When it comes to storing an above-ground pool in the off-season, you’ll need to take several steps to properly prepare the pool for long-term storage. Before starting the preparation process, you’ll need to make sure the pool is completely clean and free of any contaminants.
If the pool is larger, it might be beneficial to use a vacuum to suction the water out of the pool, or a submersible pump designed for pools to help drain the rest of the pool into a garden hose or sump pump.
Once your pool has been emptied, you’ll want to ensure that any debris and dirt has been scrubbed away, as any debris left in the pool can potentially lead to corrosion or algae growth.
Once your pool is cleared of debris and its been scrubbed down, it’s time to protect it from the elements. If your pool is located outdoors, you’ll want to purchase an above-ground pool cover that will fit your specific pool size and shape.
This will help to protect the pool from leaves, dirt and insects. If the pool is located indoors, you’ll want to purchase a heavy-duty tarp to cover the pool up during storage.
Finally, you may want to consider taking a few extra steps to ensure your pool is properly cared for during the off-season. For instance, if you have an above-ground filter connected to your pool, you may want to consider draining it by disconnecting it from the pool and keeping it indoors.
Additionally, you may want to consider partially filling your pool with water to prevent it from melting the ground beneath it or blowing away.
Can above ground pools be left up year round?
Yes, above ground pools can be left up year round if they are built and maintained properly. Above ground pools should be winterized in cold climates as water expands when it freezes and can cause cracking and other damage.
This can be done by draining the pool and storing the ladder, filter, and other accessories separately. Additionally, pools should be covered to protect them from leaves, animals, and other debris that can get in the water and prevent it from being properly treated.
Appropriate chemical maintenance should also be performed to prevent the buildup of bacteria and algae in the pool. Finally, a pool cover designed for year-round use can help protect the pool from cold weather and provide an extra barrier against debris and animals.
Which above ground pools last the longest?
Above ground pools with galvanized steel frames are considered to be some of the most durable options and typically last the longest. Galvanized steel is known for its rust-resistant properties, which makes it a great choice for pools.
Another feature of galvanized steel frames that can make them last longer is their adjustable height. If the pool begins to sag over time, the legs can be adjusted to restore the pool to its original height.
In addition, pools with thick walls and reinforced uprights also tend to last longer because they are more resistant to corrosion and damage from the elements. Finally, it is important to keep up with maintenance, such as covering the pool when not in use and checking the water chemistry on a regular basis.
This can help the pool last longer and remain usable for many years.
Can I leave my Intex pool up all winter?
No, it is not recommended to leave your Intex pool up all winter. Winterizing and properly storing your Intex pool during the colder months is the best way to ensure the longevity of your pool. When water is exposed to freezing temperatures it can cause the pool walls to crack and become damaged.
Additionally, excess snow and ice can accumulate which can put stress on the sides of the pool resulting in unwanted stress and possibly cracking. First, you will want to drain your pool and use a pool cover to protect it from falling debris such as leaves and branches.
Second, remove all the components including hoses, pumps, filters, dividers, ladders and any other components attached to the pool. Third, clean and store the components safely until the spring. It is important to make sure that the pool is stored somewhere where it will not be exposed to freezing temperatures.
Fourth, use a winterizing product to help protect your pool from the cold weather and to ensure that it is safe for the spring. Following these steps will help ensure that your Intex pool is ready to be enjoyed in the upcoming spring.
Should I take down my Intex pool for winter?
It is up to you whether to take down your Intex pool for winter. If you live in an area that sees severe winter climates, it is recommended that you take down your pool for the season. This is because temperatures below freezing can cause damage to the liner and the pump.
Additionally, debris such as leaves, sticks, and other winter debris can accumulate in the pool, leading to potential damage to the liner or pump as well. Finally, when the ice freezes in the winter, it will put extra strain on the pool walls, potentially causing them to collapse.
