That gadget I described is used to ship a new filter without an sand in it to keep the internal plumbing in place. I used it for years till it finally broke and now just let the sand hold it in place. I'm a strong believer in taking off the multivalve--the device on top with the handle. I take the O-ring surrounding the m-valve and lube it with teflon lube special for O-rings. I then put it in a ziplock bag for the winter, and the m-valve is drained and stored in the basement.

I've never had the aquador break, but the problem is ice in the skimmer. IF enough ice forms to block the bottom of the skimmer, if more ice forms in the skimmer it can bust it. Some take a kid's noodle, cut it up into pieces and stuff the skimmer with it. That way, any ice formed has to push against the foam, and not as much water can get into the skimmer.