Saving your above ground pool typically refers to properly closing and storing it for the off-season or salvaging it from damage. Here's a comprehensive guide to both scenarios:
Scenario 1: Closing and Storing Your Above Ground Pool for Winter
This involves taking steps to protect your pool and its components from damage during the colder months.
1. Gather Your Pool Accessories
Make sure you have everything you need before you begin. This includes:
- Winter cover
- Cover clips or cable and winch
- Pool closing chemicals (shock, algaecide)
- Plug or skimmer plate
- Tools for disassembling equipment
2. Clean and Balance the Water
- Clean: Remove leaves, debris, and dirt from the pool. Vacuum the bottom thoroughly.
- Balance: Test and adjust the water chemistry. Pay close attention to pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness. Ideal ranges are:
- pH: 7.2 - 7.6
- Alkalinity: 80 - 120 ppm
- Calcium Hardness: 200 - 400 ppm
- Shock: Add a pool shock treatment to kill any remaining bacteria and algae.
- Algaecide: Add a winter algaecide to prevent algae growth during the off-season.
3. Lower the Water Level
Lower the water level to below the skimmer and return jets. This helps prevent damage from freezing water. The exact level depends on your pool type. Consult your pool's manual for specific recommendations. Usually, this means draining to about 4-6 inches below the skimmer.
4. Disconnect and Winterize Pool Equipment
- Pump and Filter: Disconnect, drain, and clean your pump and filter. Store them indoors in a dry place. If you have a sand filter, backwash it thoroughly before storing. For cartridge filters, clean the cartridge.
- Heater: If you have a pool heater, follow the manufacturer's instructions for winterizing. This typically involves draining all water from the heater.
- Skimmer: Remove the skimmer basket and plug the skimmer opening with a winterizing plug or a skimmer plate.
- Hoses and Fittings: Disconnect and drain all hoses and fittings. Store them in a dry place.
5. Install the Winter Cover
- Securely attach the winter cover using cover clips or a cable and winch system. Make sure the cover is taut to prevent it from sagging under the weight of snow and ice.
Scenario 2: Salvaging or Repairing a Damaged Above Ground Pool
This involves assessing the damage and taking steps to repair or replace components to restore the pool to working order.
1. Assess the Damage
Carefully inspect the pool liner, walls, top rails, and other components for any damage. This could include:
- Tears or punctures in the liner
- Rust or corrosion on the walls
- Broken or missing top rails
- Leaks in the plumbing
2. Repair or Replace Damaged Components
- Liner: Small tears or punctures can often be repaired with a patch kit. Larger tears may require replacing the entire liner.
- Walls: Rust or corrosion can be treated with a rust inhibitor and paint. Severely damaged walls may need to be replaced.
- Top Rails: Broken or missing top rails should be replaced.
- Plumbing: Leaks in the plumbing can be repaired with sealant or by replacing the damaged pipes or fittings.
3. Take Preventative Measures
- Proper Installation: Ensure the pool is installed on a level surface and according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Water Chemistry: Maintain proper water chemistry to prevent corrosion and algae growth.
- Regular Cleaning: Regularly clean the pool to remove debris and prevent damage.
- Winterization: Properly winterize the pool each year to protect it from damage during the off-season.
By following these steps, you can save your above ground pool and ensure that it lasts for many years to come.
