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    Pool Equipment Winterization

    How to Winterize Pool Equipment to Prevent Freezing

    By PG Pool & Spa

    Freezing temperatures can cause severe and expensive damage to pool pumps, filters, and heaters. This guide explains exactly how we winterize pool equipment during cold weather to prevent freeze damage.

    Tip: Watch the video first, then follow the step-by-step checklist.

    How We Winterize Pool Equipment

    Here are the tools and steps we follow to properly winterize pool equipment:

    1. Turn off pool controls and power
    2. Drain the main circulation pump
    3. Drain waterfall or feature pumps
    4. Drain the pool filter
    5. Drain the pool heater
    6. Perform final drain plug checks
    7. Protect the pool autofill system

    Tools You May Need

    • Crescent wrench
    • Channel locks
    • Flathead screwdriver
    PG Tip: Most drain plugs can be loosened with a tool and finished by hand. Avoid overtightening when reinstalling later.

    Shut Off Equipment

    Disable Run Schedule

    1. Locate your pool control panel.
    2. If you have an automated system, open the panel and put the system into Service Mode.
    3. If you have a mechanical timer, remove the ON and OFF trippers.
    4. Close the control panel.

    Shut Off Power

    • Locate breakers related to pool equipment.
    • Turn OFF all breakers feeding pumps, heaters, and accessories.
    • Close the electrical panel securely.
    Safety Note: Always shut off power before draining equipment.

    Drain the Main Circulation Pump

    1. Locate the main circulation pump.
    2. Remove the pump basket lid and set it in a safe place.
    3. Locate the drain plugs (usually near the bottom or front of the pump).
    4. Loosen with a tool, then remove by hand.
    5. Inspect each plug to ensure the O-ring is intact.
    6. Place all removed drain plugs inside the pump basket.
    Reminder: Most pumps have two drain plugs — both must be removed.

    Drain Waterfall or Feature Pumps (If Applicable)

    If your pool has a waterfall, spa booster, or other feature pumps, repeat the same process:

    • Remove all drain plugs
    • Inspect O-rings
    • Place plugs into the main pump basket

    Drain the Pool Filter

    1. Locate the filter drain plug (typically at the bottom).
    2. Loosen carefully with a tool.
    3. Finish removing by hand and allow the filter to drain completely.
    4. Inspect the O-ring and place the plug into the pump basket.
    Note: Avoid cross-threading or damaging the drain plug.

    Drain the Pool Heater

    1. Locate the heater drain plug between or below the inlet and outlet pipes.
    2. Loosen with a tool, then remove by hand.
    3. Allow all water to drain.
    4. Inspect the O-ring and place the plug into the pump basket.
    Why it matters: Heaters are among the most expensive components to replace if freeze damage occurs.

    Double-Check All Drain Plugs

    Before leaving the equipment pad, confirm:

    • All pump drain plugs are removed (main pump + any auxiliary pumps)
    • Filter is fully drained
    • Heater is fully drained
    • All plugs are stored together in the pump basket
    Pro Tip: Keeping the plugs in the pump basket makes restart fast once temperatures rise.

    Winterize the Pool Autofill (If Equipped)

    Shut Off Water Supply

    • Locate the autofill shutoff valve near the equipment.
    • Turn the handle to the right to close.

    Drain the Autofill Line

    1. Locate the autofill canister in the pool deck (under a lid).
    2. Remove the lid.
    3. Press the float valve down to let water drain back into the pool.
    4. Hold for 30–60 seconds.
    5. Replace the lid securely.

    Why This Matters

    Water expands when it freezes. Even a small amount of trapped water can crack pump housings, filters, or heater components — leading to expensive repairs. Proper winterization removes water from every vulnerable component.

    Need Help Winterizing Your Pool?

    If you’re located in Houston or the surrounding area and want a professional to winterize your pool equipment (or verify it was done correctly), we’re here to help.

    Call PG Pool and SpaCall Now 713-897-8952