The winters in Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) are generally mild. Average high temperatures are in the 50s and 60s, and you can comfortably carry on with daily life without too many weather-related interruptions.
However, that’s not to say that DFW is exempt from freezes. In fact, from November until around March, it’s not uncommon for temperatures to drop into the low to mid-30s. If you have a swimming pool and don’t have a winter pool cover, a pool freeze guard, or any pool pump freeze protection in place, these low temperatures can present problems.
With winter fast approaching, it’s time to prioritize pool freeze protection measures. Keep reading to learn what you need to do.
When to Activate Freeze Protocols
It’s time to activate your freeze protocols when overnight temperatures start dropping below 40°F. It’s even more critical if they are consistently in the low 30s – or lower! You may also err on the side of caution and start thinking about pool freeze protection if there’s wind chill or you’ve received warnings of power outages. Just a few hours below freezing is all it takes to stress your swimming pool’s pump and exposed plumbing.
Equipment Settings That Prevent Damage
If you enlist the services of a reputable pool technician, you generally don’t need to worry about brushing up on equipment settings to prevent pool damage. They can activate your pool and pool pump freeze protection protocols for you.
However, it doesn’t hurt to be mindful of the parts of your pool that freezing temperatures can damage, and the measures you can take to prevent it.
Freeze-guard set-points & continuous circulation
When temperatures plummet to 40°F, set your pool freeze guard system to activate so that your pumps will turn on before freezing occurs. The continuous circulation of the pumps keeps the water moving, stopping ice from forming in the pipes and pool equipment.
Variable-speed RPM recommendations in freezing temps
While running your swimming pool pump at a lower RPM is a great way to save on energy costs and reduce noise and wear, pool experts don’t recommend it during the colder months. If the water movement is too slow, the pump can freeze.
When temperatures start to drop, increase the RPM of your variable-speed pump to at least the mid-range of its capabilities.
Heater and salt-cell do’s & don’ts in cold water
When the water in your swimming pool is ice-cold or partially frozen, your instinct might be to fire up your heater. However, refrain from doing so as it can damage the heater or heat exchanger. Your swimming pool’s salt cells can operate at low temperatures, but make sure the water is still circulating and flowing over the cells.
If temperatures have plummeted below 40°F, turn off the heaters to reduce the risk of ice buildup around plumbing or the heating unit.
Insulate & Cover Exposed Lines
Just as you would insulate and cover exposed plumbing on your home during the coldest months of the year, you can do the same for your swimming pool. This form of maintenance is crucial for preventing damage.
Valves, pumps, filter heads, and heater manifolds
Wrap foam insulation or heat tape around all exposed pipes and valves. You should also use a weatherproof cover or insulated blanket to cover pump motors and filter heads. This is especially important if your pool’s plumbing runs near exterior walls or you have above-ground manifolds.
What to do if ice forms anyway
Sometimes, no matter how many measures you take, ice forms on your swimming pool components anyway. In that case, gently melt it away with warm water or a gentle heat source, such as a hair dryer. Never chip away at it or hit it.
Once the ice has thawed, inspect the area for leaks or cracks. You, or a trusted pool technician, should also check all pumps, heaters, and valves before resuming pool use.
Power Outage Plan
Winter conditions and power outages can sometimes go hand in hand. This can be problematic when you’re trying to stop your pool from freezing. That’s why having a plan for power outages is crucial.
How to open drains/air relief safely
As soon as the power goes out, it’s time to put your pool and pool pump freeze protection plan into action! Open all manual drains, automatic freeze-relief points, and air relief valves to create space for water expansion. Don’t overtighten drains or force closed valves, as this can result in damage or cracks.
After-outage restart checklist
When the power comes back on, don’t restart your pool until you’ve thoroughly inspected all filters, pumps, and heaters. Prime the pumps to avoid airlocks, and check your pool freeze guard activation. You can also slowly bring heaters and salt cells back into action.
After restarting your pool, monitor it for at least half an hour, listening for any unusual sounds and inspecting for leaks.
Post-Freeze Recovery
There’s more to getting your pool back in action after freezing temperatures than simply waiting for the water to warm up. That’s why most pool service companies recommend involving the experts. Your post-freeze recovery routine should involve the following actions:
Inspect for leaks/cracks, prime system, rebalance water
The last thing you want is to get your pool back in action, only to realize it has a catastrophic issue. That’s why performing a thorough inspection is such an essential post-freeze recovery step.
Inspect all valves, plumbing, and equipment for cracks and leaks. If water has been lost from equipment or lines, prime your pump system for the upcoming swimming season. Don’t forget to test and adjust your water’s pH, calcium hardness, and alkalinity, as cold water can alter the chemical balance.
Filter clean/backwash, shock, and brushing plan
If debris accumulated in your pool during the freeze, spend time backwashing or cleaning your pool filters. Brush the walls and floor to prevent algae buildup from the stagnant cold water, and shock the pool to restore sanitation.
When to Call Safari Pool Service
There can be a lot to do after the temperatures plummet, or your swimming pool succumbs to freezing temperatures. The good news is that you don’t need to deal with it by yourself.
Whether you’ve noticed a leak, a faulty piece of equipment, or simply need help balancing your chemicals, the team at Safari Pool Service is here to help. We’re proud to provide comprehensive pool cleaning, maintenance, remodeling, and repair services throughout DFW.
Contact us for a free, no-obligation quote. We’re looking forward to getting your swimming pool back in action post-winter.
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