While Boerne winters are mild compared to northern states, we do experience freezing temperatures that can seriously damage unprepared pools and equipment. A hard freeze can crack pipes, damage pumps, and ruin expensive equipment in a single night. Whether you close your pool completely or maintain it through winter, proper preparation is essential for every Hill Country pool owner.
In This Guide
Understanding Hill Country Winter Weather
Boerne winter weather is unpredictable. We might enjoy 70-degree days followed by overnight freezes. This variability makes pool care more challenging than in regions with consistent cold winters. Most Hill Country pool owners do not fully winterize like northern homeowners do, but certain precautions are essential. Watch weather forecasts carefully from November through March.
Equipment Protection: The Critical Steps
Your pool equipment is most vulnerable to freeze damage. The most important rule is to keep water moving during freezes. Running your pump prevents water from freezing in pipes and equipment. Set your timer to run continuously when temperatures approach freezing. If you lose power during a freeze, immediately drain water from the pump, filter, heater, and chlorinator. Consider installing a freeze protection device.
Water Chemistry for Winter
Proper water chemistry protects your pool through winter months. Before cold weather arrives, balance your water with pH 7.2-7.6, alkalinity 80-120 ppm, and calcium hardness 200-400 ppm. Shock your pool to eliminate bacteria and algae. If you maintain your pool through winter rather than closing completely, continue regular testing and treatment, just less frequently.
Full Pool Closing vs. Winter Maintenance
Most Boerne pool owners choose to maintain their pools through winter rather than fully closing, since we only experience brief cold periods. This approach keeps the pool ready for warm winter days and requires less work in spring. However, if you prefer to close completely, lower the water level below the skimmer, blow out all lines, plug return lines, and cover the pool securely.
Spring Opening After Winter
When consistently warm weather returns, restore your pool for swimming season. Remove any cover and clean it before storage. Reconnect any equipment you disconnected and check for freeze damage. Look for cracks, leaks, and damaged components. Fill the pool to proper levels, run the pump, and check for leaks throughout the system. Balance your water chemistry before swimming.
Last updated: January 15, 2024