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Seasonal Pool Closing with an Ice Equalizer Pillow
Close the pool in a controlled order, beginning with cleaning and equipment preparation and ending with pillow placement, cover fastening, a 24-hour inspection, and scheduled winter checks.
The ice equalizer pillow is installed near the end of the closing processβnot at the beginning. The water, plumbing, equipment, fittings, and winter level should already be prepared before the pillow goes onto the pool. Following a defined order reduces the need to reopen the cover because a drain plug, hose, skimmer, water level, or piece of hardware was missed.
- Begin planning about 7 days before closing
- Complete the first inspection after 24 hours
- Inflate the pillow to about 70%
- Made with 0.5 mm cold-resistant PVC
- Material range: β25Β°C to 80Β°C
- Available in 6 flat sizes
- Flat sizes range from 3 Γ 3 ft to 4 Γ 15 ft
- Mini Boston-style valve
- Reinforced grommets and securing rope included
- Pump or blower not included
What an Ice Equalizer Pillow Does
An ice equalizer pillow is a flexible air chamber placed beneath an above-ground winter cover. It supports one part of the closing setup but does not perform the water-treatment, plumbing, equipment, drainage, or cover-fastening work.
Creates Central Cover Lift
A partly inflated pillow raises a section beneath the middle of the flexible cover. The raised area may reduce one deep central basin where rainwater, melting snow, wet leaves, and debris would otherwise collect.
Leaves Flexible Air Space
At about 70% inflation, the chamber remains slightly soft instead of becoming a rigid dome. The remaining space allows the pillow to respond more gradually as air temperature and cover pressure change.
Completes the Final Setup
The pillow is placed after pool cleaning, water preparation, equipment care, plumbing work, and water-level adjustment. Installing it too early can interfere with tasks that still require open access to the pool.
Plan the Work Across Several Days
Spreading the work across several days gives enough time to inspect the pool, correct missing parts, allow the water treatment to circulate, and choose a dry period for pillow and cover installation.
| Timing | Main Work | Pillow Status |
|---|---|---|
| 7 Days Before | Inspect pool, cover, equipment, plugs, rope, and fittings | Clean, dry, and uninflated |
| 3β5 Days Before | Clean the pool and prepare required water treatment | Stored away from the work area |
| 1β2 Days Before | Prepare plumbing, pump, filter, heater, and hoses | Inspect PVC, seams, valve, and grommets |
| Closing Day | Confirm water level and finish equipment work | Inflate to about 70% and position |
| First 24 Hours | Allow cover, ropes, and water surface to settle | Recheck position and firmness |
| Closed Season | Inspect after major weather changes | Monitor shape, drift, and air level |
| Spring Opening | Remove surface water and debris first | Clean, dry, deflate, and store |
Allow Time for Missing Parts
A worn plug, damaged cover clip, leaking hose, missing rope, or incompatible pump fitting can delay the entire closing process. Early inspection leaves time to replace these parts before freezing weather arrives.
Choose a Suitable Weather Window
A dry, calm day makes large pillows and covers easier to handle. Strong wind may rotate the pillow, pull the cover out of position, or introduce leaves and debris while the pool remains open.
Keep the Final Day Focused
Closing day should concentrate on final water-level confirmation, pillow inflation, positioning, and cover installation. Tasks involving plumbing or equipment should already be finished whenever possible.
Gather Everything Before Closing Day
Prepare the required equipment in one accessible area. A missing tool or attachment can leave the pool uncovered while weather, wind, or falling debris changes the conditions.
Prepare Pool Equipment
Collect the parts required for the installed pool system.
- Winter plugs and fitting covers
- Skimmer protection parts
- Pump and filter drain components
- Hose caps or storage fittings
- Equipment manuals and instructions
The exact components depend on the pool, plumbing, pump, filter, heater, and winterization method.
Prepare Pillow Equipment
Set aside everything needed for pillow installation.
- EPN pool pillow in the selected size
- Included securing rope
- Compatible low-pressure pump
- Smooth ground tarp
- Soft cloth for the valve area
Keeping the pillow equipment separate prevents small parts from becoming mixed with plumbing and filter components.
Prepare Cover Equipment
Confirm that the winter-cover system is complete.
- Winter cover in usable condition
- Cable, clips, straps, or anchors
- Approved cover pump
- Drainage or discharge hose
- Soft-edged debris-removal tools
Inspect all fastening and drainage parts before the cover is spread across the pool.
Clean the Pool Before Winter Treatment
Leaves, insects, soil, algae, and loose debris should be removed before the winter cover is installed. Material left inside the pool remains below the water and cannot be reached without opening the cover.
