As the summer season comes to an end, it’s time to think about closing your pool. One of the most important steps in this process is blowing out your pool lines. This will prevent any water from freezing inside your pipes and causing damage during the winter months. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to blow out pool lines so that you can ensure your pool is properly closed and protected.
What is Blowing Out Pool Lines?
Blowing out pool lines is the process of removing all water from the plumbing lines in your pool. This is done by using an air compressor to blow air through the lines, pushing out any remaining water. By doing this, you can prevent any water from freezing inside the pipes and causing damage.
Equipment Needed
Before you begin blowing out your pool lines, you’ll need to gather some equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:- Air compressor- Air hose- Pressure gauge- Winterizing plug or Gizmo- Goggles and gloves
Step-by-Step Guide to Blowing Out Pool Lines
Now that you have your equipment, it’s time to start blowing out your pool lines. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Turn off the pump and filter
The first step is to turn off your pool pump and filter. This will prevent any additional water from entering the plumbing lines.
Step 2: Close valves
Next, close all of the valves leading to and from the pool. This includes the skimmer valve, main drain valve, and return valve.
Step 3: Drain water from filter tank
Open the air relief valve on your filter tank and let the water drain out. This will allow air to enter the filter and prevent any damage from occurring during the winter.
Step 4: Attach air hose to the skimmer line
Attach the air hose to the skimmer line using a winterizing plug or Gizmo. These devices will prevent any air from escaping and ensure that all of the water is blown out.
Step 5: Turn on the air compressor
Turn on the air compressor and slowly increase the pressure until it reaches 20-25 PSI. This is the optimal pressure for blowing out pool lines.
Step 6: Blow out lines
Starting with the skimmer line, blow out each line one at a time. This includes the main drain line and return lines. You’ll know that the lines are fully blown out when no more water comes out.
Step 7: Add antifreeze
Once all of the lines are blown out, add antifreeze to the lines using a winterizing kit. This will help protect your pipes from freezing during the winter.
Step 8: Cover pool
Finally, cover your pool with a winter cover to keep debris out and protect it from the elements.
Important Notes
- It’s important to wear goggles and gloves when blowing out pool lines to protect your eyes and skin from any debris.
- Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using an air compressor to prevent any damage or injury.
- If you’re unsure about how to blow out your pool lines, it’s always best to consult a professional to ensure that it’s done correctly.
People Also Ask
How often should you blow out pool lines?
– Pool lines should be blown out at least once a year before closing your pool for the winter.
Can you blow out pool lines without an air compressor?
– No, an air compressor is necessary for blowing out pool lines as it provides the necessary pressure to remove all of the water from the pipes.
What happens if you don’t blow out pool lines?
– If you don’t blow out pool lines, any remaining water can freeze inside the pipes and cause them to crack or burst, resulting in expensive repairs. By following these steps, you can ensure that your pool is properly closed and protected during the winter months. Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consult a professional if you’re unsure about how to blow out your pool lines.