10 Essential Tools for Winterizing an Inground Swimming Pool

As the autumn leaves fall and the air turns crisp, the backyard pool transforms from a summer oasis into a liability waiting to freeze. Skipping or rushing the winterization process invites cracked pipes, ruined liners, and a green swamp come spring. Equipping the gear shed with the right tools ensures the pool remains protected against the harshest winter elements.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!

Why Proper Winterization Prevents Costly Spring Repairs

Closing an inground pool is not just about throwing a tarp over the water and hoping for the best. Water expands by nearly nine percent when it freezes, exerting immense pressure on PVC pipes, skimmer walls, and filtration equipment. Without proper preparation, that expansion leads to underground pipe ruptures that require thousands of dollars in excavation and concrete work to repair.

Additionally, stagnant water left untreated becomes a breeding ground for algae and bacteria as soon as the weather warms up in early spring. Properly winterizing means removing water from vulnerable plumbing lines, sealing openings, chemically treating the remaining water, and securing a heavy-duty cover. Investing in commercial-grade closing tools now saves weeks of labor and massive repair bills when the swim season returns.

Pool Safety Cover – Loop-Loc Mesh Safety Cover

A solid barrier is the first line of defense against winter debris, heavy snow loads, and accidental falls. Standard tarp covers held down by water bags easily tear and slide, turning the pool into a dangerous hazard. A tension-secured safety cover keeps kids and pets safe while preventing heavy winds from lifting the cover and dumping leaves into the water.

The Loop-Loc Mesh Safety Cover excels because of its legendary strength, often dubbed the “bubble top” for its ability to support incredible weight. Its high-density mesh fabric filters out debris while letting rain and melting snow drain through, preventing dangerous water accumulation on top. The brass anchors sit flush with the pool deck when not in use, offering a clean, professional look.

• Material: Polyester-bonded thread with double-perimeter webbing
• Break Strength: Exceeds ASTM safety standards (F1346-91)
• Debris Block: Micro-mesh blocks up to 99% of sunlight to inhibit algae growth

Before purchasing, precise measurements of the pool’s coping and deck space are required, as these covers rely on anchored tension. This mesh cover is perfect for homeowners in high-snow areas who want safety without the hassle of pumping off accumulated meltwater. However, it is not ideal for those who prefer a 100% dry pool basin that blocks all fine dust and light rain.

Pool Cover Pump – Wayne WAPC250 Pool Cover Pump

When water accumulates on a solid pool cover, it creates a drowning hazard, strains the cover anchors, and attracts breeding pests. Safely evacuating this water before it freezes solid is crucial for preserving the cover’s structural integrity. A reliable pump automates this chore, operating silently in freezing conditions without needing constant monitoring.

The Wayne WAPC250 Pool Cover Pump features smart sensing technology that automatically turns the pump on when water reaches 2.1 inches and off when the level drops below 0.75 inches. Its oil-free design prevents environmental contamination in the backyard, while the wide, weighted base keeps the pump upright even under heavy flow. The built-in strain shield filters out leaves and twigs, protecting the impeller from locking up.

• Flow Rate: Up to 3,000 gallons per hour
• Power Cord: 25-foot heavy-duty power cable
• Discharge Connection: Standard 3/4-inch garden hose adapter with check valve

To keep this unit operating efficiently, the intake screen must be cleared of pine needles and leaves periodically during heavy autumn shedding. Freezing temperatures will not damage the pump itself, but leaving a garden hose attached during a deep freeze can cause ice blockages. This pump is a must-have for anyone utilizing solid winter covers, but it is unnecessary for those using free-draining mesh safety covers.

Pipe Line Blower – Cyclone 3 HP Bypass Blower

Clearing water from underground plumbing lines is the most critical step in preventing catastrophic freeze damage. Standard shop vacuums lack the pressure needed to push water out of deep main drains and long plumbing runs. A dedicated bypass blower forces air through the pipes, ensuring not a single drop remains to freeze and crack the PVC.

The Cyclone 3 HP Bypass Blower delivers a powerful, consistent stream of air specifically designed for winterizing pools. Unlike standard blowers, its bypass motor uses a separate fan to cool the engine, preventing overheating even when backpressure builds up in clogged lines. The rugged plastic housing withstands rough handling on concrete pool decks and wet grass.

• Motor Rating: 3.0 Horsepower, 120 Volt
• Airflow: 140 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) at open flow
• Hose Connection: 2-inch quick-disconnect fitting

Operating this blower requires a brief learning curve to master the sequence of opening and closing valves at the pool pad. If air is blown in the wrong direction, it can blow out pool gaskets or damage multi-port valves. This professional-grade tool is ideal for DIY pool owners committed to closing their own pools year after year, saving hundreds in professional service fees.

Winterizing Plugs – Anderson Expansion Plugs

Once the plumbing lines are blown clear of water, they must be sealed airtight to prevent water from seeping back in from the pool. Standard plastic threaded plugs often leak or crack under freezing pressure, allowing water to slowly refill the lines. Expandable rubber plugs create a watertight seal that adapts to the natural expansion and contraction of pool fittings.

