Instead of using winterizing pool chemicals...................?

Question

Instead of using winterizing chemicals (the kit), can one use a triple dose of shock and double algaecide for closing and then put the winter cover on?
I have always used the kit, but found that it is basically the same thing as far as shock and algaecide, but way more expensive to buy the kit.
What do you think? Would it work?

For an above ground pool, dark winter cover with a pillow.
Sorry.

Answer 1

It can work depending on a few things:

First of all, what type of cover is it? Is it a safety cover that lets the light and water through, or a solid one that you have to hold on with the cable and winch (above-ground) or water bags (inground)? (You didn't mention which type of pool you have.)

Assuming it is a properly-installed solid cover and a non-chlorine shock, it should work. By properly installed, I mean the cover should go over the pool's edge, rest on the water, go over air pillows (if used), right back down to the water again and over the edge on the opposite side. The cover is designed only to be a barrier between the water in the pool and the outside elements; it is not intended to support the weight of a lot of water on top of it. Leave enough slack; the cover shouldn't be taut anywhere... (A lot of people make this mistake, and the cover gets pulled in or torn, and there goes the pool water quality.) Also, dont use a heavy chlorine shock right before closing; this will also destroy the cover. A normal chlorine level of 1-3 ppm should be fine in most cases.

Don't mean to be rambling on here, but the cover is every bit as important as any closing chemicals you might put in (sometimes more so...)

If you are using a mesh safety cover, the kit really won't do you too much good. My best advice in this case is to open the pool early (before the water starts to warm up).