A clean and sparkling swimming pool requires more than chlorine and elbow grease. The machinery of a well-functioning pool system depends on a variety of components, big or small. In this case, the humble pool plug is among the smaller components necessary to keep your pool running, but it is still extremely vital nonetheless.
Pool plugs come in various shapes, materials, and sizes, and each kind plays a specific role that keeps your pool in excellent shape. Today, let’s go over everything you need to know about the different types of pool plugs and what each one does.
Main Takeaways
- There are many types of pool plugs, including winterization plugs, filter plugs, pump plugs, heater plugs, hydrostatic plugs, test plugs, and one-way plugs.
- All of these plugs have different purposes in helping you to maintain your swimming pool.
- If you need a replacement pool plug, you can easily find one online or in person at your local pool or hardware store.
Types of Pool Plugs and What Each One Does
There are various types of plugs for your pool, and each one is meant for a different purpose. Most are typically a quarter of an inch to an inch in size and diameter. Here’s a breakdown of the most common pool plug types, what each one does, and where you can find them.
Winterization Plugs
As the name suggests, winterization plugs help to winterize your pool during the cold season. They are tapered rubber plugs with dual stainless steel washers and a bolt through the center, and they come in various sizes. Also known as “expansion plugs,” winterization plugs expand to create a tight seal when you tighten the wing nut on top, which helps to preserve your lines and skimmers against cracking when temperatures drop below freezing.
Poweka offers excellent-quality winterization pool plugs—a pack of two costs around $10. But keep the size in mind, as winterization plugs can come in more than 10 sizes!
Filter Plugs
Filter plugs may be used in your pool’s filtration system. Not all filtration systems use plugs; others may use caps. You can easily tell the difference between the two, as plugs are male and caps are female. Still, other pools may use what’s called a “butterfly plug.” But no matter what type of filter plugs your pool uses, they help to let the pool filter drain the water.
ATIE is a popular choice for pool filter plugs compatible with most Hayward, Pentair, Jandy, Waterway, and other popular pool filter brands. A pair costs less than $7.
Pump Plugs
Pump plugs function similarly to filter plugs. They help to drain out the pump for servicing, maintenance, or cleaning chores. It’s worth noting that most pools will use a ¼-inch threaded plug – either with or without an O-ring. If the plug doesn’t have an O-ring, make sure to really seal it with the help of some Teflon tape.
The Hayward pool pump plug will fit most standard pumps, is compatible with most models, and comes with an O-ring. On the flip side, if you’re looking for something a bit bigger, Jandy pool pump plugs measure ½-inch on the threaded portion and come with O-rings as well. They are a great choice if you’re looking for pool pump plugs made of strong, durable material.
Heater Plugs
As the name implies, heater plugs are small plugs used to seal the outlets and inlets of pool heaters when they are not in use, during maintenance, or during winterization. They are generally made of brass or PVC and outfitted with O-rings to ensure a secure seal. These plugs generally measure ¼-inch.
Plugs for specific heater models are usually available in pool stores, and I recommend checking with your local pool store to figure out which is best compatible with your system. However, as mentioned, most pool plugs will fit a ¼-inch heater plug made of either plastic or brass.
Hydrostatic Plugs
Hydrostatic plugs are located in the bottom center hole of your pool in the main drain. These plugs are incredibly important, as they help to prevent the pool shell from floating or popping due to hydrostatic pressure when you drain your inground pool. There are two types of hydrostatic plugs: automatic and manual.
A popular hydrostatic plug I recommend is the Hayward hydrostatic plug.
Test Plugs
Test plugs are straight, non-tapering plugs with large wing nuts to ensure tightening. Pool professionals primarily use them for pressure testing pool or plumbing lines during repair or installation work. These temporary plugs, made primarily of steel, rubber, or plastic, push air out of lines.
If you’re on the hunt for a new test plug, this steel mechanical test plug is a great option that fits most purposes.
One-Way Plugs
One-way plugs are specialized plugs designed to blow air in one direction, which, in turn, pushes water out through the plug. Once the water is out, the plug prevents it from coming back in. This type of plug is useful for winterization. A plastic cap is also placed on the opening as extra assurance.
A plug I would recommend is this 1.5” one-way plug that comes with a cap and O-ring.
While I have offered recommendations of pool plugs for each type of purpose, always keep in mind the size, material, and specific pool compatibility of the plug you require for your pool before you go ahead. Check with your local pool supply store or ask an expert (like me!) for personalized recommendations if you are unsure.
Where to Find Replacement Pool Plugs
Replacement plugs are widely available, both in person and online. But where exactly can you go to find them?
Pool Supply Stores
A pool supply store is likely to be your best option for finding the exact type and model of the plug you need. Such stores carry a large variety of pool spare parts, equipment, and accessories, so finding the selection of plugs necessary for your purpose, be it winterization, draining your pool, or general maintenance, will be easy. Not only that, but the advantage of a pool supply store is that you get to consult directly with a pool professional and get expert advice on whether you’re making the right purchase.
This advice and help are invaluable since plugs vary widely in diameter and function, and some guidance can go a long way. Plus, if your supply store doesn’t stock the specific plugs you need, they can always point you in the direction of a retailer that does or may even source one for you.
Online Retailers
In case you’re in a remote part of town or are feeling too lazy to visit a store in person, and you know exactly the model and type of plug you need, it’s a simple matter of ordering it from an online retailer. Retailers like Amazon and Walmart sell pool plugs of all shapes and sizes, but you can also opt for websites of pool equipment manufacturers or specialty pool supply stores. The advantages of an online retailer are slightly lower prices and the convenience of having the plugs delivered to you, but be mindful of shipping costs and of ordering the wrong plug!
Local Hardware Stores
Some hardware stores might carry a basic selection of generic pool plugs, although this isn’t guaranteed. If you’re out of options and need a standard plug in a pinch, it’s worth checking out your local hardware store. At the very least, they might be able to direct you to a store that does stock what you need.
Need Some Maintenance Help?
Send me a message! I can answer any of your pool maintenance, equipment, or other questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size plug for pool return?
Pool return lines most commonly need a 1.5-inch plug or a size 9. While this may be standard, it’s best to check a manual, measure the opening, or double-check with an expert on what size to choose. Shoot me an email and I’m happy to help.
What kind of plug does a pool pump use?
Most pool pumps use a 1/4-inch threaded or plastic plug, some with an O-ring and some without, depending on the specific model.
Pool Plugs: Small Yet Essential Pool Components
That wraps up the various types of pool plugs and their many uses! You should now be equipped to tackle any task—be it winterization, cleaning, testing, or maintenance—with ease. Plugs are the small, unsung heroes that help you keep your pool clean and free of trouble. If you’re still doubtful about which replacement plug to purchase or where to get it, please shoot me a message for help.
Do you have any further questions about pool plugs or other pressing issues related to pool maintenance? Let me know!
