How to Winterize Your Pool in Texas: Complete Guide
Texas winters are unpredictable. One day it's 70°F, the next we're dealing with a hard freeze. Unlike northern states where pools are completely shut down for winter, Texas pool owners face a unique challenge: keeping pools partially operational while protecting them from occasional freezes.
Why Texas Pool Winterization Is Different
In states like Michigan or Minnesota, pool owners drain their pools and cover them for 5-6 months. In Texas, especially the DFW area, we typically experience:
- 2-5 hard freeze events per winter (below 32°F)
- Many days warm enough to swim (60°F+)
- Unpredictable weather swings within 24-48 hours
This means we don't fully winterize—we prepare for freezes while keeping the pool swimmable during warm spells.
Essential Winter Prep Steps
1. Check Your Freeze Protection
Most pool equipment includes a freeze protection feature that automatically turns on the pump when temperatures drop below 38°F. This keeps water moving through pipes to prevent freezing.
Critical: Test your freeze protection BEFORE the first freeze. Turn it on manually and verify the pump runs. A failed freeze protection system can mean $5,000+ in damaged equipment.
2. Maintain Proper Water Level
Keep your water level at the middle of your skimmer opening. Too low and your pump can run dry; too high and your skimmer won't work properly.
3. Balance Your Chemistry
Winter chemistry is just as important as summer. Maintain these levels:
- pH: 7.2 - 7.6
- Chlorine: 1-3 ppm
- Alkalinity: 80-120 ppm
- Calcium Hardness: 200-400 ppm
4. Clean and Inspect Equipment
Winter Equipment Checklist:
- Clean pump strainer basket
- Backwash filter (if applicable)
- Inspect pump lid O-ring for cracks
- Check all pipe connections for leaks
- Verify timer settings for winter hours
- Test all valves operate smoothly
What to Do During a Freeze
When temperatures drop below 32°F:
- Verify pump is running — Physically check that water is circulating
- Open a return jet — Creates water movement even if pump fails
- Remove hoses and attachments — Pool cleaners, fountains, etc.
- Consider running pump 24/7 — During extended freezes, don't rely solely on freeze protection
Common Winter Pool Mistakes
- Draining the pool — In Texas clay soil, an empty pool can actually pop out of the ground
- Ignoring chemistry — Algae loves winter neglect
- Assuming freeze protection works — Test it before you need it
- Forgetting about saltwater cells — Turn off salt generators below 60°F water temp
When to Call a Professional
Consider professional winter service if:
- Your freeze protection hasn't been tested
- You're unsure about your equipment's condition
- You've had freeze damage before
- You simply don't want to worry about it
Need Winter Pool Service?
Don't risk freeze damage. I provide winter maintenance service throughout Rhome, Trophy Club, Southlake, and surrounding areas. One less thing to worry about this winter.