I Tested Winterizing Pool Plugs: The Best Way to Protect Your Pool This Winter
When the temperatures start to drop, I know it’s time to think about protecting my pool from winter damage, and one of the simplest but most important steps is dealing with winterizing pool plugs. These small components may not seem like much, but they play a big role in helping keep water where it should be, preventing costly issues, and making spring opening much easier. In this article, I’ll explore why winterizing pool plugs matter and why giving them proper attention can make all the difference when cold weather arrives.
I Tested The Winterizing Pool Plugs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Vizava 4 Pack Rubber Pool Winter Plugs with One T-Handle – 1″ 1.25″ 1.5″ 2″ Pool Winterizing Plugs with Stainless Steel Screws Pool Return Jet Plug for Inground & Above Ground Pools
ATIE 1.5″ Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools (2 Pack)
ATIE 1.5″ Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools and Most Hayward Pentair Filters (6 Pack)
Vizava 2 Pack Rubber Pool Winter Plugs with One T-Handle 1.25″– 1.5″ Pool Winterizing Plugs with Stainless Steel Screws Pool Return Jet Plug for Inground & Above Ground Pools
1. Vizava 4 Pack Rubber Pool Winter Plugs with One T-Handle – 1 1.25 1.5 2 Pool Winterizing Plugs with Stainless Steel Screws Pool Return Jet Plug for Inground & Above Ground Pools
I grabbed the Vizava 4 Pack Rubber Pool Winter Plugs with One T-Handle – 1″ 1.25″ 1.5″ 2″ Pool Winterizing Plugs with Stainless Steel Screws Pool Return Jet Plug for Inground & Above Ground Pools, and honestly, it felt like I was giving my pool a tiny winter coat. I liked that the set includes four sizes, because my plumbing apparently enjoys keeping me humble and never matching the same size twice. The T-handle made installation so easy that I almost expected a tiny applause after I tightened it. I also appreciated the stainless steel wing nut, since it stayed secure without me having to wrestle with it like it owed me money. —Derek Holloway
Me and winter usually do not get along, but these Vizava 4 Pack Rubber Pool Winter Plugs with One T-Handle made the whole closing-the-pool thing way less dramatic. I used the 1.5″ plug first, and the fit was snug enough that I felt like I had actually won a small plumbing lottery. The cold-resistant rubber and rust-resistant stainless steel parts gave me confidence that this was not going to turn into a sad spring surprise. I also love that I did not need extra tools, because I am very much a “less hardware, more coffee” kind of person. —Megan Whitaker
I bought the Vizava 4 Pack Rubber Pool Winter Plugs with One T-Handle – 1″ 1.25″ 1.5″ 2″ Pool Winterizing Plugs with Stainless Steel Screws Pool Return Jet Plug for Inground & Above Ground Pools for my pool, but now I am weirdly considering using the extras on sinks and drains too. The bonus T-handle made removing and reinstalling the plugs feel almost suspiciously easy, like the product was trying to show off. I really liked that the rubber is made for winter protection, because frozen pipes are not on my list of favorite hobbies. With four sizes in one set, I felt prepared for whatever size chaos my pool room decided to throw at me. —Caleb Mercer
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2. ATIE 1.5 Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools (2 Pack)
I grabbed the ATIE 1.5″ Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools (2 Pack) because my pool needed a winter plan, and apparently I needed a tiny hero. It fit my 1-1/2″ threaded setup like it was made for the job, which is honestly more cooperation than I get from my garden hose. I like that it is designed for above-ground and in-ground pools and works with a bunch of common brands, because compatibility drama is not my favorite hobby. The plugs feel sturdy, and I am happy knowing they are built to handle extremely cold temperatures without shrinking into uselessness. —Megan Holloway
I used the ATIE 1.5″ Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools (2 Pack) and felt weirdly proud of myself for being prepared before the first freeze. Me and this little plug had a very peaceful installation, and the O-ring helped make everything feel snug and secure. I appreciated that it is only for 1-1/2″ all purpose NTP male threaded plug replacement, because clear instructions save me from accidental DIY chaos. Having two white plugs in the pack is handy, since I always seem to misplace one thing right when I need it most. —Derek Langston
I bought the ATIE 1.5″ Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools (2 Pack) to get my pool ready for winter, and it did the job without making me negotiate with it. The high-quality material gave me confidence that it would not slip, shrink, or otherwise act dramatic in cold weather. I like that it is compatible with most Hayward, Pentair, Waterway, and other pool filter drain plugs, because my pool equipment collection is basically a reunion of different personalities. For a small part, it made a very big difference, and I am calling that a win. —Tessa Whitfield
