- Most aboveground pools are permanent fixtures that have a vinyl liner stretched across the entire pool. These types of pools are remarkably durable and not meant to be drained for the winter. The force of the water against the walls keeps the liner flat and wrinkle-free. When the pool water drains, the liner could shrink and cause wrinkles or folds that could turn into leaks and tears. Once the liner dries, it will pull away from the wall and not fit properly again. The most dangerous thing about draining an aboveground pool is the possibility of the metal walls collapsing.
- Inflatable ring pools are soft-sided pools with a large ring around the top. These pools are often called easy-set or fast-set pools because they are extremely quick to set up. These pools are not meant to be kept open during the winter because the walls are particularly sensitive to damage from ice or snow. The ring of the pool keeps water inside when large amounts of snow fall on top, for example. If your area does not get below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, the pool can stay up year-round. If temperatures in your area fall below this threshold, drain the pool and store it for the winter.
- Metal frame pools are a midpoint between the metal wall pools and inflatable ring pools. These have liners composed of PVC material liner and held together by interlocking metal support beams, the only framework for the pool. Since metal frame pools have the same type of liner as an inflatable pool, they are just as susceptible to damage from snow and ice. In colder temperatures, the liner can become brittle and crack. It is best to drain these types of pools and store them for the winter.
- Winterizing an aboveground pool is the process of preparing the pool to survive winter's colder temperatures. Start by balancing the pool water to avoid scaling or corrosion while the pool is not in use. Use a pool test kit to assess the water, then add chemicals to balance it. The pH should be 7.2 to 7.6 pH, alkalinity 80 to 120 parts per million (ppm) and residual chlorine 1 to 3 ppm. Remove all ladders and scrub the walls and floor of the pool. Vacuum the pool and add winterizing chemicals, which are available in winterizing kits where pool supplies are purchased. Clean the filter and skimmer, remove any chlorine tablets in the skimmer and drain the water to just below the skimmer. Remove any flexible hoses and inflate an air cushion to put in the center of the pool. Cover the pool with a winter cover and tie or secure the cover in place.
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