First time closing pool.

[chazerc]

Hey everybody. I'm a new pool owner this year, and these forums have been a great asset for me. With the temps beginning to drop, I want to know what I need to do to close my pool for the winter when the time comes. I have fence rails mounted to the side of my pool, and a step system installed as well. Here is what I can think to ask:

1: When do I close? Is it based on AVG temperature for the day or something?

2: Do I really need to get a cover?
2a: If I really need to cover, how do I go about covering without removing the steps and fence rails?
2b: Do I need pillow under the center? What are these for exactly?

3: What do I do with the skimmer, pump, and cartridge filter? None of it is removable as it is flex PVC that's glued to all openings.

4: Do I need to shock before closing?

 

[jblizzle]

Welcome to TFP!!!

I have never closed, but have a few thoughts.

1. It is based on your water temp. You want it below 60 degrees.
2. I think most people use a cover, the pillow is so that water runs off the cover and does not pool
3. Depends on your climate ... in TN, you may be able to get away with not even closing and just run the pump when the temp drops below freezing.
4. Not sure what you mean by "shock" ... we try to avoid that term

Take a look at the links in Pool School:
Pool School - Closing (Winterizing) Your Above Ground Pool