Clean Your Pool

Thoroughly clean the pool to prevent staining and algae growth:

• Vacuum the entire pool floor
• Brush walls and steps
• Skim surface debris
• Clean skimmer baskets and pump basket
• Backwash or clean the filter

Step 3: Lower Water Level

Lower the water level to below the skimmer mouth (typically 4-6 inches below). This prevents water from entering the skimmer and freezing, which can cause expensive cracking.

Step 4: Drain and Winterize Equipment

Critical step to prevent freeze damage:

• Drain pump, filter, heater, and chlorinator
• Blow out all plumbing lines using a shop vac or air compressor
• Add antifreeze to lines (use pool-grade antifreeze only)
• Remove and store removable equipment indoors
• Install winter plugs in all return lines and skimmer

Step 5: Add Winter Chemicals

Add winterizing chemicals to prevent algae and protect surfaces:

• Algaecide (follow manufacturer instructions for dosage)
• Winter chemical kit (optional but recommended)
• Shock the pool 24 hours before covering

Step 6: Cover Your Pool

A quality pool cover is essential:

• Safety covers: Best option for families with children or pets
• Solid covers: Keep out debris but require a cover pump for water removal
• Mesh covers: Allow water to drain through while blocking debris

Ensure the cover is properly secured with water bags or anchors.

Winter Maintenance

Even when closed, check your pool monthly:

• Remove snow accumulation (over 2 inches) from cover
• Pump off excess water from solid covers
• Check cover security after storms
• Remove debris from cover surface

Professional Winterization

While DIY winterization is possible, professional service ensures nothing is missed. K and D Pools offers complete winterization services including equipment inspection, proper antifreeze application, and quality cover installation.

Contact us to schedule professional winterization service before the first freeze.