Remove Surface Debris
Use a suitable skimmer net to collect floating leaves, insects, and other material. Clearing the surface first prevents debris from sinking while the walls and floor are being brushed.
Brush and Vacuum
Brush the wall, corners, steps, and floor using equipment approved for the liner. Vacuum settled debris so organic material is not left beneath the cover for several months.
Empty Collection Equipment
Clean skimmer baskets, pump baskets, automatic cleaner bags, and other collection parts. Material left inside wet equipment may produce odor, staining, or blockage during storage.
Prepare the Water Before Equipment Shutdown
Water treatment should be based on current test results, actual pool volume, sanitizer system, liner requirements, and the instructions supplied with the selected winter-treatment products.
Test the Current Water
Measure the water using an appropriate test method before adding treatment. Do not estimate chemical quantities from water appearance alone, because clear water may still require adjustment before long-term covering.
Follow Product Dosages
Use the dosage instructions for the actual pool volume and treatment product. Avoid combining chemicals in one container or using amounts intended for a different sanitizer, liner, or water capacity.
Allow Required Circulation
When the treatment instructions require circulation, complete it before the pump and plumbing are shut down. Give the system enough operating time to distribute the treatment through the water.
Prepare Pumps, Filters, and Heaters
Water left inside pool equipment may freeze and expand. Each pump, filter, heater, chlorinator, and accessory should be prepared according to its own instructions before severe cold begins.
Drain the Pump
Switch off power according to the equipment instructions before opening drain points. Remove water from the pump body and basket area where required, then store drain plugs in a labeled location.
Prepare the Filter
Sand, cartridge, and diatomaceous-earth filters follow different winter procedures. Use the correct method for the installed filter rather than applying one set of steps to every system.
Protect the Heater
Pool heaters may contain internal passages that retain water. Follow the heater instructions for draining, bypassing, disconnecting, or professional service before freezing temperatures arrive.
Remove Water from Exposed Lines
Hoses, skimmer connections, return lines, and above-ground plumbing sections can retain water after the circulation equipment stops. Remaining water may freeze inside fittings or low sections.
Disconnect Removable Hoses
Drain and disconnect flexible hoses when required by the system instructions. Hold each hose so trapped water can leave before it is loosely coiled and stored in a protected location.
Prepare Skimmer Connections
Use the specified skimmer plug, winter plate, insert, or water-level method for the installed pool. Check gaskets and sealing areas before completing the closure.
Protect Return Fittings
Install the correct return plug or closure after the water and plumbing work is complete. Confirm that the plug sits correctly and does not create a sharp contact point near the future pillow position.
Confirm the Final Level Before Adding the Pillow
The winter water level must be set before the pillow and cover are installed. Changing it afterward may require moving or reopening the cover and can alter the available clearance beneath the pillow.
Follow the Pool Instructions
The correct level depends on the pool, liner, skimmer, return fitting, winter plugs, and cover system. Do not use one general waterline measurement for every above-ground pool.
Avoid Excessive Draining
Water helps support the liner and applies outward pressure against the wall. Lowering it farther than required may reduce internal support and increase the distance between the cover and water surface.
Record the Starting Level
Measure from the water surface to a fixed rail or wall reference. A written starting measurement helps identify later water loss caused by leaks, drainage, evaporation, or changing winter conditions.
Complete the Final Open-Pool Inspection
Once the winter cover is secured, access to the pool wall, liner, fittings, and upper water area becomes limited. Complete one final inspection before the pillow is inflated.
Inspect the Pool Structure
Review the main structural areas.
- Check wall alignment
- Inspect the top rails
- Review upright connections
- Examine the bottom track
- Look for corrosion or damaged parts
Correct structural concerns before adding cover tension around the pool.
Inspect the Liner and Fittings
Check all accessible water-retaining areas.
- Look for liner cuts or pulling
- Inspect the skimmer opening
- Check return-fitting seals
- Review winter plugs
- Note any suspected leak area
Record suspicious locations so they can be checked against the winter water-level measurement.
Inspect the Work Area
Prepare a safe installation route.
- Remove tools from the deck
- Clear branches and debris
- Cover exposed sharp hardware
- Keep the walking route dry
- Prepare a clean inflation surface
A clear work area protects both the installers and the 0.5 mm PVC pillow.
Check the Pillow Before Inflation
Unfold the pillow completely on clean grass, a tarp, or another smooth surface. Inspecting it while flat makes it easier to follow the welded edges and view both panels.
Review the PVC Panels
Look across the full upper and lower surfaces for cuts, abrasion, deep creases, residue, or damage caused during shipping or storage. Check corners where folded material may have received more pressure.
