Notes from the deep end

Practical articles for pool owners on skimming, water testing and choosing the right equipment.

Clear filters

12 articles

Seasonal Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Winterize an Above Ground Pool: 10 Steps for Closing the Pool

Winterizing an above ground pool means cleaning, lowering the water as the manual directs, protecting the pump and filter, and fitting a secure winter cover before freezes begin.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Seasonal Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Winterize an Inground Pool Safely

Winterizing an inground pool means cleaning, checking water balance, lowering the water level as directed, protecting plumbing and equipment, and installing a winter cover.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Seasonal Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Close an Inground Pool for Winter: A Step-by-Step Guide

Close an inground pool by cleaning it thoroughly, checking equipment, following the manual for water level and plumbing, and securing a winter cover before freezing weather.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Seasonal Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Get Water Off a Pool Cover Safely

Use a cover pump or siphon to remove standing water from a pool cover. Turn off the pump first, follow the manual, and stop if the cover is damaged or overloaded.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Seasonal Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How Fast Does a Solar Cover Heat a Pool?

A solar cover warms pool water gradually, not instantly. Its biggest job is usually retaining heat overnight, so the pool stays warmer with less energy loss.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Seasonal Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How Far to Drain an Above-Ground Pool for Winter

Drain only to the winter water level your pool manual recommends—usually below the skimmer and plumbing, but not so low that the liner loses support.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Seasonal Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Drain a Pool Below the Skimmer—and When Not To

There’s no universal safe water level below the skimmer. Learn when a partial drain makes sense, when it can damage the pool, and when to call a pro.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Seasonal Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Cover Pool Equipment Safely for the Off-Season

Cover pool equipment with breathable, weather-resistant protection that blocks debris and sun while still allowing ventilation, access, and routine inspection.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Seasonal Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Keep a Pool Cover from Sagging

Keep a pool cover from sagging by removing standing water and debris, checking tension and anchors, maintaining the right water level, and following the manual.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Seasonal Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Is a Pool Cover Pump?

A pool cover pump removes standing water from a pool cover, helping prevent sagging, overflow, and heavy buildup after rain, snowmelt, or debris.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Seasonal Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Install a Pool Cover on an Above-Ground Pool

To install a pool cover on an above-ground pool, clean the area, center the cover, fasten it per the manual, and verify an even, secure fit.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Seasonal Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Winterize a Pool Sand Filter

Winterize a pool sand filter by shutting the system down, draining the tank and plumbing, and protecting it from freeze damage before cold weather arrives.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.