Winterizing

Winterizing means lowering the water level below the skimmer, blowing out or draining water from pipes and equipment, adding winterizing chemicals to hold water balance during dormancy, and covering the pool, all done before the first hard freeze in colder climates. Skipped or rushed winterizing is one of the most common causes of expensive spring repairs: water left in a pump housing or a length of pipe expands as it freezes and can split fittings that are otherwise fine. In warm climates without freeze risk, most pools skip a true winterization and simply run year-round on a lighter maintenance schedule.