Air Pillow for Above Ground Pool: Winter Protection
Pool owners must winterize their above ground pools as cold weather approaches. An air pillow is crucial for protecting your pool during winter. It prevents damage, reduces strain on the cover, and distributes ice and snow pressure evenly.
An air pillow is a simple tool that saves you from costly spring repairs. It creates a dome effect when placed in the pool’s center before covering. This allows rain, snow, and debris to slide off easily.
The air pillow keeps your cover cleaner and prevents it from sinking into the water. This protects both the cover and the pool from damage.
Air pillows absorb pressure from ice expansion during freezing months. They provide a buffer between ice and pool walls, preventing cracks and structural damage. Combined with pool wall bags, air pillows create a complete winter protection system.
Key Takeaways
- Air pillows are crucial for protecting above ground pools during winter
- They prevent pool covers from sinking and allow debris to slide off easily
- Air pillows absorb pressure from ice expansion, preventing structural damage
- Proper positioning of the air pillow in the center of the pool is essential
- Using air pillows with pool wall bags creates a comprehensive winter protection system
What is an Air Pillow for Above Ground Pools?
Air pillows are vital for winterizing above ground pools. They protect pools from freezing damage during winter. Placing an air pillow in the pool’s center before covering ensures safety until swim season.
Purpose of an Air Pillow
Air pillows create a void between the pool cover and water surface. This space allows ice to expand during freezing temperatures. It prevents damage to pool walls and liner.
Water expands by 9% when frozen, putting pressure on the pool structure. Air pillows minimize this pressure and help avoid costly spring repairs.
How Air Pillows Protect Above Ground Pools
Air pillows protect above ground pools in several ways:
- They absorb the pressure caused by ice expansion, preventing damage to the pool walls and liner.
- They help distribute the weight of snow and ice evenly across the pool cover, reducing the risk of collapse.
- They create an upward pressure on the pool cover, preventing it from sagging and accumulating debris or water.
Inflate the air pillow to about 75% capacity for best protection. This allows slight compression under the pool cover’s weight without popping.
Following these steps reduces strain on your pool during winter. It also extends your pool’s lifespan significantly.
| Pool Size | Recommended Air Pillow Size |
|---|---|
| 12′ to 18′ round | 4′ x 4′ |
| 21′ to 28′ round | 4′ x 8′ |
| 12′ x 20′ oval | 4′ x 4′ |
| 12′ x 24′ oval | 4′ x 8′ |
A quality air pillow is a small investment for pool protection. It provides peace of mind during winter months. Proper use helps avoid repairs and extends your pool’s life for years.
Benefits of Using an Air Pillow for Winter Pool Protection
Air pillows are vital for protecting above ground pools during harsh winters. They offer many benefits for safeguarding your pool structure, cover, and overall integrity. Let’s explore how these innovative devices can help you maintain your pool.
Prevents Damage to Pool Structure
Air pillows shield pool walls from freeze-thaw cycle damage. They create a void that allows ice to expand inward, not outward. This helps maintain your pool’s structure and prevents costly spring repairs.
Reduces Strain on Pool Cover
Air pillows create a dome-like shape in the pool’s center. This allows rain, snow, and debris to slide off easily. It minimizes weight on your cover and prevents sagging and tearing.
With an air pillow, your pool cover can better withstand the elements. This extends its lifespan and saves you money over time.
Helps Distribute Pressure from Ice and Snow
Winter ice and snow can put significant pressure on pool walls. Air pillows absorb some force from expanding ice. They evenly distribute pressure throughout the pool, reducing damage risk to liner and walls.
Using an air pillow is like giving your above ground pool a warm, protective hug during the cold winter months.
Choosing the right air pillow size is crucial. Here’s a guide to help you select the best fit:
| Pool Size | Recommended Air Pillow Size |
|---|---|
| 12′ Round | 4′ x 4′ |
| 18′ Round | 4′ x 8′ |
| 24′ Round | 4′ x 8′ |
| 27′ Round | 4′ x 15′ |
| 15′ x 30′ Oval | 4′ x 8′ |
| 16′ x 24′ Oval | 4′ x 8′ |
| 16′ x 32′ Oval | 4′ x 8′ |
| 18′ x 33′ Oval | 4′ x 15′ |
Proper air pillow installation under your winter cover is key. It ensures your pool stays protected during cold months. This simple tool helps minimize damage, reduce costs, and extend your pool’s life.
Choosing the Right Size Air Pillow for Your Above Ground Pool
Selecting the right air pillow size is vital for winter pool protection. It distributes ice and snow pressure evenly, preventing damage to your pool’s structure. Let’s explore air pillow sizes for different pool dimensions.
Air Pillow Sizes for Different Pool Dimensions
Above ground pools come in various shapes and sizes. Matching your air pillow size to your pool’s dimensions is crucial. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:
- For round pools up to 24′ in diameter, a 4′ x 4′ air pillow is recommended.
- For oval pools measuring 15′ x 30′ or larger, opt for a 4′ x 15′ air pillow.
- If you have a pool that falls between these sizes, consider using multiple smaller air pillows to ensure adequate coverage and support.
Choose an air pillow large enough to cover much of your pool’s surface area. It shouldn’t touch the sides. This allows the pillow to absorb pressure from ice and snow effectively.
Recommended Air Pillow for 28′ Round and Small Oval Pools
For 28′ round pools or small oval pools, use a 4′ x 8′ air pillow. This size provides ample coverage and support for these specific pool dimensions.
| Pool Shape | Pool Size | Recommended Air Pillow Size |
|---|---|---|
| Round | Up to 24′ | 4′ x 4′ |
| Round | 28′ | 4′ x 8′ |
| Oval | 15′ x 30′ or larger | 4′ x 15′ |
| Oval | Small | 4′ x 8′ |
The right air pillow size ensures your pool stays protected during harsh winters. Proper winterizing, including using an appropriate air pillow, extends your pool’s life. It also saves money on potential spring repairs.
Conclusion
Air pillows are crucial for above ground pool winter protection. They work with pool wall bags to shield against ice, snow, and debris. These affordable devices prevent freezing water expansion, protecting pool walls and liner.
Choose the right air pillow size for your pool’s dimensions. There are options for both round and oval pools. A quality air pillow can extend your pool’s lifespan significantly.
Don’t underestimate the air pillow’s role in winter pool protection. It’s a simple yet effective tool for preserving your pool. Proper installation ensures optimal results and a smoother pool opening in spring.
