Winter weather can be unpredictable, and when temperatures plummet, commercial pools are at risk of freezing. A frozen pool can lead to serious damage, including cracked pipes, malfunctioning pumps, and compromised pool structures. If your commercial pool has frozen or is showing signs of freezing, acting quickly can help prevent costly repairs and extended downtime.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the critical steps for handling a frozen commercial pool, ensuring your facility is ready to reopen smoothly once temperatures rise.

Signs That Your Commercial Pool Is Freezing

Before diving into emergency shutdown procedures, it's essential to recognize the warning signs of a freezing pool:

- Ice Formation on the Water Surface – If your pool isn’t heated or properly winterized, ice can develop, signaling dangerously low temperatures.

- Reduced or No Water Circulation – A drop in water flow or complete stoppage could indicate frozen pipes or blocked circulation systems.

- Frost on Equipment and Plumbing – Frost buildup on pool pumps, pipes, and filters suggests the water inside may be freezing.

- Unusual Noises from the Pump or Filtration System – If you hear loud humming, grinding, or irregular sounds, ice could be restricting water movement.

Immediate Actions to Take If Your Pool Starts to Freeze

If your commercial pool shows signs of freezing, take these steps immediately:

1. Keep the Pump Running (If Possible)

Moving water is less likely to freeze. If your pool pump is still operational, keep it running at a lower speed to maintain circulation. However, if you suspect ice has already formed in the pipes, turn it off to avoid damaging the motor.

2. Turn Off the Heater and Other Equipment

Running a heater when water is not circulating properly can cause severe damage. Shut off the heater, chemical feeders, and other auxiliary equipment to prevent system strain.

3. Inspect for Ice Buildup

Check around the pool deck, pump room, and plumbing lines for visible ice. If ice has formed inside pipes, avoid forcing water through them, as this could lead to cracks or bursts.

4. Slowly Warm Frozen Pipes

If you suspect your pool pipes are frozen:

- Use a space heater or heat lamp in the pump room to gradually raise the temperature.

- Wrap frozen pipes in warm (not boiling) towels to encourage thawing.

- Never use an open flame or boiling water, as sudden temperature changes can cause pipes to crack.

5. Drain Excess Water (If Necessary)

If pipes remain frozen and the weather forecast predicts prolonged freezing conditions, partially draining water from pipes and filters can relieve pressure and minimize damage.

6. Check Pool Chemistry

A frozen or partially frozen pool can cause chemical imbalances. Once the water starts moving again, test and adjust the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels to prevent algae growth and equipment corrosion.

Preventing Future Freezing Issues

Avoiding an emergency pool shutdown is always the best approach. Here are proactive steps to prevent freezing problems in the future:

- Invest in a Freeze Protection System – Many modern commercial pool automation systems include freeze sensors that automatically turn on pumps and heaters when temperatures drop.

- Use a Pool Cover – A high-quality winter pool cover helps insulate the water and prevent ice formation.

- Winterize Unused Pools – If your commercial pool is closed for the season, ensure all water is properly drained from pipes and equipment.

- Schedule Regular Inspections – Having a professional check your system before and during winter can identify potential freezing risks before they become costly problems.

Stay Prepared with Expert Help

Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on commercial pools, but taking immediate action and preparing in advance can save thousands of dollars in repairs. If you're concerned about your pool’s winter readiness, Orca Pacific can help. From freeze protection systems to emergency service and equipment upgrades, our team ensures your commercial pool stays in top condition year-round.

📞 Contact us today to discuss winter pool maintenance solutions.
Don’t let freezing weather shut down your pool—stay prepared and protected!