Winterizing your inground pool is essential to keeping it in great condition year after year. Some people believe that draining a pool for winter is necessary, but do you have to drain an inground pool for winter? In most cases, the answer is no—it’s neither required nor recommended. In northern states, winterization practices may differ due to extreme and consistently low temperatures. However, in Georgia, where Sears Pool operates, draining your pool can often do more harm than good. Here’s why, along with the best steps to take for proper winterization.
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Why You Shouldn’t Drain an Inground Pool For Winter
The idea of draining a pool might seem logical—after all, removing water should mean less maintenance, right? Not exactly. Draining your pool can actually lead to several serious issues.
1. Structural Damage
Inground pools are designed to withstand the pressure of surrounding soil and water. When you remove the water, the lack of weight can cause your pool to shift, crack, or even pop out of the ground due to ground pressure.
This is especially true in areas with high groundwater levels, where water pressure below the pool can cause it to lift or shift if it isn’t weighted down.
2. Surface Damage
Many inground pools have finishes like plaster, concrete, or vinyl liners that rely on constant water coverage to avoid drying and cracking.
Draining your pool exposes these materials to fluctuating temperatures, which can result in cracks, peeling, or other types of surface degradation. Draining a pool can also lead to costly resurfacing needs.
3. Unnecessary Costs
Draining a pool isn’t only risky; it’s also expensive. The refill cost and additional chemicals needed to balance the water once you refill the pool can add up quickly.
Maintaining your pool’s water levels is generally more cost-effective than draining and refilling.
When Is Draining a Pool Necessary?
There are some rare instances when a partial drain might be necessary.
- High TDS (Total Dissolved Solids)
Over time, your pool water may accumulate high levels of dissolved solids from chemicals, salts, and other contaminants, affecting the quality of the water. If levels are extreme, your pool technician may recommend a partial drain to restore water quality.
- Extreme Chemical Imbalances
In cases of extreme chemical imbalance that can’t be corrected with regular treatments, a partial drain might be advisable. However, this is rare and usually managed with regular chemical maintenance.
If you think you might need a partial drain, always consult a pool professional first to assess the situation and avoid any unnecessary risk.
How to Winterize Your Pool Without Draining It
To keep your pool in top shape throughout the winter without draining it.
1. Balance the Water Chemistry
Balancing your water chemistry is one of the most important steps to protect your pool. Ensure your pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels are in check, as unbalanced water can lead to corrosion, scaling, and other damage over time. Our team at Sears Pool can help fine-tune these levels to protect your pool through the winter.
2. Lower the Water Level Slightly
While you shouldn’t completely drain your pool, lowering the water level below the skimmer line is recommended to prevent freezing in the pipes and a “tea bag” effect on your pool cover.
A “tea bag” effect occurs when pool water contacts the underside of the pool cover and leaves accumulate on top and weigh it down. Over time, dirt and color from the leaves can seep into the water, potentially leaving stains on the pool surface for you to find during Spring opening.
For most inground pools, reducing the water by 4-6 inches below the skimmer line should suffice. Be cautious not to lower it too much, as maintaining enough water weight is crucial for structural stability.
3. Add a Winterizing Chemical Kit
Winterizing kits are specially formulated to prevent algae growth, staining, and scale buildup over the winter.
We highly recommend consulting your pool management company before using a winterization kit. The right kit for your pool may vary depending on its size and operational setup. These kits typically include algaecides, stain inhibitors, and other treatments that make it easy to protect your pool with minimal effort.
If done correctly, applying a winterizing kit at the start of the season can help keep your pool in great condition until spring.
4. Clean and Cover Your Pool
Thoroughly clean your pool to remove debris, which can damage pool surfaces and encourage algae growth.
After cleaning, cover your pool with a high-quality winter cover to keep out leaves, dirt, and other debris.
A well-fitted cover also helps maintain water quality and prevent evaporation, making it easier to open your pool when warmer weather returns.
5. Protect the Pool Equipment
Be sure to drain the water from your pump, filter, heater, and any other equipment that might hold water.
Freezing temperatures can cause any trapped water to expand, damaging equipment components. Remove any portable equipment and store it indoors if possible.
6. Monitor the Pool Throughout Winter
Finally, it’s a good idea to check your pool periodically throughout the winter. Remove excess debris from the cover, inspect for any signs of damage, and ensure the water level hasn’t dropped too low.
Set Yourself Up for Success
Winterizing your inground pool is an essential part of pool maintenance, but draining it entirely is usually unnecessary and can lead to costly damage.
Remember, the key to a healthy pool is proactive care—keeping water in your pool and following a smart winterization plan will help you avoid surprises when spring arrives.
For peace of mind and expert pool management in the Atlanta, Georgia area, reach out to Sears Pool for services tailored to protect your pool year-round.
