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Tips To Winter-Proof Your Pool Before A Storm

When freezing temperatures arrive in Austin, your pool requires extra care to prevent costly damage. Cold weather can wreak havoc on your pool equipment and plumbing, but with the right steps, you can keep your pool safe and functional through the winter months.

Your friendly pool service experts at YardDoc will walk you through essential tips for protecting your pool during a freeze—whether you have an advanced automation system or are working with more manual methods.

Winter Pool Tips: How To Protect Your Pool From Freezing Temps

Check Your Freeze Protection System. Most pool control systems installed within the last 5 – 10 years will have a built-in freeze protection system. Check that your equipment pad still has power during a freeze. If you have power, your system will kick in at a pre-set temperature, keeping systems running until air temperatures rise. The movement of the water from the larger body of water in the pool itself will help to prevent it from freezing.
Keep Your Pool Equipment Running. If you do not have pool automation or a functioning freeze protection system then run your pool equipment 24/7 until freezing conditions pass.
Top Off Your Water Level. In freeze protection mode, fountains and other water features will continue to run, sometimes losing water. You don’t want to be in a position where you need to shut them off because the water level is too low.
Shut Off Autofill. If your pool has an autofill feature, you should shut it off and drain the line. Turn off the water supply at the RPZ (backflow device) and then go to the autofill valve and push the float down to release any water pressure still in the line.

Expert Pool Maintenance Year-Round

How To Protect Your Pool If You Lose Power

If your power goes out, your pool’s built-in freeze protection system will not work. You can still protect your pool during freezing temperatures with these tips from YardDoc in Austin, TX:

Turn Off The Breaker. Turn off the breaker to your pool equipment to prevent an unplanned start-up when power resumes, as you may need to check for equipment damage first.
Drain Water From All Pool Equipment. Remove drain plugs from each piece of equipment, including your filter, pumps, and heater. If the equipment is below the pool water level, close all valves beforehand. If the equipment is above the pool water level, open all valves to further drain the equipment.
Cover Your Pool Equipment. Protect your equipment with blankets, towels, or tarps. Don’t cover the equipment while it is still running. Once temperatures rise again, be sure to remove coverings before re-starting your pool equipment.

Protect Your Pool In Austin Year-Round With YardDoc's Pool Services

Taking proactive steps to protect your pool during freezing temperatures is crucial for avoiding expensive repairs and ensuring your pool is ready to use when the warmer months return. By following these tips, you can safeguard your pool equipment, plumbing, and overall system from the challenges of winter weather.

Need expert help with your pool maintenance this winter? Contact YardDoc today! Our team of professionals is here to ensure your pool stays in top condition, no matter the season.