Follow the Welded Edges
Trace the full perimeter seam with your hand and eyes. Look for open areas, irregular separation, rough sections, or damage that could affect normal inflation.
Check Valve and Grommets
Open and close the mini Boston-style valve before connecting the pump. Inspect each reinforced metal grommet and confirm that no sharp ring edge or torn PVC surrounds the attachment point.
Confirm the Pillow Size Before Inflation
The selected size affects handling, central coverage, wall clearance, cover slack, inflation time, and storage. All listed dimensions refer to the flat product before air is added.
| Pillow Size | Flat Area | Closing-Day Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| 3 Γ 3 ft | 9 sq ft | Compact size and easier handling |
| 5 Γ 5 ft | 25 sq ft | Moderate square center coverage |
| 6 Γ 6 ft | 36 sq ft | Broader rise for larger layouts |
| 8 Γ 8 ft | 64 sq ft | Requires more handling and cover slack |
| 4 Γ 8 ft | 32 sq ft | Follows medium elongated layouts |
| 4 Γ 15 ft | 60 sq ft | Long shape requiring careful alignment |
Compare the Water Area
Measure the usable water surface rather than only the outside pool frame. Skimmers, ladders, steps, return fittings, and internal obstacles may reduce available clearance.
Check Cover Slack
The cover needs enough material to settle over and around the inflated chamber. A larger pillow combined with limited cover slack may create a sharp ridge or excessive perimeter tension.
Plan the Carrying Route
Large 8 Γ 8 ft and 4 Γ 15 ft pillows may require two people after inflation. Prepare a direct route from the inflation area to the pool without rough concrete or sharp hardware.
Inflate the Chamber to About 70%
The goal is a formed but flexible chamber, not maximum firmness. The pillow should look rounded while yielding slightly when pressed by hand.
Use Low-Pressure Equipment
Connect a compatible low-pressure pump or blower to the valve. High-pressure equipment may add air too quickly and make it difficult to stop at the intended firmness.
Check the Shape Gradually
Pause during inflation and compare the corners, surface, and welded edges. The pillow should rise evenly without appearing stretched, hard, or sharply domed.
Close the Valve Securely
Remove the pump and close the mini Boston-style valve according to its design. Confirm that the cap is aligned and free from sand, leaves, hair, or folded PVC.
Prepare the Position Before Spreading the Cover
The pillow should be reasonably close to the usable center before the winter cover is unfolded. Rope should limit uncontrolled movement without holding the chamber under heavy tension.
Prepare Opposing Lines
Measure and attach rope sections before placing the pillow onto the water. Similar line lengths make it easier to identify which side needs a small adjustment.
Guide Rather Than Pull
Use moderate tension through reinforced grommets. Pulling one rope very tight may hold the pillow near a wall, stretch one attachment area, or rotate a rectangular chamber.
Keep Knots Accessible
Place adjustment knots outside the future cover edge where they can be checked safely. Avoid hiding knots beneath the cover or routing rope over sharp rail components.
Spread the Winter Cover in Stages
The cover may push, rotate, or drag the pillow as it moves across the water. Pause during installation rather than assuming the original position will remain unchanged.
Cover the First Half
Begin from the planned direction and move the cover gradually. Keep hard clips, cable ends, and tools away from the exposed pillow surface during the first stage.
Pause and Recheck
When approximately half of the pool is covered, compare the raised area and rope lengths. Correct obvious rotation or movement before the remaining cover hides the chamber.
Fasten the Perimeter
Align the cover overlap and secure opposing areas in stages. Use the fastening method specified for the winter cover; pillow ropes do not replace cables, clips, straps, or anchors.
Recheck the Complete Setup the Next Day
Water, ropes, pillow air, and cover tension may settle during the first day. Early correction is easier before rain, snow, leaves, or freezing conditions add weight.
| Check Point | What to Look For | Normal Starting Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Pillow Position | Raised area remains near the center | Broad, reasonably central rise |
| Pillow Firmness | No major loss of shape | Slightly soft at about 70% |
| Rope Tension | No single line becomes very tight | Moderate and balanced |
| Cover Overlap | Similar material around the perimeter | No sharply stretched side |
| Water Level | Close to the recorded measurement | No unexpected drop |
| Cover Surface | No major water or debris basin | Light settling only |
Compare the Raised Area
Walk around the pool and observe the cover from several directions. The pillow does not need perfect mathematical alignment, but the high area should not rest close to one wall.
Check Every Fastening Area
Review cables, clips, straps, anchors, and cover overlap. One side should not appear much tighter or shorter than the opposite area.
Record Early Changes
Note the pillow shape, water level, cover profile, and any movement. A short written record makes later weather-related changes easier to compare.
