I have an IG pool. I live in northern Alabama where about the lowest the winter temps get are around low teens and that's usually only during the nights. Occassionally, we will have colder temps but rarely. I was told by a pool store owner that she hasn't blown out her pipes in 15 years and I haven't either in the last 2 years.

My question: is it okay to leave your pipes with water in them and drain the pump, filter, and other above ground equipment. The theory is that with all the valves open and no plugs as the water starts to freeze it will expand and the water will flow back into the pool where it won't actually freeze. This only works if your pump and filter are above the pool water level.

Any thoughts on this? My neighbor usually blows his pipes and plugs them (but doesn't use anti-freeze). I just want to make sure.

Thanks!