Anderson Expansion Plugs are constructed with heavy-duty nylon wing nuts and stainless steel bolts that resist rust and corrosion in chlorinated water. The premium rubber body expands evenly when tightened, creating a reliable, multi-tiered barrier against water intrusion. Their tapered design allows them to fit easily into non-threaded pipe ends, returns, and cleaner lines.

• Material: Heavy-duty vulcanized rubber with stainless steel hardware
• Available Sizes: #00 (1/2-inch) up to #14 (4-inch)
• Application: Pool return jets, cleaner lines, and skimmer bottoms

Selecting the correct size is crucial, as an oversized plug will not seat deeply enough, while an undersized one can blow out under air pressure. Always measure the interior diameter of the return jets before buying a winterizing kit. These plugs are perfect for anyone looking for a reliable, reusable sealing solution that holds up against chemical degradation and freezing temperatures.

Skimmer Guard – Gizzmo Super Gizzmo Skimmer Guard

The pool skimmer is particularly vulnerable to ice damage because it sits right at the freezing water line. As ice expands inside the skimmer throat, it can easily crack the plastic housing, leading to a major underground leak. A skimmer guard acts as a sacrificial compression chamber, absorbing the expansion pressure of the ice to protect the skimmer walls.

The Gizzmo Super Gizzmo Skimmer Guard features a heavy-duty, hollow plastic tube design that collapses under the pressure of freezing water instead of allowing the skimmer wall to break. The integrated 1.5-inch and 2-inch threads at the bottom seal the skimmer line directly, eliminating the need for a separate plug. Its built-in blow-through valve allows pool owners to blow out the lines with the Gizzmo already in place.

• Length: 16 inches for deep-throat skimmers
• Threads: Dual 1.5-inch and 2-inch tapered male threads
• Material: High-density, freeze-tolerant polyethylene

Make sure to apply Teflon tape to the threads before installation to ensure a completely airtight and watertight seal. This tool is essential for inground pools in northern climates where sustained, deep freezes occur. It is not necessary for pool owners in mild southern climates where pool water rarely freezes more than a fraction of an inch.

Winterizing Chemical Kit – In The Swim Closing Kit

Leaving pool water untreated over the winter guarantees a green, murky mess when the cover is pulled back in the spring. Algae spores and bacteria thrive in stagnant water, especially as temperatures begin to rise before the pool is officially opened. A pre-measured chemical kit provides a slow-release defense system that keeps the water clear and chemically balanced for months.

The In The Swim Closing Kit contains a powerful combination of winterizer algaecide, pool shock, and a slow-releasing chemical floater. The non-metallic algaecide prevents staining on liner surfaces, while the chlorine-free shock oxidizes organic contaminants without bleaching the pool finish. The unique winter floater slowly dispenses sanitizer over the cold months, preventing chemical hot spots.

• Pool Capacity Ratings: Kits available for pools up to 10,000, 20,000, and 35,000 gallons
• Included Components: Winter shock, winterizer, metal-free stain remover, and winter floater
• Compatibility: Safe for vinyl liners, fiberglass, and plaster pools

For maximum effectiveness, the pool water must be thoroughly balanced and vacuumed clean of organic debris before adding these chemicals. Adding chemicals to a dirty pool with unbalanced pH limits their efficacy. This kit is perfect for busy homeowners looking for a convenient, all-in-one chemical regimen that simplifies spring start-up.

Pool Antifreeze – Splash RV and Marine Antifreeze

Even after blowing out plumbing lines, small pockets of water can accumulate in low-lying pipe elbows due to condensation or minor leaks. If this residual water freezes, it can still split the PVC pipes underground. Adding specialized pool antifreeze to the cleared lines acts as insurance, preventing any remaining water from freezing solid.

Splash RV and Marine Antifreeze is formulated with non-toxic propylene glycol, making it completely safe for swimming pool systems and the surrounding environment. It provides burst protection down to -50°F, ensuring pipes remain intact even during extreme polar vortex events. Unlike automotive antifreeze, it is biodegradable and will not damage pool plumbing, vinyl liners, or filtration equipment.

• Freezing Protection: Burst protection down to -50°F (-46°C)
• Chemical Base: Non-toxic propylene glycol
• Safety Standards: Safe for freshwater systems, non-hazardous to soil and turf

Never use ethylene glycol-based automotive antifreeze in a pool, as it is highly toxic to pets and swimmers and will ruin pool filtration elements. The antifreeze must be poured directly into the lines after blowing them out, using a funnel to ensure it reaches deep into the plumbing. This is a critical purchase for pool owners in regions with harsh winters, while those in warmer zones can safely skip this step.

