Don’t Let Winter Weather Damage Your Pool Equipment
Unpredictable weather in the fall and winter, especially sudden cold snaps, poses a serious risk to your pool system. Even in warmer regions, temperatures can plummet unexpectedly.
The danger lies in the physics of water: it expands by 9% when it freezes. This tremendous expansion force can swiftly lead to cracked pipes, burst pump housings, and the destruction of thousands of dollars worth of vital equipment in a single night.
Here’s your action plan for protection:
Keep the Water Circulating
The easiest defense is this simple rule: moving water won’t freeze solid. If your pool is operational, run your pump any time the temperature is forecast to drop below 40∘F (4.4∘C).
Even if the surface of your pool turns to ice, the constant flow of water through your plumbing will keep the system safe.
Pro Tip: Consider installing a freeze sensor. This handy device will automatically activate your pump when temperatures fall too low, saving you the hassle of constantly monitoring the weather.
Drain Everything Completely for Winterization
If you plan to close your pool for the season, you must ensure every drop of water is removed from the equipment. Since expanding ice is what causes cracks and costly damage, you need to remove all drain plugs from your pump, filter, heater, and chemical feeder (chlorinator).
Protect Your Skimmer from Destruction
A common, yet expensive, repair is a cracked skimmer, which can cost hundreds to replace. This happens when water sitting inside the skimmer freezes and the expanding ice fractures the walls.
Prevent this by installing a winter skimmer cover or a Gizzmo. If you have an above-ground pool, confirm that the skimmer is designed to drain freely.
Also, remove and store your skimmer baskets indoors in a dry place. Exposure to freezing temperatures can make them brittle and easily broken.
Watch Out for Hidden Vulnerabilities
Don’t forget about features that have their own plumbing systems:
- Water Features: Fountains and waterfalls have separate lines that are prone to freezing and cracking. Be sure to turn off the valves and completely drain these lines.
- Salt Water Systems: These require special care. Remove the expensive electrolytic cell (the salt cell) and bring it inside for safekeeping over the winter.
Remember: it’s not just a major, sustained deep freeze you need to worry about. Even one night below freezing (32∘F or 0∘C) can cause serious damage if your equipment isn’t prepared.
Enjoy the season!
