Instructions on Water Level and Winterizing a Pool
- 1). Remove pool toys, ladders and other equipment from the pool.
- 2). Clean the pool. Remove floating debris and use a pool vacuum to clean any sand, dirt or other debris from the pool floor.
- 3). Shock the pool using a chlorine or non-chlorine based chemical. Pool shock can be purchased at most home improvement warehouses and at pool and spa outlets. Pools should be shocked at least three days prior to closing. If you are using a chlorine shock, wait 24 hours before performing other winterizing actions. Non-chlorine based shock only requires you to wait 15 minutes.
- 4). Add winter algaecide to the pool. Read the manufacturer's instructions thoroughly before adding winter algaecide to ensure you have the correct measurements.
- 5). Lower your water level using the filter pump. If the pool has tile walls, lower the level at least 6 inches below the top tile. If the pool does not have tile walls, you do not need to lower the water level. However, it can be lowered 18 inches below the skim line.
- 6). Drain the pool filter and pumps. Clean the filter and pumps and allow them to dry thoroughly before storage. Filters and pumps that are small enough to transport should be stored indoors during winter.
- 7). Cover your pool. Read the manufacturer's directions thoroughly to ensure that you cover it properly for winter months. Many pool covers use different directions for winterization.