Rookie Mistake

[mcuffe0234]

I’m just realizing now that I made a big rookie mistake. Last year was our first year owning an above ground pool. I have a sand filter that I didn’t winterize. I just drained all the water out and then closed it back up and stored it in our screen porch. We live in MN so we have pretty harsh weather conditions. I’m getting ready to set up the pool this weekend and I’m wondering what the signs are of a damaged filter from not winterizing? Anything significant I should do before setting up? I was planning to deep clean it, if that’s necessary? Thanks for any input!

 

[ajw22]

Inspect carefully for cracks from freezing before you set it up and then after you get it running.

 

[mcuffe0234]

Inspect carefully for cracks from freezing before you set it up and then after you get it running.

Thank you! I’ll be checking today!

 

[Texas Splash]

You might also keep an eye on the pressure gauge if it has one. Those gauges can get wonky after large temperature changes. The needle should increase when running and fall completely to zero when turned off. Good luck opening.

Opening your pool- An easy to follow guide

Opening your pool can be stressful. This Pool Start Up guide teaches everything from start-up chemicals, covers, and more for your start up.

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[mcuffe0234]

You might also keep an eye on the pressure gauge if it has one. Those gauges can get wonky after large temperature changes. The needle should increase when running and fall completely to zero when turned off. Good luck opening.

Opening your pool- An easy to follow guide

Opening your pool can be stressful. This Pool Start Up guide teaches everything from start-up chemicals, covers, and more for your start up.

www.troublefreepool.com

Good call! Do you think there would be pressure in there from over the winter? Should I release that before trying to deep clean?

 

[Texas Splash]

Do you think there would be pressure in there from over the winter? Should I release that before trying to deep clean?

Should be no pressure in the filter since you had everything winterized. You can open the air relief (if installed) or loosen the drain plug for a moment if you wish to see. Good luck on your deep clean. Take your time and be careful inserting the garden hose down there as not to mess-up a lateral. Nice & easy.

 

[SDor]

I’m just realizing now that I made a big rookie mistake. Last year was our first year owning an above ground pool. I have a sand filter that I didn’t winterize. I just drained all the water out and then closed it back up and stored it in our screen porch. We live in MN so we have pretty harsh weather conditions. I’m getting ready to set up the pool this weekend and I’m wondering what the signs are of a damaged filter from not winterizing? Anything significant I should do before setting up? I was planning to deep clean it, if that’s necessary? Thanks for any input!

Out of curiosity, what else is there to do to winterize a sand filter other than drain the water? That's all I've been doing for 15 years... although, I do leave the drain plug out all winter because the water drains slowly.