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Why Year-Round Pools Need Extra Care
Even if your pool stays open year-round, freezing temperatures can cause serious damage. Water expands when it freezes, which can crack pipes, damage filters, and ruin pumps. And while running your pump can help prevent freezing, it’s not always enough during extreme cold snaps. The key is to be prepared and act quickly when temperatures drop.
Oklahoma’s unpredictable weather can throw a curveball at any time, especially during winter. One day it’s mild, and the next, temperatures plummet to -14°F with wind chills hitting -20°F. For pool owners who keep their pools open year-round, these sudden cold snaps can be a nightmare. Freezing water can crack pipes, damage pumps, and ruin equipment—sometimes in a matter of hours.
But don’t worry! With a few simple precautions, you can protect your pool and equipment during even the most unexpected freezes. Here’s your go-to guide for keeping your year-round pool safe during Oklahoma’s wild winter weather.
Simple Tips to Protect Your Pool During Cold Snaps
1. Keep the Pump Running
Continuous Circulation: Running your pump 24/7 during a freeze is the best way to prevent water from freezing in the pipes. Moving water is much less likely to freeze than stagnant water. Moving water loses less kinetic energy aka heat.
Adjust Speed: If you have a variable-speed pump, set it to a higher speed to ensure strong water flow.
2. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Wrap Pipes: Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to wrap exposed plumbing lines. Focus on areas above ground or near the equipment pad.
Cover Equipment: Use U-Haul moving blankets or insulated covers to wrap your pump, filter, and other equipment. Pro Tip: Avoid covering heater exhaust vents, as this could cause a fire hazard.
3. Add a Small Heater
Create a Tent: Use tarps or plastic sheeting to create a small tent-like structure over your equipment. Place a small space heater inside to provide extra warmth during extreme cold snaps. Pro Tip: Avoid placing and pointing the heater directly at your plumbing.
Monitor Heat: While your pump motor generates some heat, a small heater can help maintain a safe temperature during prolonged freezes.
4. Protect Your Filter
Cartridge Filters: Remove the pressure gauge (if applicable) and store it indoors. Cold temperatures can make plastic brittle, increasing the risk of cracks.
Sand and DE Filters: Backwash thoroughly before a freeze to ensure proper water flow.
5. Check the Skimmer
Remove Debris: Clear leaves and debris from the skimmer to ensure proper water flow.
6. Monitor Water Levels
Keep Water Flowing: Make sure your pool’s water level is high enough to keep the skimmer operational. If the water level drops too low, the pump could run dry and overheat.
7. Watch for Ice
Avoid Breaking Ice: If ice forms on the surface, avoid breaking it, as this can damage the pool liner or cause tiles to break off. Instead, let it melt naturally or use warm water to gently melt it.
Pro Tips for Year-Round Pool Owners
Invest in a Freeze Guard: Many modern pool systems come with a freeze guard that automatically turns on the pump when temperatures drop.
Keep an Eye on the Forecast: Oklahoma weather can change quickly. Stay ahead of cold snaps by monitoring local forecasts.
Be Gentle in the Cold: Plastic and metal parts become more brittle in freezing temperatures. Handle equipment carefully to avoid cracks or breaks.
Have a Backup Plan: If you’re going out of town during winter, ask a neighbor or pool professional to check on your pool during a cold snap.
Conclusion
Keeping your pool open year-round in Oklahoma is totally doable—even during those crazy cold snaps. By running your pump, insulating pipes, adding a small heater, and taking a few extra precautions, you can protect your pool from freezing damage and keep it in great shape all winter long.
And if you’re ever unsure or need help, don’t hesitate to call a professional (like me!) to ensure your pool is ready to handle whatever Oklahoma’s winter throws at it.
Stay warm, and here’s to a stress-free winter for your pool!
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