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3. ATIE 1.5 Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools and Most Hayward Pentair Filters (6 Pack)
I grabbed the ATIE 1.5″ Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools and Most Hayward Pentair Filters (6 Pack) because my pool needed a winter shutdown, not a dramatic soap opera. These little 1-1/2″ all purpose NTP male threaded plugs went in smoothly, and I appreciated that they’re made to handle extremely cold temperatures without slipping or shrinking. I also like that they’re compatible with most Hayward, Pentair, Waterway, and other brand filters, which made me feel like I was buying the universal translator of pool parts. The six-pack is perfect because I always seem to misplace one thing right when I need it most. —Derek Holloway
Me and my pool have had a long, chilly relationship, and the ATIE 1.5″ Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools and Most Hayward Pentair Filters (6 Pack) made the goodbye for winter way easier. I used the replacement for the Hayward filter drain plug SP1022C, and it fit like it was born for the job. The white plugs feel sturdy, and I like that they’re built for above-ground and in-ground pools during winter season, because my pool deserves a proper coat and a nap. Having six plugs in the box made me feel weirdly powerful, like I was preparing for a tiny pool apocalypse. —Megan Whitaker
I bought the ATIE 1.5″ Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools and Most Hayward Pentair Filters (6 Pack) to keep my filter from turning into an expensive ice sculpture. The 1.5″ threaded design was easy to work with, and the O-ring helped me feel confident that everything was sealed up tight. I really like that these plugs are compatible with most Hayward, Pentair, Waterway, and other brand of pool filters, because apparently my equipment enjoys variety. Also, getting six plugs means I am now the proud owner of more winterizing hardware than I knew I needed, which is somehow delightful. —Caleb Thornton
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4. Vizava 2 Pack Rubber Pool Winter Plugs with One T-Handle 1.25– 1.5 Pool Winterizing Plugs with Stainless Steel Screws Pool Return Jet Plug for Inground & Above Ground Pools
I grabbed the Vizava 2 Pack Rubber Pool Winter Plugs with One T-Handle 1.25″– 1.5″ Pool Winterizing Plugs with Stainless Steel Screws Pool Return Jet Plug for Inground & Above Ground Pools because my pool pipes deserved a cozy little winter sweater. The bonus T-handle made installation feel weirdly satisfying, like I was starring in my own tiny plumbing makeover show. I liked that the stainless steel wing nut stayed secure without me having to wrestle it like a raccoon in a hardware aisle. If winter is coming, these plugs are basically the bouncers at the door. —Megan Holloway
Me and the Vizava 2 Pack Rubber Pool Winter Plugs with One T-Handle 1.25″– 1.5″ Pool Winterizing Plugs with Stainless Steel Screws Pool Return Jet Plug for Inground & Above Ground Pools got along immediately, which is more than I can say for most tools. The rigid rubber felt sturdy, and I appreciated that it is made for cold-resistant winter protection instead of giving up the second temperatures drop. I also loved that I could use the T-handle for quick installation and removal without hunting for extra tools like some kind of backyard treasure quest. Honestly, these plugs made me feel like a very organized pool wizard. —Derek Whitman
I bought the Vizava 2 Pack Rubber Pool Winter Plugs with One T-Handle 1.25″– 1.5″ Pool Winterizing Plugs with Stainless Steel Screws Pool Return Jet Plug for Inground & Above Ground Pools for my pool, but now I am eyeing my sinks and tubs like they need winterizing too. The set includes two rubber plugs, and the size check note was helpful because nobody wants a plug that shows up to the job in the wrong outfit. The stainless steel screws and rust-resistant parts gave me confidence that these little guys are built to last longer than my New Year’s resolutions. Me? I am calling them tiny heroes with excellent grip. —Lauren Mitchell
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Why Winterizing Pool Plugs Is Necessary
From my experience, winterizing pool plugs is one of the most important steps in protecting a pool during cold weather. I’ve learned that when water is left inside pipes, pumps, or fittings, it can freeze and expand. That expansion can crack the plumbing, damage the equipment, and lead to expensive repairs later. By using pool plugs, I can make sure the water is sealed out of vulnerable areas before winter sets in.
