You cannot effectively drain a pool pump while the water inside is frozen solid. The immediate action is to safely thaw the pump to prevent further damage, followed by a proper draining procedure to remove all water and prevent re-freezing.
Addressing a Frozen Pool Pump
If your pool pump has already frozen, the first priority is to carefully thaw it to prevent severe damage like cracked housing or broken plumbing.
Safely Thawing Your Pump
- Cut Power: Always ensure the power to the pump at the circuit breaker is completely off before touching any equipment.
- Gentle Heat Application: Apply heat gradually and evenly.
- Warm Towels: Wrap the pump and any frozen pipes with towels soaked in hot water.
- Hair Dryer/Heat Gun (Low Setting): Use a hair dryer or heat gun on a low setting, keeping it moving constantly to avoid overheating any single spot. Maintain a safe distance.
- Avoid Open Flames: Never use an open flame (like a blowtorch) as this is extremely dangerous and can damage plastic components.
- Monitor for Cracks: As the ice melts, carefully inspect the pump housing, seals, and connecting pipes for any visible cracks or leaks. Cracks will require component replacement.
Draining Your Pool Pump (Post-Thaw or for Winterization)
Once the pump has thawed and you've confirmed no critical damage, or if you are draining it proactively to prevent freezing, follow these steps to ensure all water is removed.
Locating and Removing Drain Plugs
To begin, go out to your pool equipment pad. You might have one, two, or even three pumps connected to your system. In the front of every pump, you'll find a drain plug. To drain the pump, you simply unscrew this plug. Many pumps have one main drain plug, but some larger or older models might have an additional drain plug, often located at the bottom of the volute (the wet end of the pump).
Ensuring Complete Drainage
- Open Plugs: Unscrew all drain plugs completely.
- Allow Gravity to Work: Let all water drain out naturally.
- Tilt the Pump (If Possible): If your pump is not hard-plumbed, you can carefully tilt it slightly to encourage any remaining water to flow out.
- Remove Residual Water: Use a wet/dry shop vacuum to thoroughly remove any lingering water from the pump housing and impeller area. This is crucial as even a small amount of water can freeze and cause damage.
- Store Plugs Safely: Keep the drain plugs off and store them in the pump's strainer basket to prevent loss until you're ready to reopen your pool.
Other Components to Drain
Remember that draining your pump is just one part of preventing freeze damage. You must also drain water from:
- Pool Filter: Open the air relief valve and the drain plug at the bottom of the filter.
- Heater: Open the drain plugs on both ends of the heater manifold.
- Chlorinator/Feeder: Drain and remove any chlorine tablets, then drain the unit.
- Pipes: Use a powerful shop vacuum or air compressor to blow all water out of the skimmer lines, return lines, and main drain lines.
Why Draining is Crucial
Water expands by about 9% when it freezes. This expansion can exert immense pressure, leading to costly and often irreparable damage to pool equipment. Draining all water from your pump, filter, heater, and plumbing is the most effective way to prevent this kind of freeze damage.
Tools for Draining & Thawing
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Pliers/Wrench | For stubborn drain plugs |
| Wet/Dry Shop Vac | To remove residual water |
| Hair Dryer/Heat Gun | Safe, gentle thawing of frozen components |
| Warm Towels | Alternative for gentle thawing |
| Screwdriver | For pump components, if needed |
Tips for Cold Weather Pool Care
- Monitor Forecasts: Pay close attention to local weather forecasts for freezing temperatures.
- Run Pump Continuously: If temperatures are expected to drop below freezing for a short period, running your pump continuously can help prevent water from freezing in the lines.
- Insulate Pipes: Wrap exposed pipes with insulation or heat tape as an added layer of protection.
- Professional Winterization: For comprehensive protection, especially in regions with prolonged freezing temperatures, consider professional pool winterization.
For specific instructions tailored to your equipment, always consult your pool pump's manufacturer's manual.
