How to Winterize a Year-Round Above Ground Pool

If you own a Bestway® Hydrium™ steel wall pool, APX 365™ steel frame pool or TANX™ stock tank pool, which are designed to stay up year-round, you will need to take a few simple steps to properly winterize your pool before freezing temperatures hit.

All these popular, year-round pools are constructed with corrosion-resistant galvanized steel, providing superior rust resistance for long-term durability. They also feature innovative Polar-Shield™ weather defense to keep the liner flexible, so it won’t crack during the coldest winter months.

What does that mean to you? You never have to completely drain your pool!

Once you've made that last splash of the season, save this article and follow these simple steps to prepare your above ground pool for outdoor temperatures around 32ºF (0ºC) or below:

Step 1: Clean the water to ensure it’s free of debris and any potential hazards that could cause damage to the pool.

Step 2: Disconnect the filtration system and other pool accessories from the pool.

Step 3: Drain the water to the level indicated in your pool's manual.

• Hydrium Pools: Ensure the water level is at least 4 in. (10 cm) lower than the pool’s A inlet valve.
• TANX Pools: Ensure the water level is at least 2 in. (5 cm) lower than the pool’s A inlet valve.
• APX 365 Pools: Ensure the water level is at least 4 in. (10 cm) lower than the pool’s B outlet valves.

Important Note: If the water level is above the pool's A inlet or B outlet valves, the water may freeze inside and cause damage to the pool liner when the ice expands, which will void the manufacturer's warranty.

How To Drain Your Above Ground Pool

Drain the water away from your house and any other objects that are subject to water damage. With one end of the garden hose submerged in the pool, make sure it's long enough to reach the desired draining location. Check your local regulations for drainage bylaws.

Hydrium Pools

1. Using a garden hose (not included), slowly immerse one end into the water along the side of the pool until the entire hose is underwater.
2. Hold the hose under the water until the bubbles stop to make sure all air has been removed from the hose.
3. Cover one end of the hose and slowly remove it from the water. Keep it covered while moving the exposed end to the desired draining location.
4. Remove your hand, and the water will begin draining.
   

TANX Pools

1. Unscrew the cap on the drainpipe.
2. Connect the hose to the drainpipe.
3. Open the bottom drain valve from inside the pool and begin draining.

APX 365 Pools

1. Unscrew the cap of the drain valve.
2. Connect the drain valve adapter to the hose, then to the drain valve, and begin draining.

Step 4: Place an inflatable item made of cold-resistant material, such as a pool pillow (not included with Bestway pools), on the water’s surface to compensate for the space between the water level and the top rails. Doing this will ensure the pool cover is supported.

Important Notes:

• If there is already ice in the water, remove it carefully, as the sharp edges can break and damage the pool liner.
• If it rains, recheck the water level to ensure it remains within the requested range.
• If it isn’t, drain more water to get it back to the appropriate level.

Step 5: Put on the pool cover to prevent any dust and debris from falling into the pool.

Step 6: Store the filter pump and any other pool accessories. 

Filter Pump Storage Instructions

Remove all the accessories and be sure that the filter pump, hoses and debris screens are completely clean and dry before storing. If all parts are not completely dry, they may become moldy.

Cartridge Filter Pump

Remove and throw away the filter cartridge. Start fresh with a new filter next pool season.

Sand Filter Pump

Remove and allow the sand to dry, then store the pump in a dry place until the next pool season.

All filter pumps, regardless of type, should be disassembled when the ambient temperature is below 50ºF (10ºC). Store the filter pump in a dry place with a moderate temperature between 50ºF (10ºC) and 100ºF (38ºC).

By taking a few simple steps before winter arrives, you can help protect your year-round pool from cold-weather damage and make enjoying it next pool season even easier. When warmer temperatures return, your pool will be ready for another summer of swimming, relaxing and making memories in your backyard oasis.