Don't leave the fate of your expensive pool equipment to chance this winter. Our climate-specific guide details exactly what to do—and when—to prevent costly freeze damage, whether you're facing a light frost or a polar vortex.
Why Winter Weather Poses a Major Threat to Your Pool System
When temperatures drop, the real danger comes from one simple fact: water expands by about 9% when it freezes. This expansion exerts enormous pressure on pool pipes, pumps, filters, and heater housings. Even a small amount of trapped water can crack a pump housing or split a filter tank wide open. Repairing or replacing these components can easily cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. A proactive approach before the first freeze is the best investment you can make to protect your pool system.
Should I Put a Tarp Over Pool Equipment?
Yes, you should cover pool equipment in the winter—but only with the right kind of cover. Use breathable, weather-resistant covers over your pump and filter to shield them from snow and debris. Never fully enclose your pool heater, as trapped moisture can cause corrosion. Covering helps, but the most critical protection step is to drain or circulate water.
Understanding the Freeze Risk: At What Temperature Does Damage Occur?
Pool equipment typically begins to freeze when the pump is off and the air temperature drops below 32°F (0°C). As long as water continues moving through the system, it's very unlikely to freeze. However, sustained temperatures below 20°F pose a serious threat, especially when combined with wind chill and when pipes are exposed. Larger plumbing and insulated equipment environments may delay freezing, but no setup is immune once temperatures stay low for prolonged periods.
Your Winter Protection Playbook: Climate-Specific Strategies
Every backyard climate is different. The right pool protection plan depends on how often and how deeply your area freezes. Use the following strategies to match your local risk level.
Strategy for Mild Climates (Occasional, Short-Lived Frosts)
If you live somewhere that only sees brief overnight frosts, an automated freeze protector is your best defense. This device automatically turns on the pool pump when temperatures approach freezing, keeping water flowing and preventing ice formation. For extra protection, loosely cover your equipment with a breathable tarp or blanket when a cold front is forecasted.
Strategy for Moderate Climates (Frequent Freezes, Temps in the 20s)
In climates with regular freezing nights, running the pump continuously can become costly—and risky if the power goes out. Instead, perform a partial winterization. Shut off the power and remove the drain plugs from your Vita Pool Supply pump, heater, and pool filter. This lets trapped water escape and prevents cracking. You can then loosely tarp the equipment area and use an incandescent bulb or heat tape as a gentle heat source to safeguard against deeper cold snaps.
Strategy for Harsh Climates (Prolonged Deep Freezes)
Where temperatures remain below freezing for days or weeks, complete winterization is the only safe choice. Balance your pool chemistry, lower the water level below the skimmer, and blow out all plumbing lines with a wet/dry vac or professional-grade blower. Add pool-grade antifreeze to the pipes, plug all returns, and install a sturdy winter cover. This process ensures your system stays dry and protected throughout the coldest part of the season.
How to Properly Cover Each Piece of Pool Equipment
Once you've chosen your winter strategy, proper covering adds another layer of defense against ice, wind, and debris.
Covering Your Pool Pump and Filter
Use a specialized equipment cover or a high-quality tarp to protect the external housing of your pump and a pool filter from Vita Pool Supply. Ensure the cover allows air to circulate. A non-breathable tarp can trap condensation, leading to corrosion and moisture buildup. A breathable, weather-resistant layer extends the lifespan of your pool's most vital components.
Protecting Your Pool Heater
Never fully wrap your pool heater in plastic or a tarp—it needs airflow to prevent moisture from being trapped and causing rust on internal parts. Instead, place a flat board or piece of plywood across the top to block rain and snow from entering. This method keeps precipitation out while allowing natural ventilation to dry internal surfaces.
Emergency Plan: What to Do If the Power Fails During a Freeze
When the power goes out during a freeze, every minute counts. Follow this quick-response checklist:
- Turn off all pool equipment breakers to prevent system damage when power returns.
- Open all drain plugs on the pump, filter, and heater to release trapped water.
- Use a shop vac to blow out remaining water from pipes if possible.
- Cover the equipment with heavy blankets or tarps for temporary insulation against the cold.
Once power is restored, inspect for damage before restarting your system.
Top 4 Winterization Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Relying only on a freeze protector without a power outage backup.
- Forgetting to drain all components, including chlorinators and booster pumps.
- Wrapping the heater too tightly can lead to condensation and corrosion.
- Leaving water in underground pipes in harsh climates increases the risk of bursting.
Avoiding these missteps will drastically reduce the risk of costly spring repairs.
Winter doesn't need to be the enemy of your pool system. Assess your local climate, choose the best winterization method, and prepare for power outages with an emergency plan. A few hours of preparation this fall can save you thousands in repair bills and ensure your pool is ready to splash back into action when warm weather returns.