Filters are your gateway to a clean pool. They remove debris and dirt from your main body of water and as such, should be winterized properly to ensure longevity and efficiency in the upcoming season.
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Protecting Against Freezing
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| Your filter is a giant container and is vulnerable to water expanding as it freezes. The plastic components crack and shatter if not winterized properly. | |
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Sand Filters (Most Common on Above Ground Pools)
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| Step 1: Unscrew and remove the drain cap. This is usually found on the bottom of the large sand container. Water will begin to pour out. This cap should be left off. | |
| Step 2: If you have quick disconnect fittings loosen them and allow any water to drain out of the hoses. Set the filter head to "winter" or "winterize". This lifts the spider gasket inside off its seat for the winter. | |
| Step 3: Use the proper sized wrench to remove the pressure gauge and remove the sight glass by hand (Don't lose the gasket). These can all be placed in the pump basket for safe keeping once the pump is closed. | |
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Step 4: Loosen the split clamp holding the head to the sand vessel but do not remove it. This will allow for any pressure to shift the head and escape rather than cause damage. |
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Step 5: (Optional) A simple procedure to complete before draining the sand vessel would be to clean the sand. Use a sand filter cleaner to clean the sand. Follow the steps on the cleaner. Then return to Step 2. |
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Cartridge Filters (Most Common on Inground Pools) |
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Step 1: Unscrew and remove the drain cap. This is usually found on the bottom of the vessel. It is also a good idea to open the breather. Water will begin to pour out. This cap should be left off if there is a blocker in the port, if not screw the cap back on loosely to allow air to circulate. |
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Step 2: Loosen the hose fittings on the filter but do not leave removed as small critters and rodents will use the filter vessel as a home for the winter. |
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Step 3: Use the proper sized wrench to remove the pressure gauge. Remove the o-rings from the unions. These should be put in the pump basket for safe keeping, in a bag with bit of lube to protect the o-rings from drying out. |
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Step 4: Loosen the split clamp holding the head of the vessel on the base and remove the paper filters. Be careful not to damage the air breather when removing the filters. The filters can be stored (once dried) in the basement, shed or garage. |
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(Optional Step) A beneficial step to take before storing the paper filters would be to clean the paper filters in a cartridge filter cleaner, so the filters are clean and ready for when you open in the Spring. |
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Step 5: Place the upper body back on the bottom half and loosely secure the split clamp or nut in pace. |