hey matt,
Niiiice. Thank you. just a few ?'s

What do you mean the top of the filter will be open? Is the top taken off and stored inside?

2nd......the exposed hole (the return and skimmer) should they be capped off say w/ duck tape or something to keep critters out of the pool?

3rd.... the sand in the filter is only 3 months used, and I would like to leave it in there as you suggest, but won't it mold and grow "stuff"? I mean for 20 to 30 bucks, what's emptying it all out and then moving the pump AND filter to a garage????

I didn't know if we should close off openings to pool interior for extra cleanliness ........and to keep cold mice out during winter months.

I do intend to cover my pool w/ a top grade winter cover cause I have ALOT of trees around. (my photo is in above gr. pool gallery if you d like to see)

Anywho.........thanks so far. My pool dealer provided me w/ a top notch ester williams pool, however post sale cust. service sucks. So, I figured I'd turn to my favorite pool experts who will better serve me any way. You all have not failed me yet.
THANKS AGAIN