Everyone knows that when water freezes, it expands. Unfortunately, this phenomenon can damage your pool. 

The cold temperatures in Alabama can damage your pool and pool equipment unless you winterize or close it during the off-season. Pumps, filters, heaters, and pipes are particularly vulnerable to freeze damage.

If you live in Pike Road, AL, or anywhere else in the Montgomery Metropolitan Area and you ignore your open pool during the winter months, you may wake up to cracked equipment, frozen water, and burst pipes. Sounds horrifying, right? Well, you can still protect your pool from freeze damage. Here are some ways how:

Winterize Your Pool 

The safest option is to close your pool until the next swim season, especially since the average low temperature in Montgomery is 35 ºF, which is close to the temperature at which a pool freezes (32 ºF).

To close your inground pool:

• Start by giving it a shock treatment and balancing the water.
• Lower the water temperature below the skimmer and clean the equipment.
• Add antifreeze and cover your pool with a winter tarp or a safety cover. 

Keep the Pump Running

If you do not want to go the winterizing route, you will have to keep your pool pumps running for 24 hours. This is the age-old method to prevent pools from freezing as it helps keep the water moving. 

When turned on, the pool pump will also help maintain a constant water temperature. On top of that, the pump will assist your pool’s heater, boosting its efficiency. 

Turn on the Pool Heater at Night

Another safer option is to switch on your pool heater for approximately 12 hours. We suggest turning it on at night as that is when the temperature further drops. 

The heater will help keep your pool’s water above freezing temperatures. To prevent heat loss, you can invest in a high-quality pool cover. This way, the heat will be retained, and the water will stay warm for longer. 

Use an Automatic Freeze Guard

Of course, no one can keep an eye on their pools for 24 hours. But if you invest in a freeze protector, you will not have to be on the lookout constantly. 

The freeze guards detect a drop in the temperature and automatically turn the pool pumps on. This keeps the pool water circulating, thereby preventing freeze damage. 

Do not Forget the Skimmer

Skimmers are the forgotten, yet most important, part of pool equipment. They assist the water circulation and trap the debris. 

As they are made of PVC, they are more susceptible to freeze damage. If the remaining water freezes inside them, it expands and cracks the walls of the skimmers. To avoid this, fill an empty water bottle ⅓ with antifreeze and place it inside the skimmer. The bottle will absorb the pressure created due to freezing and prevent the walls from bursting. 

If you live in Pike Road or anywhere in the River Region and have a frozen pool, Water and Pool Solutions can help. We offer a wide range of pool-related services to pool owners in Alabama, including pool leak detection and repairs, hot tub/jacuzzi maintenance and repair, sand changes, and more. Give us a call at (334) 264-2700 or contact us online to discuss your problem.