1. SAND FILTERS: Remove plugs from filter and pump. These will be located at the lower area on both stems however exact locations are different on each brand. Place backwash valve between two positions on the backwash valve, if so equipped, to allow water to drain from the valve. If your filter has a push-pull type valve put the handle in a position between the filter and backwash positions. Sand systems are not required to be stored indoors and due to the weight of the tank with sand it is usually prohibitive to do so.
2. CARTRIDGE FILTERS: Remove plugs from filter container and pump. It is advisable to remove cartridge and clean it prior to storing. The cartridge systems are not required to be stored indoors, but are usually light enough to move if you so desire.
3. FROG SYSTEM (if equipped): Remove plug located on bottom, remove low chlorine pack if so equipped.
4. LOWER WATER LEVEL: Lower water level beneath mouth of skimmer. If you do not wish to lose the water we offer a kit that mounts over the mouth of the skimmer for most of the brands that we have offered over the years. However, by disconnecting the hose from the bottom of the skimmer any excess water that accumulates in the pool will enter the skimmer and drain out the bottom.
   The inlet will need to be plugged to keep any water from entering the filter return hose and the filter.
   Make sure all water is removed from any filter hoses left connected.
5. CHEMICAL MAINTENANCE (Chlorine Based): Maintain a chlorine residual and proper pH balance through the winter months. A chlorine floater will help with the chlorine aspect if the pool is not exposed. If the pool has a cover we do not recommend the use of a floater as it can become lodged and bleach a spot in the bottom of the pool. Even in an uncovered pool this is possible so a periodic visit once every couple of weeks is highly recommended to make sure this situation does not exist.
   If the pool is covered or to make sure that you do not have a bleaching problem we recommend adding granular chlorine in the following manner:
   1. COVERED POOLS: Super chlorinate by adding 1.5 oz per 1000 gallons prior to covering. If equipment is still operational add to surface in front of return inlet, if not premix in a clean bucked that has not been used for any other chemical purpose and pour around the edge of the pool. A precautionary measure would be to check your chlorine reading ever couple of months and if any is needed add by the premix method at the locations you have the cover pulled back at.
   2. UNCOVERED POOLS: It is advised to bring a water sample to our store for computerized water analysis to determine what is needed to properly treat your Softswim pool prior to closing.

Please consult the instructions for your individual pool for additional information and instructions.