Inspect After Conditions Change
Winter inspections should follow weather events rather than relying only on a fixed monthly date. A single storm or thaw can change the cover profile within several hours.
Check After Rain and Wind
Review the setup after moving weather.
- Look for new standing water
- Check shifted cover overlap
- Inspect pillow position
- Review rope tension
- Remove accessible debris
Wind and rainfall often move the main low area away from its original location.
Check After Snow and Thawing
Review changing surface loads.
- Compare dry and wet snow
- Inspect during rapid melting
- Keep pump inlets open
- Check for refrozen water
- Watch one-sided buildup
Snow that becomes wet may place more load on the cover than its visible depth suggests.
Check During Stable Periods
Complete routine seasonal checks.
- Compare the water level
- Observe pillow firmness
- Check fastening components
- Review wall clearance
- Inspect pump and hose condition
Slow changes can develop even when no major storm has occurred.
Remove the Pillow in the Correct Order
Spring opening begins with the material resting on top of the cover. Removing the cover before water and debris are managed may allow dirty surface material to enter the pool.
Remove Surface Water
Use an approved pump, drain, or siphon before loosening the cover. Keep the discharge hose directed away from the pool base and confirm the remaining cover is still safely secured.
Clear Remaining Debris
Remove leaves, twigs, dirt, and softened organic material using cover-safe tools from outside the pool. Wait for remaining ice to melt instead of breaking it with sharp equipment.
Clean and Store the Pillow
Untie and remove the pillow after the cover is ready to move. Wash both sides, dry completely, release the remaining air, and store with loose folds in a dry indoor location.
Ice Equalizer Pillow FAQs
When Should the Pillow Be Installed?
Install it after cleaning, water preparation, equipment shutdown, plumbing work, and final water-level adjustment, but before the winter cover is fully secured.
Why Should the Pillow Be Inflated to 70%?
About 70% inflation creates a rounded but flexible chamber. The remaining internal space helps reduce continuous pressure on seams and allows normal response to temperature changes.
Can the Pillow Replace Plumbing Winterization?
No. Pumps, filters, heaters, hoses, skimmers, and return lines must be prepared separately according to their own instructions.
Can I Change the Water Level After Covering?
It may require reopening or adjusting the cover and pillow. Set and record the required winter water level before installing the pillow.
How Soon Should I Recheck the Setup?
Complete the first inspection after approximately 24 hours. Check the pillow position, firmness, rope tension, cover overlap, water level, and surface buildup.
Does the Pillow Keep the Cover Dry?
No. It may reduce one deep central basin, but standing water can still form. Approved pumping and regular winter cover care remain necessary.
Is One Size Suitable for Every Pool?
No. Compare the usable water area, cover slack, pool shape, wall clearance, obstacles, and installation space before choosing a size.
Can I Use a High-Pressure Air Compressor?
A compatible low-pressure pump or blower provides better control. High-pressure equipment may inflate the chamber too quickly or beyond the intended firmness.
Can the Pillow Be Installed During Strong Wind?
Calm conditions are easier and safer for handling large pillows and covers. Strong wind may rotate the pillow or pull the cover out of position.
What Should Be Checked During Winter?
Inspect after rain, strong wind, snow, thawing, freezing rain, and periodically during stable weather. Watch water level, cover tension, pillow shape, and surface buildup.
When Should the Pillow Be Removed?
Remove it during spring opening after surface water and debris have been managed and the winter cover is ready to come off.
Is an Air Pump Included?
No. The package includes the pillow, securing rope, and instructions. A compatible low-pressure pump or blower must be prepared separately.
Follow the Closing Order from Start to Finish
A reliable seasonal closing depends on completing each task before the next one begins. The pillow should be one of the final components installed, not a shortcut around unfinished pool preparation.
Before the cover is secured:
- Inspect the pool and winter equipment about 7 days ahead
- Clean the water, walls, floor, and collection equipment
- Test and prepare the water according to the product instructions
- Drain or prepare pumps, filters, heaters, and hoses
- Protect skimmer and return fittings
- Set and record the required winter water level
- Inspect the 0.5 mm PVC, seams, valve, and grommets
- Confirm the selected pillow size
- Inflate the chamber to about 70%
- Guide the pillow near the usable center
- Spread and fasten the cover in stages
- Complete the first inspection after 24 hours
- Recheck after major winter weather
- Remove surface water and debris before spring opening
- Clean and dry the pillow before indoor storage
EPN ice equalizer pillows are available in six flat sizes from 3 Γ 3 ft to 4 Γ 15 ft. Choose the option according to the pool layout, usable water area, cover slack, and installation space.
