Winterizing your pool is an essential step in maintaining its longevity and preventing damage during the colder months. One crucial aspect of winterizing your pool is blowing out the pool return lines. This process helps remove excess water from the pipes to prevent freezing and potential damage. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to effectively blow out your pool return lines for winterization.
Why Blow Out Pool Return Lines?
Blowing out the pool return lines is important because any water left in the pipes can freeze during winter, causing the pipes to expand and potentially crack or burst. By removing the water from the lines, you can prevent costly damage and ensure that your pool is ready for the next swimming season.
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What You Will Need:
Before you begin the process of blowing out your pool return lines, make sure you have the following equipment ready:
- Air compressor
- Pool winterizing plug or Gizzmo
- Adjustable wrench
- Teflon tape
- Goggles
Steps to Blow Out Pool Return Lines:
Follow these step-by-step instructions to effectively blow out your pool return lines:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Turn off the pool pump and filter system. |
| 2 | Locate the return lines and remove the eyeball fittings. |
| 3 | Insert the winterizing plug or Gizzmo into the return lines. |
| 4 | Use an adjustable wrench to secure the plug in place. |
| 5 | Wrap the threads of the plug with Teflon tape to ensure a tight seal. |
| 6 | Put on goggles to protect your eyes from any debris. |
| 7 | Connect the air compressor to the winterizing plug. |
| 8 | Turn on the air compressor and gradually increase the pressure to blow out the lines. |
| 9 | Continue blowing out the lines until no water comes out. |
| 10 | Remove the winterizing plug and store it in a safe place for next year. |
Tips for Blowing Out Pool Return Lines:
Here are some additional tips to help you successfully blow out your pool return lines:
- Start with low pressure and gradually increase to avoid damaging the pipes.
- Ensure that all water is removed from the lines to prevent freezing.
- Store the winterizing plug in a safe and easily accessible place for next year.
- Consider hiring a professional if you are unsure about the process.
By the way, we already told you how you can blow out swimming pool lines in winter, check this article for getting tips what to do in winter.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the purpose of blowing out pool return lines?
A: Blowing out pool return lines is essential for winterizing your pool. It removes water from the pipes to prevent them from freezing and cracking during cold weather.
Q: What equipment do I need to blow out pool return lines?
A: You’ll need an air compressor, a suitable fitting or adapter to connect the compressor to the pool plumbing, and potentially some plugs or winterizing plugs for the pool returns.
Q: How do I prepare my pool for blowing out the return lines?
A: Start by lowering the water level in the pool below the skimmer and return jets. Make sure the pump and filter are turned off and the multiport valve is set to the “Winterize” position, if applicable.
Q: What steps are involved in blowing out the pool return lines?
A:Â
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- Attach the air compressor to the appropriate fitting on the pool plumbing.
- Turn on the compressor and let it run until you see air bubbles coming out of the return jets in the pool.
- Once the air is flowing through the lines, plug the return jets with winterizing plugs to keep air in and water out.
Q: Can I use a shop vac to blow out pool return lines instead of an air compressor?
A: Yes, a shop vac with a blower function can sometimes be used, but it may not be as powerful or effective as an air compressor for this task.
Q: How much pressure should I use when blowing out the pool return lines?
A: Generally, a pressure of around 20-30 PSI is sufficient to blow out the lines. Be careful not to exceed this pressure to avoid damaging the plumbing.
Q: How can I tell if the lines are fully cleared of water?
A: You’ll know the lines are clear when you see a consistent stream of air bubbles coming from the return jets. This indicates that air, rather than water, is flowing through the pipes.
Q: Is it necessary to blow out all the lines, including the skimmer and main drain?
A: Yes, it’s crucial to blow out all lines, including the skimmer and main drain, to ensure no water is left that could freeze and cause damage.
Q: What do I do after blowing out the pool return lines?
A: After blowing out the lines and plugging the returns, ensure all other pool equipment, like the pump and filter, is properly winterized. Add pool antifreeze to any lines that might still have residual water.
Final Words
Blowing out your pool return lines is a vital step in winterizing your pool and protecting it from potential damage. By following the steps outlined in this guide and taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure that your pool is ready for the winter months. Remember to store your equipment properly and consult a professional if needed. With proper maintenance, your pool will be in top condition when the swimming season returns.
