Do you need a pillow to close above ground pool?

Asked by: Erwin Taylor

Pool air pillows are an essential part of winterizing an above-ground pool, especially if you live in a frosty climate. Without the pool pillow, the expanding ice will put pressure on the walls of your pool causing damage to the sides, the liner, and the cover.

Do you need an air pillow when closing pool?

But it wouldn't hurt to put it in there but you actually don't need it you really only need it to close an above-ground pool. And I highly recommend that.

Does an above ground pool need an air pillow?

Protect Your Above Ground Pool From Expanding Ice



This is the most important reason to use an air pillow in your above ground swimming pool, especially if you live in an area where temperatures get below freezing. When you opt not to use one, the pool cover sits right on top of the water.

Should I use a pillow under my pool cover?

We strongly recommend using an air pillow under your winter cover. The first reason to install a winter cover air pillow is to protect your pool from expanding ice. When you don’t use an air pillow, the cover sits right on top of the water and the ice will want to expand outwards.

Why do you need a pillow in an above ground pool?

Air Pillows are a winter closing essential for aboveground pools in colder climates. This rugged vinyl air pillow absorbs the pressure of freezing and thawing to protect the cover and walls of your pool. When your pool water freezes, the Air Pillow compresses to relieve pressure on your pool walls.

What can I use instead of a pool pillow?

You may have heard pool owners recommend alternatives to pool air pillows, such as tire tubes, yoga balls, or regular innertubes.

What happens if my pool pillow deflated?

Do not get worried if your pool pillow has popped or deflated. This just means that the pillow has done its job! The purpose of the pool pillow is to compensate for the rain, snow or ice in your pool and on your cover.

How do I keep my air pillow in the middle of my pool?

It's really flat. So basically if you put your hands through it or step on it you should be able to hit the ground. If you can't it's too full because what happened is once you start getting all that

How do you attach a pool pillow?

So we'll take the pillow pal out and attach it the velcro piece to the end the side of the pool cover okay so we have the corner of the pool to the other side of the liner.

How do you close an above-ground pool for the winter?

How to Close Your Above Ground Pool in 10 Steps

1. Step 1: Deep Clean. …
2. Step 2: Balance your Water. …
3. Step 3: Add Winterizing Chemicals. …
4. Step 4: Add Pump Protector. …
5. Step 5: Protect Your Return and Skimmer. …
6. Step 6: Prepare Your Filter for Hibernation. …
7. Step 7: Clear the Pool. …
8. Step 8: Set Up Ice Equalizer Pillow.

What happens if you don’t winterize your above-ground pool?

Without winterizing your pool, the water could turn green with algae. If the chlorine system stops functioning, you’ll say adieu to the beautiful blue pool you know and love. Come spring, your pool will be a homely sight and cause a real dent in your wallet. Bacteria that feed on algae could even cause health risks.

Can I leave my above-ground pool uncovered in winter?

No, but winter covers protect your pool from stains, algae growth and poor water balance that could damage pool surfaces. Pool covers block both debris and sunlight, to conserve your winter chemicals and protect soft and shiny surfaces.

Should you shock pool before closing?

Shock and Chlorinate Your Pool



Shocking kills any bacteria that might linger in your pool during the winter. We recommend shocking a few days before you close the pool. If that is not possible, make sure to shock the pool the night before you close it for winter.

How do you prepare a pool for closing?

Ten Steps to Closing your Pool the Right Way

1. Balance water chemistry: The week you’re closing your pool, make sure your water falls within the ranges below. …
2. Add shock and algaecide: …
3. Clean pool: …
4. Store equipment: …
5. Lower water level: …
6. Drain pump, filter, chlorination and heating equipment: …
7. Lubricate: …
8. Winterize plumbing:

What month should I close my pool?

Freezing temperatures



September and October are a good time to close the pool because the weather is ideal. It’s still warm to be outside, enjoying the sun, even if you hate to say goodbye to summer. But once those temperatures start dropping significantly, you’re going to kick yourself for not closing the pool sooner.

Can you close your pool if it is green?

Closing a Pool with Green Water



No, not really. Why? Because closing a pool when its green is going to give you an even bigger problem in the spring or the next time you open it. When you are experiencing cooler, fall like temperatures, it takes longer for the chlorine and other chemicals to evaporate.

Will baking soda clear a green pool?

Will baking soda clear a green pool? No. Baking soda will only raise your alkalinity and pH levels and this will not kill algae.

Can I close my pool with leaves in it?

Closing a pool with leaves or acorns in the bottom will likely lead to a stained pool bottom. Winterizing the Equipment and Piping-It is imperative that the equipment be properly winterized. Failing to winterize the pump and filter will likely lead to freeze damage resulting in costly repairs.

Does covering pool prevent algae?

Keep it covered.



Covering the pool is a good way to prevent algae growth. The right cover keeps algae from entering the pool, but it also keeps leaves, bugs, bacteria, and dirt from decomposing in the pool, providing algae with food.

Will a black tarp heat my pool?

A swimming pool tarp, for example, that’s black on both sides is like a giant solar panel. Because a black tarp on a swimming pool’s water surface traps solar heat energy, it will eventually turn cool, refreshing pool water into a tepid, warm bath.

Can you swim in a pool with algae?

Algae can be very slippery, causing swimmers to fall resulting in bumps, bruises, cuts and even broken bones. Don’t try to swim in a pool that’s full of algae. Besides causing injuries, an algae infested pool creates a higher risk of drowning for those who are not expert swimmers or those who fall unconscious.