Should I Drain My Above Ground Pool For Winter?

When It Makes Sense

• Good fit: You live in a region where winter temperatures regularly drop below 20°F (‑6°C) and ice formation is common. In such climates the weight of expanding ice can stretch or tear the pool liner, so fully draining removes that risk.
• Good fit: The pool is older, with a liner that shows signs of wear, thinning, or seam separation. Removing water reduces constant stress on the compromised material, extending its usable life until a replacement is planned.

When You Should Avoid It

• Warning sign: Your above‑ground pool relies on water pressure to keep the frame upright (e.g., metal or PVC frames without additional anchoring). Draining could cause the structure to collapse or deform.
• Warning sign: You lack proper winterizing accessories such as a pool cover, air pillow, or ground tarp. Without a cover, debris, wind, and moisture can damage the empty basin, and the ground may shift under an uncovered empty pool.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Eliminates the risk of ice‑induced liner tears, which are costly to repair.
• Reduces long‑term wear on the pool frame and hardware by relieving constant water weight.

Cons

• Loss of water pressure can destabilize the pool’s structure, potentially requiring additional bracing or causing collapse.
• Draining and refilling the pool each year uses a significant amount of water and may violate local water‑use restrictions.

Decision Checklist

• Do winter temperatures in my area regularly reach freezing levels that could create ice pressure on the liner?
• Is my pool’s frame designed to stay upright without water pressure, or do I have a robust anchoring system?
• Do I have the necessary winterizing equipment (cover, air pillow, ground tarp) to protect an empty pool?

Alternatives to Consider

Instead of fully draining, you can partially lower the water level to the recommended winter depth (usually 4–6 inches below the skimmer) and add a winterizing cover that includes an air pillow or foam padding. This retains enough pressure to keep the frame stable while still reducing the volume of water that could freeze. Another option is to use a pool heater or a freeze‑protection system that circulates antifreeze‑grade solution to prevent ice formation.

Final Recommendation

If you live in a cold climate with frequent deep freezes and your pool is older or has a fragile liner, draining is a prudent choice—provided you invest in proper anchoring and a high‑quality cover. In milder zones or with a sturdy, pressure‑independent frame, it’s usually better to keep a minimal water level and winterize with a cover and padding. Always verify local code requirements and consider consulting a pool professional before committing to a full drain.