You can leave it attached . . . IF you drain it completely. On most pumps, you have to drain BOTH the volute (where the impeller is) AND the strainer pot (where the strainer basket is). Usually, there are two removable plugs.
You'll need to leave the plugs out, and store them in a safe place where you can find them next spring. When I've closed pools, I've always cleaned the pump strainer basket, and then put all the plugs, etc in the basket and replaced the lid.
By the way, the pressure gauge MUST be stored indoors; there's no practical way to get all the water out of the Bourdon tube.
Bookmarks