What action should be taken with pool water in preparation for winter?

Properly draining the pool and winterizing the systems is essential for preparing a pool for winter. This process involves removing water from the pool to prevent freezing, which can damage the interior surfaces, tiles, and plumbing. By draining the water to a suitable level, typically below the skimmer line, vacationing water helps prevent ice from forming and potentially cracking the pool structure.

Winterizing systems entails ensuring that the pump, filter, heater, and other components are appropriately drained or protected to avoid freeze damage. This often includes blowing out the lines to remove any water that could freeze and burst the plumbing.

While covering the pool is important for protection, doing so without safely winterizing could lead to serious issues if water freezes or if climate conditions are harsh. Adding chemicals before winter might help maintain water clarity and reduce algae when the pool is opened in spring, but it is not a substitute for the necessary precautions to protect the pool from freezing temperatures. Leaving the water to freeze naturally is not advised, as ice can cause irreversible damage to the pool structure and equipment.