Wondering on how to keep pool from freezing during winter? It is not a unique problem to you; other pool owners are grappling with the same problem. Unfortunately, we can’t stop the tide of season change; but we can find a solution to the freezing problem.
How to Keep Pool from Freezing in Winter
The consequences that come with a frozen pool are usually a nightmare for pool owners. If you have challenges preventing your pool from freezing, you are in the right place. Take a ride with me into finding out how to keep your pool from turning into a ‘rock’ during the cold season.
When is it Best to Winterize Your Pool?
This is the most effective tip to prevent the damage caused by freezing. Keeping your pool warm will prevent freezing destruction. If you can keep your pool above 32 degrees and at the proper pH, you have nothing to worry about.
This option can be costly. If you cannot keep up with this option, the best way out would be closing your pool.
Factors to consider before deciding to winterize your pool or not:
- Local Average Winter Temperatures
In some areas, such as the south and west coast, they do not experience harsh winter temperatures. The temperatures rarely go below 40 degrees in these regions. Winter temperatures in the northeast can be extreme; as low as 0 degrees for some days.
- The Cost of Keeping the Heater On
Your heater will have to stay on for longer hours just to keep your pool warm. Electrical and chemical bills can increase rapidly. Consider whether keeping the heater is sustainable.
You can opt for a pool heat pump. It can help you keep heating costs on the low side because it is energy-efficient.
- The Cost of Keeping the Filter Pump Running
The filter pump keeps the circulation of water longer. The circulation ensures that the pool remains constantly warm.
A variable speed pump on low speed is both efficient and affordable. You should invest in one before winter.
- Keep the Heat in With a Solar Pool Cover
You can use a solar cover to retain heat in your swimming pool. Covering your pool works by warming it faster and boosting its ability to retain heat. Therefore, covering prevents unnecessary heat loss.
- Keep the Heater Running for 12 Hours Each Day
It ensures that the temperatures of your pool stay above the freezing point. This, however, depends on where you are. The average time your heater needs to be on may be slightly above or below 12 hours.
It is wiser to run your heater during the night. This makes it cost-effective because the temperatures typically take a dive during the night.
- Automatically Circulate the Water Using a Freeze Protector
A freeze protector automates water circulation in your pool. This option is effective because you may forget to run your filter pump or pool heater. If you are not home to carry out the tasks, a freeze protector will serve you best. It switches on your pool heater and the pump when the temperatures get closer to the freezing point.
- Running Your Filter Pump for 24 Hours
This prevents freezing of the pipes. It also improves the circulation of water. Therefore, your pool can maintain constant temperatures and can remain clean as it is sitting.
How to Protect Your Pool Pump from Freezing
Never give your pool pump the chance to get near the freezing point. As it runs, it also keeps itself warm.
For one reason or another, the pool ump may freeze. In this case, the best solution would be to remove the drain plug so as to eject pressure from the system.
How do I protect the pool skimmer?
The pool skimmer is often forgotten during winter. It is made of PVC, therefore, can crack easily if left to freeze.
Use a skimmer bottle to protect it. Fill an empty bottle to 1/3 antifreeze and put the cap back on. Place the bottle into the skimmer. It works by relieving the pressure build-up in the skimmer.
Always keep your water level around mid-skimmer. Keep it below the skimmer only if you want to winterize it. Too high or low levels can cause difficulty in circulation and warming up. You sure don’t want that.
Wrap Up
Knowing how to keep pool from freezing in winter is usually a constant headache for a lot of pool owners. However, with these steps, your nicely designed pool and pool equipment will be safe even in the harshest winter temperatures. Although, if your pool has been sitting for a while, be sure to clean it thoroughly to prevent swimming in a green pool.