We are expecting the first freeze of the season this weekend—and pool owners should be prepared. The average first freeze occurring in the DFW area on November 22nd, so it appears that it will happen just about on schedule this year. With many weather forecasters predicting a colder and wetter winter than we usually have, it is almost certain that freezing temperatures will be here in a matter of weeks, if not days.
As the freezing weather approaches, it is important that you know how to prevent freeze damage if your pool has not already been prepared for the freeze. Following are our recommendations on how to prevent freeze damage.
- Continu the regular weekly routine of testing the water, adding chemicals as necessary, cleaning out the baskets, etc. Pay particular attention to the chlorine test, as you will not have to add as much chlorine during the winter as you have this summer (with cooler temperatures, less sanitizer is required).
- Backwash the filter as necessary—it is very important to have good water flow and a clean filter, especially going into a freeze situation.
- Keep the water level at the normal level—typically the middle of the tile.
- Be sure that your pump(s) is/are running when the temperature is freezing. This will help prevent freeze damage to the equipment and plumbing which is an expensive repair. Many pools are equipped with a freeze sensor, which should turn the main pump on, which circulates water through the equipment, including the automatic cleaner booster pump. It is a good idea to make sure that your pump is on during the first freeze just to be sure that your freeze sensor is operating properly. Booster pumps for waterfalls, etc. are usually not freeze sensored, and either must be drained or manually turned on during freezing.
Again, the pump should come on when the air temperature reaches 38 degrees Fahrenheit and below. Please check to be sure that this is happening when these temperatures are occurring.
If temperatures reach the single digits, please contact us for more information on avoiding freeze damage. Should you have any questions concerning winter pool care, please feel free to give us a call.
Matt has been around the pool business since he was born. When he graduated college in 1984, he joined the family business working for Gohlke Pool Supply. The following year Matt and his father formed a partnership, Gohlke Custom Pools, and started offering pool construction.
