Instructions for How to Winterize Inground Pools
- 1). Measure and level off the chemicals in the pool to a range between pH 7.2 to 7.6 and an alkaline range between 80 to 120 parts per million. The calcium levels should range from 175 to 250 ppm. The chlorine level should range between 1 to 3 ppm. Add winterizing chemicals at the deep end of the pool to preserve the balance and prevent algae, rust and scale.
- 2). Detach the ladders and rails from the pool and deck. Loosen the bolts using a wrench and then remove them by hand. Check for cracks or damage as you remove ladders and rails.
- 3). Brush the walls and bottom of the pool to loosen any debris into the water. Vacuum the debris out. Clean the surfaces of the pool exterior. This includes the deck and rim around the pool.
- 4). Remove all debris from the basket, filter, pump and skimmer. Remove the chlorine from the automatic chlorinator if your pool has this equipment. Wash out the pool equipment. Make sure the plug is pulled. Store all of the pool equipment in a dry, covered location. Turn the pump upside down when storing so the water drains out.
- 5). Pump out the pool water until the water level is lower than the water jets and skimmer. Hook up the air compressor to the plumbing lines. Blow out the lines using forced air from the air compressor.
- 6). Screw the caps onto the water jets. Pour antifreeze into the skimmer at a rate of 1 gallon per each 10 feet of plumbing.
- 7). Unroll the pool cover. Place the pool cover over the pool so it completely covers the water. Fill the water tubes ¾ full with water. Arrange the tubes around the perimeter of the pool. Set the cover pump in the middle of the pool cover and plug it in.