How to Use a Pool Winter Kit to Winterize Your Pool

Before using your winter closing kit, make sure your water chemistry is properly balanced and your pool is clear of all algae, dirt, and leaves. Doheny's has the water test strips and water test kits, pool vacuums and cleaners, and leaf skimmers you need! You can find Doheny's Winter Closing Kits in the right size for your pool here.

Follow these steps for a successful pool closing and easier spring opening!

  1. Stop chlorination 24 hours prior to winterization.
  2. Pour an entire bottle of Doheny's Winter Guard into your pool, making sure the product is evenly distributed around the entire pool.
  3. Pour an entire bottle of Doheny's Metal Out into your pool, also making sure the product is evenly distributed.
  4. Wait 15 minutes, then pour all packages of Doheny's Oxidizing Shock into a bucket of water. Then distribute the bucket of water evenly around the perimeter of your pool.
  5. If possible, allow the pump to circulate for at least one hour to ensure all chemicals disperse evenly.
  6. Lower pool water level and drain lines, pump, filter, and heater of all excess water according to manufacturer's instructions. If you use pool pool antifreeze, add it to your plumbing at this time.
  7. Using a screwdriver, punch holes in all dimple locations on the floating dispenser. Slide the foam collar on the bottom of the floating dispenser. Place the floating dispenser in the pool (do not throw), bottom side down. This allows water to flow through the perforated dimples.
  8. Cover pool with a winter cover. Doheny's offers quality Solid and Mesh type winter covers. Note: if spring is unusually warm, lift up one end of the cover and look for signs of algae growth. If detected, an additional dose of Doheny's algaecide should be added.