Freeze Protection: What to do when the Big Freeze is coming to Austin

“When it drops below 32, your pump becomes your pool’s heart—keep it beating.”

In Central Texas, we don’t get freezes often, but when we do, they can be devastating to pool equipment pad. The 2021 winter storm taught us all a hard lesson about the vulnerability of our above-ground equipment pads. Unlike northern states, Austin pools aren’t typically “winterized” by draining the lines, so we rely on water movement to prevent freezing.

Expert Tips for Austin Freezes:

1. Run Pumps 24/7: The single most important thing you can do is keep your water moving. Moving water doesn’t freeze easily. If you have a variable speed pump, run it at a medium-high RPM (at least 2500 RPM) throughout the entire freeze event.
2. Break Surface Ice: If ice starts forming on the surface of your pool, break it up near the skimmers. Expanding ice can crack the plastic skimmer throats or damage your tile line.
3. The “Power Failure” Protocol: If the power goes out, you must act fast to save your equipment:
   • Turn off the breakers to all pool equipment.
   • Open all valves (diverter valves).
   • Pull the drain plugs on your pump, filter, and heater. This allows water to drain out so it doesn’t expand and crack the housings.
4. Cover the Pad?: While some people use blankets, be extremely careful. Never use flammable materials near gas heaters, and ensure you don’t block the air intake of your pump motor, or you’ll burn it out.

Austin Detail: Most Austin equipment pads are located above ground and are completely exposed to the elements. This makes them significantly more vulnerable than pools in colder climates where equipment might be indoors or underground.

If you’re unsure about your freeze protection settings or your equipment is making a strange humming noise, don’t wait. Text us or message us on Instagram. We’ve seen it all in the Hill Country, and we’re here to help you avoid a $5,000 repair bill.

Sent from my iPhone while checking equipment pads in Northwest Hills.