Winterizing Kits for In-Ground Pools

Remove all leaves and debris in the pool with a pool skimmer. Remove the dirt and debris from the bottom of the pool with a pool vacuum. If the pool has algae growth, pour an algaecide into the pool water per the directions on the chemical's bottle.

Test the pH balance of the pool with a pH strip. The universal recommended pH level for swimming pool water is between 7.2 and 7.6. Stop adding chlorine to the pool 24 hours before winterizing.

Open the bottle of winter control or winterizer. Pour the chemical slowly into the pool while walking around the perimeter of the pool. This will help distribute the chemical evenly through the water.

Pour the rust and scale preventer slowly into the water of the pool while walking around the perimeter of the pool. Wait 15 minutes before continuing with the remaining steps.

Add the winterizing shock to the pool while walking along the perimeter of the swimming pool. Run the pool’s pump for 1 hour to distribute the chemicals throughout the pool.

Lower the water level and drain the lines. Refer to your swimming pool's owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s instructions for lowering the water level in the pool and draining the pump, lines, heater and filter for winter preparation.

Grasp the floating dispenser in one hand and carefully punch holes at the indicated areas with a knife. Push the dispenser through the middle of the foam collar, sliding the collar to the middle of the dispenser. Set the floating dispenser in the pool with the smaller end down inside the water. If your winterizing kit does not include a floating dispenser, skip this step.

Cover the inground pool with the winter pool cover.