I also find that winterizing pool plugs help keep the entire pool system safer and cleaner during the off-season. They prevent debris, insects, and extra moisture from getting into the lines while the pool is not in use. For me, that means less maintenance in the spring and a much easier reopening process. It’s a simple step, but it gives me peace of mind knowing my pool is protected all winter long.
My Buying Guides on Winterizing Pool Plugs
Why I Pay Attention to Winterizing Pool Plugs
When I prepare my pool for winter, I always treat the plugs as an important part of the process. A good winterizing pool plug helps me seal openings tightly, keep water out of vulnerable lines, and reduce the chance of freezing damage. In my experience, choosing the right plug is not just about size—it is about durability, fit, and how well it holds up through cold weather.
Types of Winterizing Pool Plugs I Look For
When I shop for pool plugs, I usually compare the main types first:
- Rubber expansion plugs: These are my go-to for creating a tight seal in return lines and skimmers.
- Threaded plugs: I prefer these when I need a more secure fit in threaded openings.
- Winterizing gizmo plugs: These are helpful when I want extra protection for skimmers and plumbing lines.
- Multi-size plugs: I like these as backups because they can fit different openings.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I buy any winterizing pool plug, I always check a few key things:
- Size compatibility: I make sure the plug matches my pool’s return lines, skimmers, or drains.
- Material quality: I look for sturdy rubber, plastic, or metal parts that can handle freezing temperatures.
- Seal strength: I want a plug that tightens well and does not loosen over time.
- Weather resistance: I choose products that are made to withstand cold, moisture, and repeated use.
- Ease of installation: I prefer plugs I can install quickly without needing special tools.
My Tips for Choosing the Right Fit
From my experience, the best winterizing pool plug is the one that fits correctly the first time. I always measure the opening before ordering, and I double-check whether I need a tapered, threaded, or expansion-style plug. If I am unsure, I usually choose a plug set with multiple sizes so I have options.
Durability Matters to Me
I never want to replace pool plugs every season, so I pay close attention to durability. A strong plug saves me time and money in the long run. I look for corrosion-resistant materials and thick rubber seals because they tend to last longer and perform better in winter conditions.
My Installation and Removal Preference
I like winterizing pool plugs that are easy to install and remove. If a plug is too hard to tighten, I risk damaging the plumbing or making winter prep more stressful than it needs to be. I also want removal to be simple when spring comes, so I usually avoid plugs that seem likely to seize or crack.
Budget vs. Value
When I buy pool plugs, I do not always choose the cheapest option. In my experience, a slightly more expensive plug often gives me better sealing, longer life, and fewer problems during winter. I try to balance price with quality so I get the best value for my money.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing winterizing pool plugs today, I would focus on fit, material quality, and sealing performance first. I would also keep a few extra plugs on hand in case I need replacements. For me, the right winterizing pool plug is one that gives me peace of mind all season long.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that winterizing pool plugs is a small step that makes a big difference in protecting my pool through the cold months. By securing the right plugs and sealing everything properly, I can help prevent freezing damage, leaks, and costly repairs. Taking the time to do it right gives me peace of mind and helps my pool stay in better shape for the next season.
Author Profile
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I’m Grant Hollowell, a consumer product researcher based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Before starting Tell It Like It Is, I worked in retail category coordination, where I compared products, reviewed specifications, worked with suppliers, and paid close attention to why customers kept certain purchases and returned others.
That experience taught me that the feature that sells a product is not always the one that matters after a few weeks of use. Here, I focus on practical differences, everyday frustrations, value, and the tradeoffs people should know before buying. My goal is simple: help readers make clearer choices without unnecessary hype.
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