December 24, 2025

The Importance of Using Pool Antifreeze When Closing Your Pool

The Importance of Using Pool Antifreeze When Closing Your Pool

When temperatures begin to drop, one of the most crucial steps in closing a pool for winter is protecting it from freezing damage. Many pool owners focus on covers and chemicals but overlook one essential safeguard, pool antifreeze. Without it, even a well-covered pool can suffer cracked pipes, damaged pumps, and costly repairs come spring.

At Anomaly Pool Services, we regularly see the damage caused by skipping or misusing antifreeze during winterization. This guide explains what pool antifreeze is, why it matters, how to use it correctly, and whether professional help is the smarter choice.

What Is Pool Antifreeze and Why Is It Important?

Pool antifreeze is a specially formulated, non toxic antifreeze designed specifically for swimming pool plumbing. Unlike automotive antifreeze, it is safe for pool systems and used only in plumbing lines, not mixed into the pool water itself.

The purpose of antifreeze for swimming pools is simple:

 Prevent water trapped in pipes from freezing and expanding

Frozen water expands, and that expansion can crack pipes, damage fittings, and destroy equipment. Once this happens, repairs can be expensive and time-consuming.

Using antifreeze for pool closing adds an extra layer of protection after the plumbing lines are blown out, especially in areas with harsh or unpredictable winters.

Why Pool Antifreeze Matters When Closing a Pool for Winter

Even after draining and blowing out lines, small amounts of water can remain in low spots. That’s where pool antifreeze becomes essential.

Proper use helps with:

  • Swimming pool freeze protection
  • Preventing cracked return lines
  • Protecting skimmer lines
  • Reducing damage to underground plumbing
  • Supporting long-term pool pump freeze protection

At Anomaly Pool Services, we include antifreeze as part of a complete winterization strategy, not as a shortcut, but as added insurance.

Is Pool Antifreeze Safe to Swim In?

A very common question we hear is:

“Is pool antifreeze safe to swim in?”

Here’s the clear answer:

  • Yes, pool antifreeze is non toxic
  • No, it is not meant to be poured directly into the pool water

Pool antifreeze is added only to plumbing lines, not to the pool itself. Any trace amounts that eventually mix with water during spring opening are diluted and safe when handled properly.

Never use automotive antifreeze, this is toxic and dangerous.

Where to Add Pool Antifreeze

Understanding where to add pool antifreeze is just as important as using the correct product.

Antifreeze is typically added to:

  • Skimmer lines
  • Return lines
  • Cleaner lines
  • Water feature lines
  • Pool equipment plumbing (after draining)

It is not added directly into the pool basin. Proper placement ensures water left in the lines cannot freeze and expand.

This step is often missed during DIY winterization, which is why professional services make a big difference.

How Much Pool Antifreeze Do I Need?

Another common concern is:

“How much pool antifreeze do I need?”

The answer depends on:

  • Pool size
  • Length of plumbing runs
  • Number of lines
  • Pool type (above ground vs inground)
  • Local winter temperatures

On average:

  • 1-2 gallons per plumbing line is common
  • Larger or more complex pools may need more

Guessing can lead to under-protection or wasted product. Anomaly Pool Services calculates exact amounts to ensure full coverage without excess.

Antifreeze for Inground Pools vs Above Ground Pools

Antifreeze for Inground Pools

Inground pools usually have:

  • Longer underground plumbing
  • Multiple return lines
  • Deeper pipe runs

This makes antifreeze for inground pools especially important. These pipes are more vulnerable to freezing due to soil temperature shifts.

Antifreeze for Above Ground Pool

Many people ask:

“Do above ground pools freeze in the winter?”

Yes, they can, especially the plumbing and equipment.

Antifreeze for above ground pool systems is often used in:

  • Skimmer lines
  • Flexible hoses
  • Return fittings
  • Pump connections

While above ground pools are easier to drain, antifreeze still adds crucial protection.

Swimming Pool Pump Freeze Protection

Your pump is one of the most expensive components of your pool system. Swimming pool pump freeze protection involves more than just turning it off.

Key steps include:

  • Fully draining the pump
  • Removing drain plugs
  • Storing the pump indoors (if possible)
  • Adding antifreeze to connected plumbing
  • Using breathable covers if left outside

Pool pump freeze protection is essential to avoid cracked housings and seized motors.

How to Keep Pool from Freezing in Winter

If you’re wondering how to keep pool from freezing in winter, the answer is a combination of steps:

  • Balance water chemistry
  • Clean the pool thoroughly
  • Blow out all plumbing lines
  • Add pool antifreeze
  • Drain and protect equipment
  • Install a secure winter cover

Skipping even one step increases the risk of freeze damage.

How to Prepare Swimming Pool for Winter

Proper preparation is key to avoiding problems in spring. Knowing how to prepare swimming pool for winter includes:

Antifreeze plays a supporting role but is a vital part of complete swimming pool freeze protection.

DIY vs Professional Use of Pool Antifreeze

Some homeowners choose DIY winterization, but mistakes are common.

DIY Risks

  • Using the wrong antifreeze
  • Adding too little product
  • Missing hidden plumbing lines
  • Incorrect placemen
  • Skipping line blowout

Professional Advantage

Hiring Anomaly Pool Services ensures:

  • Correct antifreeze selection
  • Proper dosing
  • Complete line protection
  • Full winterization checklist
  • Reduced risk of costly repairs

If you’re searching for a “pool winterizing service near me”, professional help is often the safest and most cost-effective option.

Why Anomaly Pool Services Uses Pool Antifreeze the Right Way

At Anomaly Pool Services, we don’t rely on shortcuts. Our winterization process includes:

  • Professional line blowouts
  • Strategic antifreeze placement
  • Equipment freeze protection
  • Pool-type-specific methods
  • Local climate considerations

We understand that no two pools are alike, which is why our approach is customized for each customer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is pool antifreeze made of?

Pool antifreeze is a non toxic solution designed specifically for pool plumbing systems. It is safe when used correctly.

Can I pour pool antifreeze in pool water?

No. Pool antifreeze in pool water is not recommended. It should only be added to plumbing lines.

Is antifreeze necessary if I blow out the lines?

Yes. Blowing out lines removes most water, but antifreeze protects against remaining moisture in low spots.

Do above ground pools need antifreeze?

Yes. While easier to winterize, above ground pools still benefit from antifreeze in hoses and plumbing.

How long does pool antifreeze last?

It remains effective throughout the winter season until spring opening.

Does Anomaly Pool Services offer antifreeze as part of closing?

Yes. Our winterization services include professional antifreeze application as part of complete pool closing.

Final Thoughts

Using pool antifreeze when closing your pool is one of the smartest steps you can take to protect your investment. It prevents freeze damage, safeguards plumbing, and saves money on repairs.

Whether you’re closing an inground or above ground pool, antifreeze adds critical protection that no winter cover alone can provide.

For homeowners who want peace of mind, Anomaly Pool Services delivers expert winterization backed by experience, precision, and care.

If you’re looking for a trusted pool winterizing service near me, our team is ready to help protect your pool, season after season.

Copyright 2025. Anomaly Pool Services Company, LLC.