FREEZING WEATHER - What you need to know.
It is FREEZING out here in Dallas - and just in time for Christmas!
While the cold weather can be enjoyable (as noted by our cold state friends), there are lots of potential risks that come with it, particularly for pool owners.
Dallas has been known for snap-freezes in the past few years, and unfortunately, we’ve witnessed first-hand just how much damage can be done to a pool that’s not prepared for it. Problems like:
Broken filters
Destroyed pumps
Broken tiles/stones
and many others can occur if a pool isn’t properly protected for the season.
During the normal year our visits focus on chemical readings, brushing, and basic operations. But right now, we’re pivoting to making sure our clients equipment, pumps, and freeze protectors are operating in tip-top shape, ready to take on any cold weather (don’t worry, we’re still keeping the pools clean).
“So what do I need to do?”
Good question. And that’s what we’re here for.
If you have a freeze protector, DO NOT manually turn off your pool equipment, either from the timer box, a switch, or the pump itself. It is imperative that your pump can automatically turn itself on and off - impeding this will undoubtedly nullify its freeze-protecting capabilities.
In the case of a power outage, you'll want to do a few things:
#1 Open up your pool filter stem by twisting it the direction it allows
#2 Unscrew the hand screw on any and all pumps you may have
#4 (If you have a heater) unscrew the hand screw at the bottom of your heater
#3 Open the pump pot lid, and put it upside down on the pump with the hand-screws inside of it
#5 Make sure your pool water level is full going into the freeze. This is necessary for your pool to run properly in the case that the freeze protector does turn on
If all else fails, your best option is to allow room for the water to expand as it freezes. This can save you potentially tens of thousands of dollars if done properly. In case any of this information is confusing, you can always give us a call - we’re here for you.
