How to Properly Winterize Your Pump & Sand Filter

As winter approaches, our attention shifts to ensuring our pool equipment is safely stored and prepared for the colder months. Leaving water in your sand filtration system might lead to cracks, affecting its performance next season. This guide will show you how to protect your sand filter system from winter’s challenges.

Key Takeaways:
1. Draining every drop of water from your pool equipment is paramount.
2. Properly winterize the sand filter to prevent freeze damage.
3. Store the equipment safely, especially considering the weight of filled sand filters.

Step-by-Step Process:
1. Prep: After ensuring that your pool is winterized, start by disconnecting the hoses from the skimmer, return, and all related fittings of the pump and filter.
2. Sand Filter Draining: Open the drain cap at the sand tank’s bottom and allow the water to drain out. For storage, leave this drain cap off.
3. Setting the Valve: Rotate the valve on the top of the sand filter to the “WINTERIZE” position. This ensures your sand filter is ready for the winter.
4. Detaching the Pump: Start by removing the 2 screws securing the pump to its base. Use a flat-head screwdriver to take out the drain plug located at the pump strainer housing’s bottom. Take off the pump’s lid and tilt the pump to drain all remaining water.
5. Cleaning and Storing: Using a cloth, wipe down every component of the pump and filter system, ensuring no water remains. It's wise to store hose clamps and small plugs inside the pump strainer housing for easy access next season.
6. Storage Caution: Sand filters, when filled, can be hefty. While the winterizing process generally offers protection, it's advised to use two adults or a special lifting device to move the system. Store in a location away from winter elements to maximize protection.

FAQs:
Q1: Why is it crucial to drain the sand filter system?
A: Water left in the system can freeze, expand, and cause cracks, which affect the system's performance.

Q2: Do I need to replace the drain cap during storage?
A: No, keep the drain cap off during storage.

Q3: Why is there a “WINTERIZE” position on the valve?
A: This position ensures that the internals of the filter are set to best handle and prevent potential winter damages.

Q4: Do I need to remove the sand from the filter before storing?
A: No, you do not need to remove the sand from the filter before storing.

Q5: How should I handle the weight of a filled sand filter during storage?
A: With care. Consider using two adults or a specific lifting device to safely move and store it.

Q6. What are some general signs that indicate my filtration system wasn't winterized properly?
A: Visible cracks, water leakage during startup, and decreased filtration efficiency can all hint at potential winter damage. Regular checks and preventive winterizing can help avoid these issues.

If you have any questions about winterizing your sand filter or pump, feel free to contact your local Great Escape team!

For additional help with winterizing your pool and equipment, please view the following tutorials:
1. Winterize Your ProVision System    • Winterize Your ProVision System  
2. How to Winterize a Pool    • Protecting Your Pool with the Winteri...  
3. How to Winterize a Skimmer & Return    • How to Winterize a Skimmer & Return  
4. Attach a Winter Pillow with Pillow Pal    • Securing a Winter Pillow with Pillow Pal  
5. How to Apply a Winter Cover    • Winter Shield: Securing Your Pool Cover