in the swim winterizing kit instructions

In The Swim Winterizing Kit Instructions: A Comprehensive Guide

In The Swim winterizing kits offer a convenient and economical solution for pool owners, preventing damage and simplifying the closing process for the winter season.

Understanding the Importance of Winterizing

Winterizing your pool is crucial to protect it from the damaging effects of freezing temperatures. Water expands when frozen, potentially cracking pipes, filters, and even the pool shell itself. In The Swim kits address this by preparing your pool for colder months.

Proper winterizing prevents costly repairs in the spring. Algae growth can also occur during winter, staining the pool surface. The kit’s chemicals combat this. Ignoring winterizing leads to a significant cleanup effort and expense when reopening the pool. A proactive approach ensures a smooth and enjoyable swimming season next year, safeguarding your investment and minimizing future headaches. Don’t skip this vital step!

Why Choose In The Swim Winterizing Kits?

In The Swim winterizing kits stand out due to their comprehensive approach and focus on pool protection. Unlike chlorine-based kits, these won’t damage surfaces or reduce chemical effectiveness. They include a slow-release floater with a powerful non-chlorine oxidizer, removing carbon dioxide that fuels algae growth.

The convenience and economy of these kits simplify the process for pool owners. Each kit contains Winterizing Inhibitor, Stain-Away, Chlor-Free Shock, and the unique floater. This all-in-one solution eliminates guesswork and ensures complete protection. Choosing In The Swim means a worry-free winter and a sparkling clean pool come springtime!

Kit Contents: A Detailed Breakdown

In The Swim Winterizing Kits are meticulously assembled to provide complete pool protection. The core components include a Non-Chlorine Oxidizer Floater, designed for slow-release sanitization throughout the winter months. Winterizing Inhibitor protects against scale formation and corrosion. Winterizing Stain-Away prevents unsightly stains caused by minerals and organic matter.

Furthermore, each kit features Chlor-Free Shock, effectively eliminating contaminants without the harshness of chlorine. The floater itself requires preparation – punching indents to regulate water flow based on pool size. These components work synergistically, ensuring your pool remains safeguarded against the elements until reopening.

Non-Chlorine Oxidizer Floater

The Non-Chlorine Oxidizer Floater is a crucial element within the In The Swim Winterizing Kit, providing sustained sanitation throughout the off-season. Unlike traditional chlorine-based systems, this floater utilizes a powerful, non-chlorine formula that won’t damage pool surfaces or diminish the effectiveness of other winterizing chemicals.

Its slow-release design continuously removes carbon dioxide – a key component in algae growth – preventing algae blooms during winter. Proper preparation is essential; carefully punch the designated indents on both sides of the cylinder, adjusting the number based on your pool’s volume to control water exchange and oxidation rates.

Winterizing Inhibitor

The Winterizing Inhibitor, a key component of the In The Swim Kit, is designed to protect your pool’s surfaces from staining and scaling during the winter months. This specialized formula creates a protective barrier, preventing mineral buildup and inhibiting the formation of unsightly stains caused by metals and other contaminants.

Adding the Inhibitor ensures your pool remains pristine and easier to open in the spring, reducing the need for extensive cleaning. It works synergistically with other chemicals in the kit, maximizing their effectiveness and safeguarding your investment. Follow dosage instructions carefully for optimal results and a worry-free winter.

Winterizing Stain-Away

Winterizing Stain-Away, included in the In The Swim Kit, is a powerful preventative treatment specifically formulated to combat stubborn stains before they can develop during the off-season. Unlike standard algaecides, this product focuses on preventing discoloration caused by minerals like iron and copper, which can leach into the water and cause unsightly marks on your pool’s surfaces.

By proactively addressing potential staining issues, Winterizing Stain-Away helps maintain your pool’s aesthetic appeal and simplifies spring opening. It’s a crucial step in protecting your investment and ensuring a beautiful, clean pool when swimming season returns. Always follow the label directions for proper application and dosage.

Chlor-Free Shock

Chlor-Free Shock, a key component of the In The Swim Winterizing Kit, is a non-chlorine oxidizer designed to eliminate organic contaminants that accumulate in your pool water. Unlike traditional chlorine shock, this formula won’t fade liners, bleach surfaces, or create harsh odors. It effectively destroys oils, lotions, and other debris that can fuel algae growth over the winter months.

