Winter is here, and for pool owners, that means it’s time to start thinking about closing up your inground pool for the season. One crucial step in this process is blowing out your pool lines. But what does that even mean, and why is it so important?
Blowing out your inground pool lines involves removing all the water from the pipes, ensuring that there’s no leftover water that could freeze and potentially damage your equipment. This process can be a bit daunting if you’ve never done it before, but with the right guidance, anyone can do it.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about blowing out inground pool lines in 202We’ll cover the preparation you’ll need to do, step-by-step instructions for the process, common mistakes to avoid, and more. By the end of this article, you’ll have all the knowledge and confidence you need to get the job done right and keep your pool safe throughout the winter.
Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Preparation is Key: Getting Ready to Blow Out Your Inground Pool Lines
Before you start the process of blowing out your inground pool lines, it’s essential to prepare properly to ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible. Here are a few essential steps to follow:
Gather Your Tools and Materials
- Air compressor: You’ll need an air compressor to blow out your pool lines. Make sure it’s powerful enough to get the job done.
- Plugs or winterizing equipment: You’ll need to plug the skimmer and return lines to keep water out during the winter.
- Goggles and gloves: Protect your eyes and hands from any debris that may come out of the lines during the process.
Lower the Water Level
Before you begin blowing out your pool lines, you’ll need to lower the water level below the skimmer. This ensures that the water in the lines is only coming from the lower half of the pool.
Clean and Backwash Your Filter
It’s important to have a clean and functioning filter before you begin the process of blowing out your pool lines. Backwash your filter, and if necessary, clean or replace the filter media.
By taking the time to properly prepare before blowing out your inground pool lines, you’ll ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible and that your pool is well-protected throughout the winter.
The Anatomy of an Inground Pool Line: Understanding Your Equipment
Before blowing out your inground pool lines, it’s important to understand the components of your pool system. A typical inground pool setup includes a main drain, skimmer, and return lines. The main drain sits at the bottom of the pool and draws water in while the skimmer sits at the waterline and pulls in debris. Return lines push the filtered water back into the pool. Additionally, some pools have dedicated cleaner lines and spa lines that require their own attention during winterization.
Knowing the layout of your pool system is crucial to ensuring that all lines are properly blown out and winterized. Here are three key components to keep in mind:
Main Drain
The main drain is the lowest point in your pool and plays a crucial role in the circulation of water. This line must be completely drained and blown out to avoid freeze damage. Using an air compressor to clear the line of water is the best way to ensure it’s winterized properly.
Skimmer Lines
Skimmer lines are located near the water’s surface and collect debris before it can sink to the bottom of the pool. These lines can be blown out with an air compressor, but it’s important to also remove any plugs or baskets to ensure all water is removed from the system.
Return Lines
Return lines are responsible for pushing the filtered water back into the pool. These lines should be blown out in the opposite direction of the water flow to ensure all water is removed. It’s important to also remove any directional eyeballs or other accessories that could trap water in the system.
- Be sure to also consider any additional lines in your pool system, such as cleaner lines or spa lines.
- It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for winterizing your specific pool equipment.
By understanding the anatomy of your inground pool lines and properly preparing for winterization, you can avoid costly damage and ensure your pool is ready for summer fun when the warm weather returns.
Step by Step: How to Blow Out Your Inground Pool Lines in 5 Easy Steps
If you’re a pool owner, it’s important to properly maintain your inground pool to keep it in top shape. One crucial part of pool maintenance is winterizing your pool, which includes blowing out your pool lines to prevent freezing and damage during the colder months. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to blow out your inground pool lines in 5 easy steps.
Before starting, make sure to wear protective eyewear and gloves and have all necessary equipment ready, including a shop vac or air compressor and an air hose with a tapered fitting.
Step 1: Turn off the Pool Pump
- Shut off the pool pump and make sure the pool is completely drained to prevent water from entering the lines while blowing them out.
Step 2: Disconnect and Drain Pool Equipment
- Disconnect and drain all pool equipment, including the filter, heater, and any other accessories.
- Use the air hose with the tapered fitting to blow out any remaining water from the equipment.
Step 3: Blow Out Main Drain and Skimmer Lines
- Attach the air hose with the tapered fitting to the main drain line and blow out any water.
- Repeat the process for each skimmer line, ensuring that all water is removed.
Step 4: Blow Out Return Lines
- Attach the air hose with the tapered fitting to the return lines and blow out any remaining water.
- Make sure to blow out each return line until you see air bubbles coming out of the pool.
Step 5: Add Antifreeze
- After blowing out the pool lines, add antifreeze to each line to provide extra protection against freezing.
- Use a pool antifreeze that is safe for all types of plumbing.
By following these 5 easy steps, you can successfully blow out your inground pool lines and protect your pool from potential damage during the colder months. Remember to always prioritize safety and proper equipment when performing pool maintenance tasks.
