POOLHACKER Winterizing Pool Pillows

Maintaining an above-ground pool through the winter months requires more than just a sturdy cover - it needs a reliable way to relieve ice pressure and keep debris from collapsing your liner and walls. The POOLHACKER Pool Pillow steps in as an ice-compensating air cushion designed specifically for above-ground pools, offering an affordable, easy-to-use solution to protect your investment.

What Is a Pool Pillow?

An ice-compensating pool pillow sits beneath your winter cover and absorbs the expanding force of freezing water. Rather than fight pressure against the liner and metal or resin walls - risking damage or leaks - the pillow compresses as ice forms, then re-inflates on thawing, preserving both cover and pool structure.

Key Features & Specifications:

• Heavy-Duty Vinyl Construction

  Made from rugged, cold-resistant vinyl, POOLHACKER pool pillows are built to last through sub-zero cycles without cracking or tearing.

  
  

• Reinforced Grommets & Securing Rope

  Integrated corner grommets and a 50 ft rope (included) let you anchor the pillow securely in the center of your pool - no drifting pillows under your cover.

  
  

• Multiple Sizes & Pricing

  Available in 4 × 4 ft and 4 × 8 ft sizes, the pillows accommodate most round and oval above-ground pools. On POOLHACKER’s site, a single 4 × 4 ft pillow retails for around $25, while a 4 × 8 ft version starts at $35; also available in two-packs which can deliver even greater value.

  
  

• Ultra-Thick, Cold-Resistant Material

  While POOLHACKER doesn’t list exact gauge, comparable winterizing pillows typically use 0.4–0.5 mm PVC for maximum durability in freezing conditions.

  
  

Easy Installation in Four Steps:

1. Unpack & Inflate

   Use a standard air pump (not included) to inflate your pillow until it’s firm but not overstretched.

   
   

2. Center & Secure

   Position the pillow in the middle of the pool and run the rope through the grommets to the wall-mounted cleat or railing.

   
   

3. Add Winter Cover

   Stretch your winter cover over the pool, ensuring it rests evenly atop the pillow to form a cone that sheds rain, snow, and debris.

   
   

4. Check Tension

   Tug the rope lightly to center the pillow and maintain a gentle dome under the cover—this keeps runoff draining off the cover rather than pooling in the center.

   
   

Benefits of Using POOLHACKER Pool Pillows

• Wall & Cover Protection

  Absorbs ice expansion, preventing cracks or liner leaks.

  
  

• Debris & Water Management

  Elevates the cover into a sloped “tent,” so leaves, rain, and snow slide off rather than pooling and weighing down the cover.

  
  

• Cost-Effective

  More affordable than inflatable winter covers or professional winterizing services, while offering comparable protection.

  
  

• Low Maintenance

  After removal in spring, simply deflate, rinse, and store indoors for next season.

Pros & Cons at a Glance

Pros	Cons
Absorbs ice pressure to protect walls & liner	Requires manual inflation (no pump included)
Elevates cover to shed debris and water	May need two pillows for very large pools
Durable vinyl and reinforced grommets withstand harsh cold	Rope and grommets can corrode—inspect annually
Affordable sizing and bundle pricing	Storage space required for off-season

Is the POOLHACKER Pool Pillow Right for You?

If you own an above-ground pool in a region that freezes, and you’re looking for a simple, DIY winterizing solution, the POOLHACKER Pool Pillow delivers professional-grade protection without the premium price tag. By combining sturdy construction, easy anchoring, and effective ice management, it ensures your pool walls and cover emerge through winter unscathed - so come spring, you’ll be ready to open with confidence!

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