This shock treatment prepares the water for the winterizing chemicals, enhancing their effectiveness and ensuring a cleaner, clearer pool come springtime. It’s vital for preventing a messy and challenging pool opening. Follow the package instructions carefully for the correct dosage based on your pool’s volume.

Step-by-Step Winterizing Instructions

Winterizing your pool involves cleaning, balancing water chemistry, adding specialized chemicals from the In The Swim Kit, and protecting equipment from freezing temperatures.

Step 1: Cleaning Your Pool

Before adding any winterizing chemicals, a thorough cleaning is essential for optimal results. Begin by brushing the pool surfaces – walls, floor, and steps – to loosen any algae or debris. Pay close attention to areas prone to buildup, like corners and around fittings.

Next, vacuum the pool to remove all dislodged particles. If you have a manual vacuum, ensure it’s working efficiently. For automatic cleaners, run a complete cycle. Removing debris prevents staining and ensures the winterizing chemicals can effectively protect your pool water throughout the off-season. A clean pool is the foundation for successful winterization!

Brushing the Pool Surfaces

Effective brushing is the first critical step in preparing your pool for winter. Utilize a pool brush – nylon for vinyl liners, stainless steel for concrete – to scrub all pool surfaces meticulously. Focus on the walls, floor, steps, and any areas where algae or dirt accumulate.

Pay particular attention to corners, around fittings, and under ladders, as these spots often harbor stubborn buildup. Brushing loosens debris, making it easier to remove during vacuuming and preventing potential staining during the winter months. Thorough brushing ensures the winterizing chemicals work efficiently, protecting your pool water.

Vacuuming the Pool

Following a thorough brushing, vacuum your pool to remove all loosened debris. You can use a manual vacuum, connected to your skimmer, or an automatic pool cleaner. If using a manual vacuum, set it to the “waste” setting to bypass the filter, preventing clogging with winterized debris.

Ensure you vacuum slowly and methodically, overlapping each pass to capture everything. Pay close attention to low spots where debris tends to settle. A clean pool bottom is essential for effective winterizing, as settled debris can contribute to staining and algae growth. Remove all visible dirt and leaves before proceeding to the next step.

Step 2: Balancing Pool Water Chemistry

Before adding winterizing chemicals, it’s crucial to balance your pool water. Use a reliable test kit to measure pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness. Ideal ranges are typically pH between 7.2-7.6, alkalinity 80-120 ppm, and calcium hardness 200-400 ppm.

Adjust chemical levels accordingly, following the instructions on your chemical products. Low pH can corrode equipment, while high pH can cause scaling. Proper alkalinity stabilizes pH, and balanced calcium hardness protects surfaces. Correcting these levels now ensures the winterizing chemicals work effectively and prevents issues during the off-season.

Testing Water pH, Alkalinity, and Calcium Hardness

Accurate water testing is the foundation of successful winterizing. Utilize a quality test kit – liquid test kits are generally more precise than test strips. Collect a water sample from about 18 inches below the surface, away from return jets.

Carefully follow the kit’s instructions to determine your pool’s current pH, total alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels. Record these readings. Ideal pH should fall between 7.2 and 7.6. Total alkalinity should be between 80-120 ppm, and calcium hardness between 200-400 ppm. These parameters significantly impact chemical effectiveness and pool surface protection.

Adjusting Chemical Levels

Once you’ve tested your water, adjust the levels as needed. If pH is low, add soda ash to raise it. If it’s high, add muriatic acid or dry acid to lower it – always add acid to water, never water to acid. Adjust alkalinity before pH, as it acts as a buffer.

To raise alkalinity, use baking soda. To lower it, use muriatic acid. For calcium hardness, add calcium chloride to increase it. Allow sufficient time (at least six hours) for chemicals to circulate and dissolve before retesting. Accurate balancing ensures the winterizing chemicals work effectively and prevents scaling or corrosion during the off-season.

Step 3: Adding Winterizing Chemicals (Using the Kit)

Begin by adding the Winterizing Inhibitor, following the dosage instructions on the bottle based on your pool’s volume. This protects metal components from corrosion during the winter months. Next, pour in the Winterizing Stain-Away, dispersing it evenly around the pool. This prevents staining caused by minerals in the water.

Finally, apply the Chlor-Free Shock, broadcasting it across the pool surface. This oxidizes any remaining contaminants without introducing chlorine, which can damage surfaces. Remember, skipping this step is possible if you’re utilizing a complete Winterizing Kit from In The Swim, as it contains all necessary components.

