Protect Your Pool This Winter: The Above Ground Pool Skimmer Plug Guide (Fits Hayward 5⅝" × 5⅞")

Closing the pool for winter doesn’t have to be a headache. The right pool skimmer plug will allow you to quickly close off the skimmer opening to drain and remove hoses (keeping the skimmer body and piping safe from freezing), blocks debris, and saves you time (and money) when spring rolls back around. If you own a Hayward-style skimmer or other with a 5 5/8" H × 5 7/8" W opening, this above ground pool skimmer plug is built to be the simple, effective solution you need.

Below we’ll walk you through what this pool skimmer plug does, why the fit and materials matter, quick installation, tips for winterizing, and a short FAQ to answer the common questions pool owners ask.

Why use a pool skimmer plug?

A pool skimmer plug (sometimes called a skimmer winter plug or pool wall skimmer plug) is a small investment that protects the skimmer housing and plumbing from freeze damage. Instead of draining below the skimmer or using bulky, awkward blocks, you push the plug into the skimmer opening to create an airtight seal — keeping ice, leaves, and critters out.

This specific plug is designed for Hayward-style skimmers (and compatible models) and fits most standard 6" above ground pool skimmers — perfect if you own a Hayward SP1090/SP1091LX, Aquador 1090, Kokido K001WBX, Poolmaster 32190, Proline Standard 60496, or similar units.

Key product details at a glance:

• Product type: Above ground pool skimmer plug / winter skimmer plug

• Designed for: Hayward SP1090, SP1091LX, Aquador 1090, Kokido K001WBX, Poolmaster 32190, Proline Standard 60496 (and compatible skimmers)

• Opening size fit: 5 5/8" H × 5 7/8" W (fits most 6" skimmer openings)

• Material: UV-resistant, chemical-proof high-density foam

• Installation: Tool-free — push into skimmer opening (no draining required)

• Function: Blocks debris and ice, provides airtight seal for winterizing

Built for the elements: materials & durability

Not all skimmer plugs are created equal. This pool skimmer plug uses high-density foam that’s both chemical-resistant and UV-resistant — meaning it won’t break down quickly in sunlight or from pool chemicals before you even get to winter. The foam is firm enough to form an airtight seal, yet forgiving enough to install without tools.

That durability matters: a cheap, brittle plug can crack, let water in, and defeat the whole purpose of winterizing. This design aims to be reusable year after year.

Tool-free winterizing: how to install the skimmer plug in 3 steps

One of the best features of this plug is how simple it is to use — no tools, no draining below the skimmer throat, no complicated adapters.

1. Clean the skimmer mouth: Remove large debris and dry the area if possible. However, it is fine to fit plug under water.

2. Insert the plug: Align the foam plug with the skimmer opening (fits the 5 5/8" H × 5 7/8" W Hayward-style opening) and push firmly until it seats.

3. Test the seal: Gently tug to make sure it’s snug. The airtight fit should block debris and reduce freezing risk.

Tip: For extra winter protection in very cold climates, some owners pair the skimmer plug with a small float or cover above the skimmer — but for most users this plug alone is adequate to seal and protect the pool skimmer, allowing the plumbing and filter to be disconnected and stored for winter.

Above ground or inground? Works for both

Although many shoppers look for an above ground pool skimmer plug, this design is also suitable for compatible inground skimmer models that match the opening size. The universal fit (for many Hayward-style skimmers) makes it a useful addition whether you have an above ground or inground pool.

Pros & cons

Pros

• Tool-free installation — push in and you’re done

• Compatible with Hayward-style skimmers with an opening size 5 5/8" × 5 7/8"

• Airtight seal blocks debris, critters, and ice

• High-density foam is UV- and chemical-resistant for all-weather durability

• Reusable year after year

Cons

• Must match your skimmer opening size — measure first (5 5/8" H × 5 7/8" W)

• Not a substitute for full winterizing best practices in extreme freeze climates (combine with other winterizing steps where needed)

Best practices for winterizing with a pool skimmer plug:

• Measure before buying — confirm your skimmer opening matches 5 5/8" H × 5 7/8" W (or a standard 6" skimmer).

• Don’t rely on a single method if you’re in extreme cold — pair the skimmer plug with proper waterline lowering (if required), winter covers, and blow out plumbing if your region experiences deep freezes.

• Store the plug indoors over summer — though durable, keeping it in shade when not in use prolongs life.

• Label and keep a winterizing kit — include the skimmer plug, an adapter/float if needed, and a small brush for skimmer mouths so next year’s closing is faster.

Who should buy this pool skimmer plug?

• Homeowners who want a simple, tool-free winterizing solution for Hayward-style skimmers.

• Above ground pool owners looking specifically for an above ground pool skimmer plug that fits most standard 6" skimmers.

• Anyone who wants to protect their skimmer and plumbing from freeze damage without draining pool or hiring a pro.

If you want the best pool skimmer plug for quick, no-drill winterizing and long-term durability, this Hayward-compatible foam plug is a smart, low-cost choice (around $10).

FAQ — with quick answers

Q: Will this skimmer plug fit my Hayward skimmer?

A: It’s engineered to fit Hayward SP1090/SP1091LX and similar models with a 5 5/8" H × 5 7/8" W opening. It also fits most standard 6" above ground skimmers. Measure your skimmer opening to be sure.

Q: Do I need tools to install the skimmer plug?

A: No — this is a tool-free winterizing solution. Simply push it into place for an airtight seal.

Q: Can I use this on inground pools?

A: Yes, if your inground skimmer has the compatible opening size. It’s marketed for above ground skimmers but works with compatible inground models as well.

Q: Will the foam hold up to pool chemicals and sun exposure?

A: Yes — it’s made from UV-resistant, chemical-proof high-density foam so it’s designed for all-weather durability.

Q: Do I need to drain my pool to use this plug?A: No. One of the key benefits is no draining required for installation — push it in and it seals the skimmer.

Final thoughts

Winterizing your pool doesn’t need to be complicated. A quality pool skimmer plug that fits your Hayward-style skimmer (5 5/8" × 5 7/8") is an affordable, effective way to protect your skimmer and plumbing from freeze damage — with zero tools and minimal fuss.

If you’re closing your pool this season and want a reliable, reusable solution, consider adding this above ground pool skimmer plug to your winterizing kit. Measure your skimmer opening, grab the plug, and enjoy a simpler, safer pool close.

👉 Ready to simplify winterizing? Grab the right pool skimmer plug for your Hayward skimmer and close your pool with confidence!

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