Water has risen to the skimmer

I have a 22k gal IG. i drained the pool to below the level of the returns, blew out the lines and capped. I covered the pool, but with rain & snow the level has risen to the skimmers (I have gizmos in the skimmers) I used a cover pump last year, can't find it now. Question: If I don't drain the pool back to below the skimmers, can freezing water do damage?

Also a 22K ig (vinyl). This is the third year I've seen the same thing and haven't worried about it. In fact I hope for it since we're out in the boonies, on a well. I don't relish the idea of adding back 3 or 4 thousand gallons in the spring.

I say, don't sweat it.

Chuck

In addition to the gizmo you should pack the skimmer with something to allow ice to expand without doing damage. I use closed cell foam, eccofoam, the same stuff pool noodles are made of. Doesn't have to be packed solid. I stuff pieces between the walls and the gizmo and above the gizmo. I drain my IG only to the mid skimmer point and usually drain as needed during the winter. I have a high water table and don;t want to risk floating the liner.
Al

Thanks for the feedback. I'm going to cut up one of those noodles tonight and put it in the skimmers.