Pool Freeze Protection Guide for North Texas
After the 2021 Texas freeze, I saw more pool damage in one week than in my previous 5 years combined. Burst pipes, cracked pumps, destroyed filters—all preventable with proper preparation. Here's how to protect your pool from North Texas freezes.
Critical: Freeze Damage Is NOT Covered by Most Warranties
Equipment warranties typically exclude freeze damage. Prevention is your only protection.
How Pools Get Damaged During Freezes
Water expands when it freezes. In pool equipment, this expansion:
- Cracks pump housings and impellers
- Bursts PVC pipes and fittings
- Destroys filter tanks and internal components
- Damages heaters and salt cells
- Cracks pool tile at the waterline
Your Pool's Freeze Protection System
Most pool equipment includes a built-in freeze protection sensor. When air temperature drops to around 38°F, it automatically turns on the pump to keep water moving.
How to Test Your Freeze Protection
- Locate your freeze protection sensor (usually near the equipment)
- Find the "freeze protect" setting on your automation/timer
- Manually activate it to verify the pump turns on
- Check that water is actually circulating through all equipment
Important: Test your freeze protection BEFORE you need it. A failed sensor costs $50-100 to replace. A frozen pump costs $800-1,500.
What to Do BEFORE a Freeze
48 Hours Before Freeze:
- Test freeze protection system
- Remove and store pool cleaner
- Disconnect any attached hoses or fountains
- Check water level (middle of skimmer)
- Verify pump runs without issues
- Clear debris from equipment area
DURING a Freeze: The Critical Steps
If You Have Power:
- Run pump continuously — Don't rely solely on freeze protection during hard freezes
- Open one return jet slightly — Creates water movement even at the jet
- Point a return jet at the surface — Prevents surface freezing
- Check equipment periodically — Make sure pump is actually running
If Power Goes Out (EMERGENCY):
- Open filter drain plug (bottom of filter tank)
- Open pump drain plug (bottom of pump housing)
- Open heater drain (if applicable)
- Disconnect any unions at pump to allow remaining water to drain
- Remove pump lid to ensure no water is trapped
Equipment can freeze in as little as 2-4 hours without water flowing during a hard freeze.
After the Freeze
- Wait until temperatures are above 40°F — Don't rush to restart
- Close all drain plugs
- Fill pump with water before starting (prime the pump)
- Start pump and watch for leaks
- Check all pipe joints for cracks or weeping
- Inspect filter tank for cracks
- Check heater for any visible damage
Signs of Freeze Damage
- Water spraying from pipe joints
- Pump not priming or losing prime
- Cracks in pump housing or lid
- Filter pressure won't build or drops quickly
- Visible cracks in filter tank
- Heater won't fire or has error codes
Freeze Damage or Need Winter Service?
Whether you need freeze damage repair or want someone to handle winter pool care so you don't have to worry, I'm here to help. Serving Rhome, Trophy Club, Southlake, and surrounding areas.