Pool Test Kit – Taylor Technologies K-2006 Kit

Adding closing chemicals to unbalanced pool water is a waste of time and money, as improper pH and alkalinity levels can render sanitizers useless. High acid levels can etch plaster or corrode metal fixtures over the winter, while high pH can cause scale deposits that are incredibly difficult to scrub off. Testing and balancing the chemistry beforehand ensures winter chemicals can do their job effectively.

The Taylor Technologies K-2006 Kit uses precise liquid titrations rather than inaccurate test strips, providing professional-grade accuracy for pool owners. It measures free and combined chlorine, pH, acid/base demand, total alkalinity, calcium hardness, and cyanuric acid levels. The printed color-matching comparator block is easy to read, eliminating the guesswork from chemical adjustments.

• Testing Method: Liquid FAS-DPD titration for high-accuracy chlorine readings
• Included Guide: Waterproof pool care instruction manual and dosage charts
• Reagents: High-quality chemical reagents in easy-pour dropper bottles

The chemical reagents have a limited shelf life and should be replaced annually to maintain testing accuracy. It requires a few minutes to read the instructions and perform the tests, but the precision is well worth the extra effort. This kit is ideal for dedicated pool owners who want total control over their water chemistry, but it may be overkill for those who prefer taking water samples to a local pool store.

Safety Cover Tool – Swimline Safety Cover Rod

Tension-style safety covers rely on heavy-duty brass anchors set into the pool deck, which require significant physical force to secure. Trying to stretch the heavy-duty springs onto these anchors by hand or with makeshift tools is frustrating and highly dangerous. A dedicated safety cover tool provides the necessary leverage to slip the springs over the anchors with minimal effort.

The Swimline Safety Cover Rod is constructed from heavy-gauge, rust-resistant steel designed to withstand intense levering forces. Its long handle reduces back strain by allowing the user to operate the tool while standing upright. The hollow, half-pipe end easily slides over the brass anchor, guiding the tension spring into place with a simple twist of the wrist.

• Length: 30-inch heavy-duty steel shaft
• Handle Grip: Textured non-slip handle for maximum control
• Compatibility: Works with all standard brass safety cover anchors

Be sure to clean the brass deck anchors of dirt and debris before attempting to attach the springs, as grit can cause the tool to slip. Proper technique involves using the foot as a fulcrum to slide the spring down the rod and onto the anchor smoothly. This tool is an absolute necessity for anyone installing a spring-tension safety cover, but it is useless for lightweight tarp covers.

Pool Leaf Rake – ProTuff 18-Inch Pool Rake

Leaving heavy organic debris on the bottom of the pool before closing creates a major demand on winter chemicals, rendering them ineffective within weeks. Rotten leaves release tannins that stain plaster and vinyl, leaving ugly brown marks that require acid washing to remove. A heavy-duty leaf rake allows pool owners to quickly scoop out piles of leaves from the deep end before the cover goes on.

The ProTuff 18-Inch Pool Rake is built around an indestructible aluminum alloy frame that will not twist, bend, or snap under the weight of wet leaves. Its deep, double-stitched nylon mesh bag stands up to abrasions from concrete pool bottoms, holding significantly more debris than cheap plastic skimmers. The curved leading edge easily scoops debris off the bottom without scraping the pool liner.

• Frame Width: 18 inches with a reinforced aluminum inner frame
• Net Material: Rip-resistant, fine-mesh nylon bag
• Warranty: Manufacturer lifetime free replacement guarantee

This rake requires a standard telescoping pole, which must be purchased separately if one is not already on hand. The deep net can become quite heavy when filled with wet leaves, requiring decent upper body strength to lift out of the water. This tool is perfect for any pool owner surrounded by deciduous trees, while those with indoor or screened-in pools can opt for a smaller, lighter skimmer net.

Pro Tips for Storing Your Pool Gear Until Spring

When the closing process is complete, storing summer pool toys, hoses, and maintenance gear properly is essential for ensuring their longevity. Leaving plastic pool floats, vacuum hoses, and solar covers exposed to freezing temperatures causes them to become brittle and crack. Before packing everything away, wash all equipment with fresh water to remove chlorine residue, and let it dry completely to prevent mold growth.

Store delicate items like the automatic pool cleaner, test kits, and chemical floaters in a temperature-controlled space such as a basement or insulated garage. Rodents love nesting in vinyl pool covers and chewing through soft plastic hoses during the winter. Using heavy-duty plastic storage bins with secure lids keeps pests out and protects your investment from moisture damage.

Finally, organize the winterizing tools in a dedicated, dry spot in the shed so they are ready for action next autumn. Keep the safety cover rod, line blower, and spare expansion plugs together to avoid searching for misplaced items during the busy closing weekend. Taking these extra steps ensures a smooth, stress-free opening when the warm spring weather finally returns.

Conclusion

Investing in high-quality pool winterization gear transforms a dreaded weekend chore into a streamlined, highly effective routine. Protecting the pool’s plumbing, shell, and equipment from winter’s freeze ensures a seamless transition back to crystal-clear water when spring arrives. Stock the shed with these essential tools today and rest easy knowing your backyard investment is safe all winter long.