When you close your outdoor pool for the winter you will need to make sure that you protect it from the weather. By taking the right steps it will be ready to re-open and enjoy when the weather is warm again.

All pools differ so it is advisable to contact your local Sunspot dealer as to their recommendation to winterisation of pool and equipment. As a general guide you should plan to:-

1. Partially drain the pool, lowering the water level to about 6 inches below the skimmer to protect pipe fittings, pump and filter from frost.
2. Chemically winterise the pool with Sunspot Super Winterclean Concentrate or Sunspot Wintertop as per the instructions making sure that all chemicals are well distributed. Switch off skimmer and use pump for circulation.
3. Leave the pool water at reduced levels since this will assist in preventing external pressure from damaging the pool structure. Water in the pool will also protect the pool finish from frost.
4. Drain the water from the filter, pipe work, pump and heaters. Remove fittings such as ladders, diving boards and skimmer baskets.
5. To ease the ice pressure, especially in a large pool, place slightly weighted buoyant objects in the pool away from the fides and secure with rope (empty polythene drums are ideal).
6. Fit debris/winter cover. (outdoor pools only).
7. If the pool is uncovered and it freezes, break up the ice gently whilst still thin and keep the pool free from leaves, debris etc.