Securing a Winter Pillow with String

Описание: When winterizing your pool, it’s crucial not to overlook the importance of the winter pillow. Acting as a cushion and ice compensator, it plays a pivotal role in safeguarding your pool's structure from ice expansion. It relieves the stress made as the ice expands against the walls of your pool during the winter. Let’s dive into how to make sure that pillow stays put with string!

Key Takeaways:
1. Ice Stress Reliever: Your pool pillow is a vital player in taking the pressure off your pool walls when ice starts its expansion journey.
2. Safety First: Always ensure your pillow is inflated just right to avoid unexpected pops when ice pushes back.
3. Just Right: Proper placement and securing of the pillow are crucial for its effectiveness.

Step-by-step Process:
1. Inflation: Begin by inflating your pillow using a shop vac or air compressor. The inside portion of the red seal pushes in and opens enough to allow air to enter when using an air compressor or vacuum to inflate the pillow. Just be sure that there is a secure fit between the pillow valve and the compressor/vacuum nozzle so that air doesn't escape. The trick is to not fill it all the way, roughly 70% full, to allow room for pressure on the pillow as ice expands.
2. Seal it: Once inflated, shut the red cap. For added assurance, put a piece of duct tape over the cap. Here is the tutorial on how to properly inflate a winter pillow:    • How to Inflate and Secure a Winter Pillow  
For more details on inflation, you can watch this video:    • How to Properly Inflate a Winter Pillow  
3. String: Spot the grommet holes on two sides of the pillow. Loop a string through these holes, securing it with sturdy knots.
4. Pillow Positioning: Place the pillow in the pool's center. Make sure the string isn't too tight. The pillow should be comfortably resting on the water.
5. Tie-up: Now, anchor the pillow by tying each string end to the pool uprights.
6. Cover: With the pillow in place, it’s time to put on your winter pool cover.

Resources Mentioned:
1. Shop vac or air compressor: Handy tools for inflating the pillow.
2. Winter Pillow: Upholds your winter cover. Available in 3 sizes online here:
3. Duct tape: A secondary protective layer to prevent air leakage.
4. Winter Cover With Cable & Turnbuckle: Protect your pool all winter long with this durable shield.


FAQ Section:
Q1: Why do I need a winter pillow?
A: The pillow acts as a cushion, reducing pressure from ice on the pool's walls.

Q2: Should the pillow be fully inflated?
A: No. Filling it 70% of the way prevents potential pops when ice forms around it.

Q3: Why tape the red cap?
A: It's an extra precaution to ensure the pillow stays inflated all winter long.

Q4: Can I use any string?
A: It's recommended to use a strong and durable string like twine to ensure the pillow remains anchored. Avoid any string that contains metal as that can stain your liner if it should come loose during the winter and settle at the bottom of your pool.

Q5: Why is it important for the string securing the winter pillow to be firm but not too taut?
A: You do not want the string to be pulled too tightly because the pillow needs to rest on the water. If it is taut, it could snap under harsh weather conditions.

Q6: How often should I check the pillow during winter?
A: Periodically check on it, especially after heavy snowfalls or temperature drops, to ensure it's in place and undamaged.

Here at The Great Escape, we're all about ensuring your pool remains safe and sound during winter’s embrace. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. Dive into a worry-free winter!