Bring in a water sample to Pools Plus. Proper chemical balance is very important over the long winter months. A pH that is too high or too low can be very damaging to your liner and other pool equipment. Also, closing your pool with algae only means an even dirtier pool in the spring and a longer opening process. Always clear the pool of any algae problems before closing. It will save you time and money in the long run!
Vacuum your pool and brush it. Make sure all debris is out of the pool. Leaves and other debris can stain your liner over the winter.
Add your Bioguard closing kit:
Arctic Blue Algae Protector: This is a liquid algaecide that is designed to last in cold water and protect against algae growth. Arctic Blue should be added directly to the pool water.
Arctic Blue Shock: This is a granular product that both oxidizes and clarifies your pool water. Arctic blue should be broadcast into the pool.
Filter the chemicals for 2-4 hours for proper distribution. After the 2-4 hour period, be sure to backwash your sand filter. When you finish backwashing, turn off your pump and switch to waste/drain. Drain the pool to the bottom of the skimmer. Be sure to not let the pump run dry. Keep a close eye on the water level.
If you have a diving board, remove or cover it.
Remove the ladders by lifting the escutcheon plate and loosen the anchor bolts. The ladder should lift out at this point.
Remove all the eyeballs/return jets.
Remove the skimmer basket and weir door.
If you have a suction grate, remove it.
If you have a sand filter:
Remove the drain plug.
Move filter handle to “Winterize” or “Closed” position.
All hoses should be disconnected from the filter system and the pool.
If possible, bring your pump inside.
Turn off electricity to pump.
Drain the pump by removing the two drain plugs.
Disconnect the ground wire.
Disconnect the union from between the pump and filter.
If you have a chlorinator attached, disconnect the two hoses by loosening the Farrell nuts that are located on each end of the black chlorinator hose.
Disconnect both the suction and return lines from the pump and filter.
Remove the pump from its base.
Blow air through each of your pool lines by the filter using an air compressor or reversible vacuum. This will remove most of the water from your line. Plug the line while the blower is on by using a threaded jet plug or expansion plug (You may need 2 people to complete this step).
Plug your skimmer(s) with a Gizzmo. This will prevent ice expansion and cracking.
Plug your stair jets with a #11 expansion plug.
Pools Plus recommends using 1 gallon of non toxic anti freeze per line.
Place your winter cover on your pool, black side down. (If you have a Loop Loc Safety Cover please skip step 23)
Use water bags to secure cover in place. Water bags should only be filled 2/3 of the way and should no be dragged when they are moved.
DO NOT use cement blocks, wood, tires, or any other items to secure your cover. Any covers that are secured in this matter will not be covered under any manufacturer’s warranty.
A small amount of water on your pool cover is expectable. This will add extra weight to your cover. Excessive water should be pumped off the cover to prevent ripping.
If you have a D.E. Filter now is a good time to chemically treat it. Strip Quick or Kleen It should be used. Both of these products can be purchased at Pools Plus. We at Pools Plus can perform this service for you for a small fee.
Remember, if you have any questions contact us at Pools Plus and we will be glad to help you!
For Loop Loc or any other type of “safety cover”
Unscrew the locks from the cement.
Attach the spring or strap to the lock.
DO NOT use cement blocks, wood, tires, or any other items to secure your cover. Any covers that are secured in this matter will not be covered under any manufacturer’s warranty.
