Freezing temperatures can play havoc with pools
Crystal icicles hanging from trees are one of nature's spectacular winter displays. That splendor is lost when the icicles are a result of water spewing from burst pool plumbing and equipment.
Here are a number of precautions pool owners can take to avoid nature playing havoc with the pool system.
Freeze protection
Most high-tech pool systems are equipped with remote controls featuring a freeze protection mode. This feature automatically turns the pool equipment on when weather reaches freezing temperatures. Settings are usually preset at the factory; check your owner's manual details about your specific system.
Information also can be researched online.
If you do not have a remote control system, there are several after-market freeze protection devices that can be easily added to the equipment for around $200. Call a licensed pool service company for proper installation.
"For pools with a manual setup, our service technicians adjust timers to run the equipment from midnight to 8 a.m. to keep the water circulating during the hours in which the water is most likely to freeze," states Chris Rawski, owner of Admiral Pool Service. "We also instruct our pool owners to run the equipment 24/7 when temperatures stay below the 34 degree mark."
Insulating pipes
It is not necessary to wrap each and every pipe, but homeowners should be concerned with specific elements that can cause significant problems. Backflow devices are frequently referred to as PVB (pressure vacuum breaker) or anti-siphon valves.
"Backflow devices are the most vulnerable of all plumbing fixtures," notes Doug Bennett, Southern Nevada Water Authority conservation manager. "These devices are intended to protect your home's drinking water supply from accidental contamination where water is used outdoors. Your swimming pool auto-fill connection and your landscape irrigation system are equipped with backflow protection devices. It is important to protect these devices without eliminating their functionality."
Bennett warns homeowners to never obstruct the openings in the device; it may fail to achieve the critical job of protecting your water supply.
The most effective method to protect backflow protection devices and pipes is with foam insulation and pipe tape available at home-improvement stores.
Other areas of concern are solar systems, sump pumps, outdoor faucets, irrigations systems and any outdoor water themed feature such as fish ponds or fountains.
Additionally, The Southern Nevada Water Authority Web site has numerous tips on winter watering. Visit www.snwa.com for more information.
Joe Vassallo is the president of Paragon Pools, as well as a member of the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals, a certified building professional and a representative of the APSP National Builders Council, Region XI. Send questions or suggestions for column ideas regarding pools and spas to him at jvassallo@paragonpools.net or 251-0500.
