Falling temperatures can a game-changer, whether they are triggered by a polar vortex or other winter weather. They can wreak havoc on your swimming-pool equipment. When water freezes in a pool system, it can cause serious damage to your pump, filter and heater, leaving you with hefty repair bills.
But with a few precautionary routines—and a trustworthy alert system—you can still enjoy the four-season swimming that Texas offers. Here’s what to do the next time a cold wind blows through town:
- First and foremost, you need to know when freezing conditions are around the corner. Catch the evening weather report or sign up for freeze alerts on weather.com. There’s even an alert system that includes flashing lights and a high-decibel beep when temperatures fall below a preset level. Most reliable is a freeze-protection unit in your pool system, which puts your pump into action at the right time. Some pumps have this feature built in, while others require an add-on. Give us a call at Creative Pool Designs by Express for more information on your Hayward equipment.
- If it looks like a big chill is on its way, run your pump around the clock with all valves open. Be sure to turn off the timer! Since moving water doesn’t freeze, this should do the trick. But if the deep freeze happens in the middle of a winter storm and you lose power, it’s time for Plan B. As quickly as possible, turn off the breaker so that your pump won’t restart without water. Then unscrew the drain plugs on your pump, heater and filter. Open the filter air bleeder and pool line valves. If you have a saltwater system, remove the chlorinator tubing and lid and pour pool antifreeze in the skimmers. When the lights and the breaker are back on, replace the drain plugs and prime the pump before starting it up again.
- If you do everything right, lift up the pump lid and still see ice, you can take several steps. Turn off the breaker so nothing jumps back into action. Drape the equipment in heavy blankets and, under your constant watch, set up an electric heater near the equipment. Once it thaws, turn the breaker back on, start up the pump and look for damage. If you see cracks or water spurting out, shut it back down and drain all water out before calling in the pros.
Want to know more? Feel free to give us a call at Creative Pool Designs By Express.
