How To Protect Your Pool Equipment in Winter

When it comes to Oregon winters and winterizing your pool, winter pool protection and safety should be your top priorities. Not only do you want to protect your in-ground pool equipment from freezing temperatures, but doing so also guarantees that your pool remains a safe and accident-free environment throughout the year, preventing drowning or other water hazards. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide you with valuable tips on how to winterize your in-ground pool, emphasizing both equipment protection and safety.

Can I Leave My Pool Uncovered In Winter?

Many people often wonder if it’s essential to cover their pool during the winter. While it’s not strictly required, it’s highly recommended, particularly in Oregon’s climate. Here’s why leaving your pool uncovered in winter might not be the best idea:

1. Your Pool Will Freeze: When the temperatures reach below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, your pool water will freeze. The expansion of ice can cause significant damage to various pool equipment components such as pipes, pumps, valves, and filters. 
2. Unbalanced and Dirty Pool: Leaving your pool exposed during winter can result in it becoming unbalanced and dirty. Between the Pacific Northwest’s falling leaves, other debris, and exposure to sunlight, these factors will make it easier for your pool to retain stains and promote algae growth.
3. Risk of Drowning: An uncovered pool poses a serious risk of drowning, especially in winter when an inground pool might not be as easy to recognize. Covering your pool keeps children and pets from accidentally falling into the cold water.

How Do I Protect My Pool in Winter?

You should start thinking about winterizing your pool when temperatures are consistently around 65 degrees, to ensure proper time to prepare. You’ll need to deep clean your pool, treat it with the proper chemicals, lower the water level, remove any accessories, winterize your equipment, and then install and secure your winter cover. Check out our pool winterizing guide for a deeper dive into how to close your inground pool for the season.

What Should I Cover My Pool With In Winter?

Mesh or solid pool covers are great options for covering and safeguarding your pool in winter. You can find an excellent variety of winter pool equipment and cover options at our stores in Bend and Eugene. Additionally, you might also want to consider a pool cover pump to get rid of unwanted water on your pool cover from rain.

What is the difference between a safety pool cover and a winter pool cover?

Safety covers and winter covers may seem similar at first glance, but they serve distinct, yet complementary, purposes. Let’s break it down:

Safety Covers: These are sturdier and primarily designed to prevent accidental pool access, particularly by children and pets. Automatic safety covers can offer protection during winter when installed with extra slack to accommodate water expansion due to freezing.

Winter Covers: On the other hand, winter covers are explicitly designed to shield your pool during the winter months. However, relying solely on winter covers for safety year-round is not recommended. They are not intended for this purpose.

If you’re unsure about how to protect your pool and equipment from the winter elements or need assistance with winterization, pool equipment, or pool cover installation services in the Eugene and Bend areas, don’t hesitate to contact us at Emerald Pool & Patio. We’re not just here to help; we’re your partners in staying ahead of the winter curve and maximizing your winter preparation. As the leading pool providers in Oregon, our dedicated and highly experienced pros are committed to ensuring your pool stays in top shape and safe all year round. So, reach out to us today for the best pool parts and service in the Oregon area!