Mistakes to Avoid: Common Errors When Blowing Out Your Inground Pool Lines
As the weather cools down, it’s time to start thinking about winterizing your pool. One of the essential steps is to blow out your pool lines to prevent freeze damage. However, even experienced pool owners can make mistakes when doing this task. Here are some common errors to avoid:
Not draining the lines completely: Failing to drain all the water from your pool lines can cause them to freeze and crack, leading to costly repairs. Make sure to use a powerful enough air compressor and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Blowing air too forcefully
If you blow air too forcefully into your pool lines, you can cause them to burst. This mistake can happen if you use a compressor that’s too powerful or if you don’t regulate the pressure correctly. Take your time, and if you’re unsure, consult with a professional pool service technician.
Ignoring the skimmer line
Some pool owners forget to blow out the skimmer line, which can lead to significant damage if it freezes. Ensure to remove the skimmer basket and blow out the skimmer line with the air compressor.
- Ensure to drain the water from the equipment, including the pump, filter, and heater, before blowing out the lines.
- Make sure to remove any plugs from the lines before blowing them out to avoid damaging the equipment.
Winterizing your pool is essential to protect your investment, but it’s crucial to avoid these common mistakes when blowing out your pool lines. Taking the time to do the job correctly can save you a lot of money and hassle in the long run.
Year-Round Maintenance: Why Regular Blowouts are Essential for Inground Pool Health
Regular pool maintenance is essential for the health of your inground pool. One of the most important tasks to keep your pool in tip-top shape is to have regular blowouts. Not only will regular blowouts keep your pool free from debris, but it will also help prevent costly repairs in the long run.
Here are three reasons why regular blowouts are important:
Prevents Freeze Damage
Blowing out your pool lines in the fall helps prevent freeze damage during the winter months. If there is any water left in the lines, it can freeze and cause the pipes to crack, which can be a costly repair. By blowing out the lines, you remove all water from the pipes, eliminating the risk of freeze damage.
Protects Your Equipment
Regular blowouts also protect your pool equipment, such as pumps, filters, and heaters. If debris and water are left in the lines, it can cause damage to the equipment, leading to costly repairs or replacements. By keeping your lines clear with regular blowouts, you can extend the life of your equipment and save money in the long run.
Improves Water Quality
Debris left in the pool lines can also affect water quality. When the lines are clogged, it can cause a decrease in water flow, leading to stagnant water that can become a breeding ground for bacteria and algae. By keeping your lines clear with regular blowouts, you can improve water flow and maintain crystal-clear water for your swimming enjoyment.
Professional Help: When to Call in the Experts for Blowing Out Inground Pool Lines
Blowing out your inground pool lines is an important step in pool maintenance, but sometimes it’s best to call in the experts. Here are some situations where professional help is recommended:
If you’re not confident in your ability to blow out the pool lines yourself, it’s best to call in a professional. They have the experience and knowledge to do the job right, and they can identify and address any issues that may arise during the process. Additionally, if you have a larger pool or complex plumbing system, it may be too difficult for you to do the job on your own.
When to Call in a Professional:
- If you have a larger pool or complex plumbing system
- If you’re not confident in your ability to do the job
- If you encounter any issues during the process
Another reason to call in a professional is if you notice any issues with your pool, such as low water pressure or water discoloration. These could be signs of a more serious problem, and a professional can identify and address the issue before it becomes a major problem. Additionally, a professional can inspect your pool for any other issues or needed repairs, such as leaks or cracks in the plumbing.
When to Have a Professional Inspect Your Pool:
- If you notice low water pressure or water discoloration
- If you suspect there may be issues with your plumbing system
- If you want a professional to inspect your pool for any other issues or needed repairs
Finally, it’s important to call in a professional if you encounter any problems during the process of blowing out your pool lines. For example, if you accidentally disconnect a pipe or valve, a professional can quickly fix the issue to prevent any damage or water loss.
When to Call in a Professional for Repairs:
- If you accidentally disconnect a pipe or valve during the process
- If you encounter any other problems or issues during the process
By knowing when to call in a professional for blowing out your inground pool lines, you can ensure that your pool stays in great shape year-round. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional if you need help!
Frequently Asked Questions
What equipment do I need to blow out my inground pool lines?
You’ll need an air compressor with a CFM of at least 100, a shop vac or a blower, and a winterizing kit. The winterizing kit includes plugs, gizzmos, and a skimmer cover.
What is the best time to blow out my inground pool lines?
You should blow out your pool lines after the temperature drops below freezing, but before it stays consistently below freezing. This is usually in mid to late fall.
How much pressure should I use when blowing out my inground pool lines?
You should use no more than 25 PSI when blowing out your pool lines to avoid damaging them.
How long does it take to blow out inground pool lines?
The time it takes to blow out your pool lines depends on the size of your pool, but it usually takes a few hours.
Can I blow out my inground pool lines myself?
While it is possible to blow out your pool lines yourself, it is recommended to hire a professional to ensure it is done correctly and to avoid costly repairs due to mistakes.
How often should I blow out my inground pool lines?
You should blow out your pool lines once a year to prevent freezing and to prolong the life of your pool equipment.