Adding Winterizing Inhibitor

The Winterizing Inhibitor is a crucial component, safeguarding your pool’s metal parts – heaters, pumps, and ladders – from corrosion throughout the winter. Carefully calculate the required dosage based on your pool’s gallonage; the product label provides clear instructions. Pour the inhibitor slowly and evenly around the perimeter of the pool, ideally while the pump is running to ensure thorough circulation.

Allow sufficient time for the inhibitor to distribute completely. This preventative measure significantly extends the lifespan of your pool equipment, saving you costly repairs or replacements in the spring. Proper application is key to a successful winterization process.

Adding Winterizing Stain-Away

Winterizing Stain-Away is designed to prevent unsightly staining caused by minerals in the water during the off-season. Like the Inhibitor, determine the correct amount needed based on your pool’s volume, referencing the product label for precise measurements. Pour the Stain-Away directly into the pool, distributing it as evenly as possible around the edges.

Running the pump during application will aid in circulation and ensure the product reaches all areas of the pool. This proactive step protects your pool’s surface from discoloration and makes spring opening much easier, preserving its aesthetic appeal. Consistent use helps maintain a pristine pool environment.

Applying Chlor-Free Shock

Chlor-Free Shock, a key component of the In The Swim winterizing kit, is crucial for eliminating organic contaminants before closing your pool. Unlike chlorine shock, this non-chlorine formula won’t damage pool surfaces or fade liners. Calculate the appropriate dosage based on your pool’s volume, carefully following the instructions on the product label.

Broadcast the shock evenly across the pool’s surface, ideally in the evening to maximize effectiveness. Run the pump for at least eight hours after application to ensure thorough circulation and oxidation. This step prepares the water for winter, preventing algae growth and simplifying spring startup.

Step 4: Utilizing the Time-Release Winterizing Enhancer Floater

The In The Swim time-release floater contains a powerful non-chlorine oxidizer, slowly releasing sanitizing agents throughout the winter months. This helps maintain water clarity and prevents algae growth by removing carbon dioxide, a key component for algae survival. To prepare the floater, use a screwdriver or drill to carefully punch through the indents on both sides of the cylinder.

The number of indents to punch corresponds to your pool’s size – consult the kit instructions for specific guidance. Once prepared, simply place the floater in the pool and allow it to slowly dissolve, providing continuous winter protection.

Preparing the Floater for Use

In The Swim’s time-release floater requires preparation before use to ensure proper functionality. This involves creating openings for water to enter and exit, facilitating the slow release of the non-chlorine oxidizer. Using a thick screwdriver or a drill bit, carefully punch through the pre-marked indents located on both sides of the cylindrical floater.

It’s crucial to avoid cracking or breaking the floater during this process. The number of indents punched dictates the release rate, tailored to your pool’s volume. Refer to the kit’s instructions to determine the correct number of indents based on your specific pool size for optimal winter protection.

Determining the Correct Number of Indents to Punch

Selecting the appropriate number of indents to punch in the time-release floater is vital for effective winterization. The In The Swim floater’s release rate is directly tied to the number of openings created, and this must align with your pool’s volume. Consult the kit’s packaging or included instructions for a chart detailing indent recommendations.

Generally, smaller pools require fewer indents, while larger pools necessitate more to ensure adequate oxidizer distribution throughout the winter months. Incorrectly punching the indents – too few or too many – can compromise the floater’s effectiveness, potentially leading to algae growth or insufficient water protection.

Step 5: Lowering the Water Level

Lowering the pool water level is a crucial step in preventing damage from freezing expansion during winter. The ideal level depends on your pool type and climate; generally, water should be lowered below the skimmer opening, but above the return jets. This protects the plumbing lines from freezing and cracking.

Use a pool pump or submersible pump to efficiently remove the water. Ensure proper drainage away from the pool’s foundation to avoid erosion. Carefully monitor the water level during the draining process, and avoid completely draining the pool, as this can cause structural issues.

Step 6: Protecting Plumbing and Equipment

Protecting your pool’s plumbing and equipment is vital to prevent costly freeze damage. Add In The Swim Non-Toxic Anti-Freeze to all plumbing lines, including the skimmer, return jets, and pump, following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. This prevents water from freezing and expanding, which can cause cracks and breaks.

