01/21/2026
Stay calm! Winter pool emergencies usually involve freezing temperatures or power outages that threaten to crack your equipment. Here is your quick-action guide to saving your pool:
🚨 During a Power Outage (The "Drain It Now" Plan)
Kill the Power: Turn off the main breaker to the pool equipment so it doesn't try to restart unexpectedly.
Remove All Drain Plugs: Quickly remove the drain plugs from your pump, filter, and heater.
Open Air Valves: Open the air relief valve on top of the filter to let water drain out faster.
Open All Valves: Ensure all plumbing valves are in the open position to allow water to expand without cracking pipes.
Remove Lids: Take off the pump pot lid to give expanding ice extra room.
Store Plugs Safely: Put all removed plugs in a Ziploc bag and keep them inside or in the pump basket so you don't lose them.
❄️ During Extreme Cold (Power is ON)
Run Pumps Continuously: Keep your main pump running 24/7. Moving water is much harder to freeze.
Check Water Level: Ensure water is at the midpoint of the skimmer. If it’s too low, the pump will suck air, lose prime, and the equipment will freeze.
Open All Lines: Turn on all water features (fountains, waterfalls) and ensure all return valves are at least partially open so no water is "trapped" in a pipe.
Skimmer Protection: If you aren't running the pump, place a Gizzmo or a half-filled plastic bottle with pool antifreeze in the skimmer to absorb ice pressure.
🛠️ If Your Equipment Is Already Frozen
DO NOT turn on the pump; you will burn out the motor.
Thaw Slowly: Drape heavy blankets or a tarp over the equipment to create a "tent." Place a small, portable electric heater or hair dryer inside to slowly melt the ice.
Never Break Ice: Do not hit the ice on the pool surface or inside the skimmer, as this can send shockwaves that crack your tiles or liner.
Be safe and we will be here if you need us!
