How much closing a pool do I need to do?

[tokmom]

I read about draining water, plugging returns etc..and I was concerned I would not do it correctly.

We called the local pool store to get an estimate on a prof pool closing, so we could learn. I was surprised to hear they said we didn't have to do 'all that' because it doesn't get that cold. We live in WA. I can get down to mid 20's on a bad winter day. Typical is mid-low 30's at night and higher 30's for the day.

I'm worried about draining too much water and huring my precious pool. I thought about getting it below the skimmer and then putting on a cover. I have no idea what to plug the return with!

Would I ruin the sand filter if I did a complete drain? Can you tell I'm a bit paranoid about taking all the hoses off, etc..and not hooking it back up correctly. (yeah, I'm taking pictures!)

Cover: We have a mesh cover. Is that ok?

[tokmom]

anyone with thoughts?

[Watermom]

Have you read the stickied thread at the top of this forum section about closing an AG pool?

[tokmom]

Watermom, I did and that is what I intended to do! I wanted to get a pool guy out to show us the first time. When we called the local store, they thought we were nuts that we wanted to do 'all of that'. The guy went on to say that he doesn't do anything but close with chemicals and put on a cover. No skimmer protection, unhooking the hoses, etc..
So, yes, I'm confused to how much I really need to do.

[Watermom]

If you live where it freezes, you either need to make sure your pipes/hoses are totally drained or disconnect them or you risk damage. Also, you do need to lower the water level below your skimmer and return jet. I don't put any gizmos in my skimmer since the water level is below it so it is not needed.

[mroll]

I don't mean to take over this thread but I too have a questions about closing AG pool. The pool store told me to NOT lower below skimmer since it would affect the pool cover...Is that true??
ALSO and most important WHAT do I have to put in a 15' round pool?? I plan on buying polyquat 60, a winter pillow,skimmer plate, a winter cover, a submersible pool cover pump and NO chemicals from the store. How much bleach do I use? Best Guess Chart to Super Shock. My CYA is about 45.. Plan on closing in about 3 weeks...waaaaa....