Drain all equipment, such as the pump, filter, heater, and chlorinator, completely. Remove drain plugs and store them safely. Consider using winter plugs to seal off openings and further protect against freezing. Disconnect and store any automatic pool cleaners to prevent damage from the cold.

Adding Non-Toxic Anti-Freeze

In The Swim Non-Toxic Anti-Freeze is crucial for safeguarding your pool’s plumbing from freezing temperatures. Carefully add the anti-freeze to all plumbing lines – skimmer, return jets, and the pump – as directed on the product label. This prevents water from expanding when frozen, avoiding cracks and costly repairs.

Pour the anti-freeze into the lines using a funnel, ensuring it reaches all areas. Do not dilute the anti-freeze, as its effectiveness relies on its concentration. Remember, this is a preventative measure; proper draining combined with anti-freeze provides the best protection. Always follow safety guidelines when handling chemicals.

Step 7: Covering Your Pool

Covering your pool is the final, vital step in winterization, protecting it from debris and preventing unwanted chemical loss. Choosing the right pool cover depends on your needs – safety covers offer superior security, while winter covers provide basic protection. Ensure the cover completely encloses the pool, extending beyond the edges.

Installing the pool cover correctly is essential. Secure it tightly using water bags or cover clips, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Regularly check the cover throughout winter, removing any accumulated water or debris. A properly secured cover safeguards your pool and simplifies spring opening.

Choosing the Right Pool Cover

Selecting the appropriate pool cover is crucial for effective winterization. Safety covers, typically mesh, offer robust protection, preventing accidental entry and providing excellent debris control. They require a more significant initial investment but prioritize safety and durability.

Winter covers, often made of polyethylene, are a more economical option, shielding the pool from sunlight and debris. However, they don’t offer the same level of safety as mesh covers and require diligent water removal to prevent damage. Consider your budget, safety concerns, and local climate when making your decision. Ensure the cover is specifically sized for your pool.

Installing the Pool Cover

Proper installation is vital for a secure winter pool cover. Begin by ensuring the pool water level is appropriately lowered, as per the kit instructions. For safety covers, carefully position the cover over the pool, ensuring all anchor points align with existing hardware. Secure straps tightly, following the manufacturer’s guidelines for tension.

Winter covers require a similar approach, centering the cover and securing the edges with water bags or cover clips. Ensure a snug fit to prevent wind uplift and debris accumulation. Regularly inspect the cover throughout the winter, removing any standing water or snow to prevent potential damage and maintain its effectiveness;

Additional Considerations

Mesh safety covers may require supplemental algaecide in early March, while regular maintenance is crucial post-winterization for a sparkling pool.

Winterizing for Safety Covers (Mesh)

Mesh safety covers, while excellent for security, present a unique winterizing consideration due to their permeability. Unlike solid covers, mesh allows water to pass through, meaning the pool water isn’t entirely isolated from the elements.

Therefore, it’s vitally important to add an additional bottle of In The Swim Winterizing Algaecide to the pool water in early March. This proactive step combats potential algae growth that can occur even under a cover, especially with the introduction of sunlight and warmer temperatures.

Regularly check the cover throughout the winter to ensure it remains securely fastened and free of debris accumulation. Maintaining proper water chemistry before covering is also essential for a successful winter close, even with a mesh cover.

Post-Winterization Pool Opening Procedures

Following winterization with an In The Swim kit, a thorough pool opening is crucial for a safe and enjoyable swimming season. Begin by removing the cover carefully, cleaning off any debris. Next, assess and address the water level, gradually filling the pool as needed.

Thoroughly test the water chemistry – pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and cyanuric acid – and adjust accordingly. Shock the pool with a non-chlorine shock to eliminate any lingering contaminants.

Run the pump and filter continuously for at least 24-48 hours to circulate and clarify the water. Finally, initiate a regular pool care maintenance program to ensure consistently clean and balanced water throughout the swimming season.

Where to Purchase Replacement Kits

In The Swim winterizing kits are readily available for purchase through several convenient channels, ensuring you’re prepared for each closing season. The primary source is directly through the In The Swim website, offering a wide selection and direct shipping to your door.

Additionally, these kits are stocked at many local pool supply stores across the country, providing an opportunity for in-person consultation and immediate purchase. Major retailers like Walmart and Amazon also carry In The Swim products, offering competitive pricing and accessibility.

Always check for seasonal promotions and discounts to maximize your savings when restocking your winterizing supplies!