In areas with milder winters, it is possible to leave the pool up if it is properly winterized. This includes draining the water from the pool and disconnecting the pump and filter. Additionally, you should cover the pool with a pool cover to protect it from blowing debris and animals.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to take down your Intex pool for winter is up to you. Consider the climate in your area, as well as the potential damage that could occur if left up, when deciding what to do.
Will above-ground pool collapse without water?
No, an above-ground pool will not collapse without water. The structure of an above ground pool relies on the materials used in the construction, such as metal, plastic, or wood. It will remain standing without water as long as the material used is of sufficient quality and strength and remains in good condition.
Depending on the climate and season, the water in an above ground pool can evaporate due to the hot weather, and the pool can still remain standing and in good condition. This is because the force of gravity alone is not enough to cause the walls of an above ground pool to collapse.
If the wall or other parts of the pool were to become weak due to the wear and tear of natural and man-made events, then the pool may collapse. It is important to inspect the pool and all its components regularly for wear, tear, and corrosion to ensure optimum safety.
How do you winterize a pool without draining it?
Winterizing a swimming pool without draining it is possible, although it is important to remember that draining a swimming pool occasionally (every 3-5 years) is highly recommended. To winterize a pool without draining it, the following steps should be taken:
1. Clean the pool thoroughly by brushing the walls and floor and running the vacuum, to be sure that it is as clean as possible before winterizing.
2. Balance the pool water chemistry, checking the pH, alkalinity, pH, and chlorine levels, to ensure that the pool is safe for winter storage.
3. Add a residual algaecide to the water, to prevent any algae growth during the winter months.
4. Lower the water level in the pool to just below the skimmer, to reduce the chances of the pool freezing and cracking.
5. Place a winter cover over the pool, with the cover weighted down with water-filled cover bags to prevent accumulation of snow on the cover. Be sure to also add a floating chemical feeder to the water to dispense additional winter chemicals onto the surface of the cover after heavy rain or snow storms.
6. Run the filter to circulate and filter the water, to reduce strain on the plumbing and pump.
7. Add an oxidizer to the water, to remove any chlorine and other pool chemicals and help the water maintain its clarity.
Following these steps will help ensure that the pool is successfully winterized, without the need to drain it.
What happens if you don’t close your pool in the winter?
If you don’t close your pool in the winter there will be a lot of potential risks and damages that can occur. The water in the pool can freeze which could cause the tile, plaster, and more to crack and even burst.
This is because when the water freezes, it expands and can break even the strongest material. The pool liner can also be affected by freezing, and can tear or rip, making it unsafe and necessitating an expensive replacement.
Additionally, if not properly closed, the pool can be easily accessed and used by unauthorized persons who may not take proper safety precautions, leading to injury or even drowning. Chemicals and algae can also build up in the pool and cause serious health risks such as rashes and eye irritation.
Last but not least, not closing the pool can result in more extensive damage due to inclement weather such as heavy rain, strong winds and snow, leading to more repairs being needed. Taking the time to properly close your pool during the winter is essential to protect against costly damage, safety risks, and health concerns.
Is it okay to leave above-ground pool empty?
No, it is not okay to leave an above-ground pool empty. While it can be tempting to do so when you are finished with it for the season or your family is taking an extended break from swimming, there are some important considerations you need to take into account.
An empty pool is much more vulnerable to bad weather and changes in the ground surface due to temperature variations, causing it to start to sag, bend or even collapse. The liner can become loose and develop wrinkles, leading to holes or tears where algae and bacteria can settle in.
If you live in an area with frequent floods, an empty pool is also more susceptible to being filled with debris or silt which further increases the likelihood of it leaking or collapsing. Additionally, any remaining water in the pool can freeze in cold temperatures, which can increase the pressure on the sides or bottom of the pool and cause it to warp or become rusted.
Therefore, if you plan to leave the pool idle, it is best to ensure it is properly filled and maintained to minimize the risk of any potential damage.