Utah winters bring the kind of long, hard freezes that pool plumbing is not built to sit through full of water. Whether you close your pool for the season or keep a spa running, a little preparation in the fall helps protect your pipes, pump and filter until spring.
Why Freezing Water Is the Real Risk
Utah State University Extension explains that when unprotected waterlines sit in freezing temperatures for several hours, the water freezes and expands, which can crack or split pipes. The damage often shows up later, when the line thaws and starts to leak. Pool plumbing, skimmers and equipment that hold water are exposed to the same risk.
Balance, Clean and Lower the Water
Hayward’s pool-closing guide starts with balanced water chemistry and a clean pool, then lowering the water level. For mesh covers, Hayward suggests lowering the water 12 to 18 inches below the skimmer, and 3 to 6 inches below the tile for solid, floating covers. Some covers don’t require lowering the water, so check your cover manufacturer’s manual first.
Winterize the Plumbing
For in-ground pools, Hayward recommends blowing out the lines from the skimmer, through the equipment and back to the pool, then plugging the lines at the pool with expansion plugs. If the lines aren’t blown out, Hayward says to add swimming pool antifreeze following the package directions.
Use the right equipment for the job. Hayward’s XE Series pump manual warns against purging the system with compressed air, which can cause components to explode, and calls for a low-pressure (below 5 PSI), high-volume blower instead. The same manual says to use only propylene glycol as antifreeze in a pool or spa system, and that letting the pump freeze with water in it voids the warranty.
A Simple Fall Checklist
- Balance and clean the water before closing
- Lower the water to the level your cover requires
- Drain the pump, filter and other equipment that holds water, following your equipment manuals
- Blow out and plug the lines, or use pool antifreeze as directed
- Insulate exposed plumbing at the equipment pad; USU Extension notes insulation must fully cover pipes and fittings to work
- Turn off timers and breakers if the system will sit unused, then secure the cover
Keeping a Spa or Pool Running?
Some Utah homeowners keep a spa or heated pool going through winter. If you have automation, ask whether freeze protection is set up. Hayward explains that its controllers can turn outputs on automatically when freezing temperatures are detected. Keep in mind that freeze protection depends on power and working equipment, so it’s worth checking during cold snaps.
Use the Off-Season to Plan
Winter is a good time to note any equipment that struggled this season, or to start planning a new pool or remodel so it’s ready for next summer. Clarity Custom Pools serves homeowners from Spanish Fork to North Ogden, and from Park City and Heber City to Tooele, Eagle Mountain and Saratoga Springs.
If you’d like to talk it through, call Clarity Custom Pools at 801-839-4456 or book a consultation. We’ll tell you honestly whether we’re the right builder for your project. Utah DOPL #14308264-5501.