Should I be concern?

[Laziebun]

First year that I closed the pool myself. We are in Illinois and there a periods of below freezing. I didn’t drain below the skimmer as I read mixed reviews.

Suggestions on what to do? Or am I good.

 

[Texas Splash]

With a Gizmo you should be in good shape. If you would like additional peace of mind, cut a pool noodle or similar foam into pieces that you can cram into the skimmer to protect against water freeze expansion.

 

[Newdude]

Is your cover solid or permeable?

If it's permeable, we get 1.5 to 3 ft of off season accumulation in the parts of the country that close. Water in, needs to be taken out. It's your choice whether you'd prefer two 1 ft drains, or four 6 inch drains. (Etc etc)

Otherwise you risk liner, patio and steel wall (if applicable) issues when it spends months overflowing.