• A swimming pool cover is only one part of the winterizing process.swimming pool cover image by Alison Bowden from Fotolia.com
  
  Above ground pools require less maintenance in the winter than in the summer, but they do need some careful attention before being covered up for the cold season. These steps are necessary to protect the pool from disintegration and to lessen the care needed once the warm weather arrives again. Your above ground pool will be ready to go with only a few steps more.
  
  

Chemical Balancing

• "Backyard City Pools" explains that the first step in winterizing your above ground pool is to ensure the water is chemically balanced. This will prevent corrosion and scale buildup while the pool is covered up. It will save time and money when it is opened again in the spring or summer. They also offer the correct chemical levels that your water should be at to protect your pool: pH: 7.2-7.6, Alkalinity: 80-120 parts per million, Calcium Hardness: 175-250 parts per million and Chlorine: 1-3 parts per million. Add in winterizing chemicals to further protect the water quality.
  
  

Equipment Removal

• Remove all equipment that is attached or around the pool such as ladders, railings and any other accessories. Also make sure the pool is clear of any debris or toys.
  
  

Cleaning

• Clean your pool by brushing the sides and vacuuming any debris that might be at the bottom. Anything left inside might cause staining. The pool should not contain anything except chemically balanced water. "Backyard City Pools" advises never fully draining an above ground pool as it can cause it to collapse. Clean all pool equipment especially the filter and skimmers.
  
  

Storage

• Remove all hoses, plumbing connections and follow the instructions for your specific pool. Make sure all water is drained out of the connections and there is no leakage within as that water could remain and turn to ice, compromising the structural integrity of the pool.
  
  

Cover Preparation

• "Backyard City Pools" suggests using an air pillow to position the cover. Inflate and tie it taut in at least two places and place it in the center of the pool. Air pillows are a good tool in colder climates in case the water freezes and expands. The water could freeze onto the pillow; otherwise, the frozen water could possibly push out too much against the pool wall, thereby damaging it.
  
  

Winterizing Pool Cover

• The final step is to place an appropriate pool cover over top of your above ground pool. Tie it in place and make sure it is taut. Your pool is now winterized.