Essential Winter Care Tips for Above-Ground Pools

Many pool owners assume that once their pool is closed for the season, there’s nothing left to do—but winter is actually a critical time to stay on top of a few simple maintenance steps. Whether you’re using a mesh or solid cover, keeping the right water level, or deciding whether to use an air pillow, the steps you take now can prevent costly damage down the road. Below, we outline the key winter maintenance guidelines every above-ground pool owner should follow.

Understanding Your Pool Cover

Pool covers play a major role in protecting your pool throughout winter. Knowing the differences between mesh and solid covers helps you take the right maintenance steps.

Mesh Covers

Mesh covers are porous, allowing water and small particles to pass through.
Because water drains naturally, you do not need to pump water off a mesh cover.
However, excessive debris—like leaves and twigs—can create a barrier that stops water from passing through, causing the cover to behave like a solid one. Clearing debris regularly is essential.

Solid Covers

Solid covers prevent water from passing through, keeping more debris out of the pool.
These covers require routine pumping to remove accumulated water.
A damaged or deteriorating solid cover cannot function properly; replacement is necessary to maintain protection.
Keep about two inches of water on top of the cover to help weigh it down and prevent wind-related shifting.

Debris and Water Removal

Keeping debris and water under control protects your cover and pool structure during the off-season.

Remove debris regularly: Use a telescopic pole and leaf net to keep leaves and branches from piling up. Contact Pools Plus if you’d like to purchase a leaf net.
Pump solid covers: If you have a solid cover, use a cover pump to remove collected water, discharging it away from the pool area.
Maintain water on solid covers: About two inches of water helps stabilize the cover without overloading it.

Air Pillows: What You Need to Know

Air pillows are a common part of winterizing above-ground pools, but their benefits can vary.

Some say they reduce pressure on the pool walls caused by ice. Others argue they simply help consolidate water toward the center of the cover for easier removal. If you choose to use an air pillow, keep these guidelines in mind:

The pillow does not need to be perfectly centered. Movement is normal and not a cause for concern.
Pillows may deflate over time; this does not compromise winterization.
Never tie an air pillow to the pool structure. This can cause structural damage if the water level drops unexpectedly.
This season, our Pools Plus technicians frequently used “Pillow Pals” to help stabilize and center pillows without attaching them to the pool.

Maintaining Proper Pool Water Level

Water level is one of the most important parts of winter care. Incorrect water height—either too low or too high—can lead to serious and expensive damage.

Check the water level periodically by looking under the cover or at the skimmer from outside the pool.

Low Water Level Risks

Puts excessive strain on the cover
Can damage the pool wall or structure
May lead to costly repairs in the spring

High Water Level Risks

Increases the risk of freeze damage
Can cause bulged or dislodged top rails
May damage the skimmer area

Recommended Water Level:
For most above-ground pools, keep the water at the bottom of the skimmer/return jet area. This allows room for ice expansion while still supporting the cover during snow and ice accumulation.

Recommended Closing Methods

Pools Plus recommends two primary approaches to winter closing:

1. Preferred Method: Winter Plug System (e.g., “Aquadoor”)

Using a winter plug system in the skimmer and return allows the water level to stay closer to normal operating height. This makes spring openings much easier and helps maintain structural stability all winter.

2. Alternative Method: Leave Skimmer and Return Open

Leaving both the skimmer and return open helps prevent water from rising above the ideal level. This method still requires monitoring but is commonly used.

General Off-Season Check-Ups

Winter maintenance does not need to be done daily. Instead, focus on periodic check-ins—especially before snow, freezing temperatures, or after heavy storms.

Inspect the cable and winch: Replace at the first sign of wear.
If the cover is overloaded: Loosen or remove the winch to let the cover fall into the pool. It’s far easier to clean a fallen cover than repair structural damage.
Monitor water loss: Pools often appear low in spring because of ice displacement.
- Remove the cover and monitor water for 48 hours if you suspect a leak.
- If the level stabilizes, refill as needed—pools should always be at least half full.

Looking Ahead to Spring

Pools Plus is available for select off-season services when weather allows. As temperatures warm, it’s important to open your pool early to prevent algae growth and ensure a clean, enjoyable start to the season.

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Essential Winter Care Tips for Above-Ground Pools