When the forecast predicts a "hard freeze," most pool owners think they’re safe as long as the pump is running. Every winter, we get the same frantic calls: "My pool pipes just burst." By the time you see water spraying from a cracked PVC pipe or a split pump housing, you’re looking at a repair bill that can easily climb into the thousands. Here is how we help our clients skip the stress and protect their equipment pads like pros.
The silent killer is the expanding ice. Water is a unique beast. When it freezes, it expands by nearly 10%. In a rigid plastic pipe, that force is like a slow-motion explosion. If your equipment is exposed to the wind and sub-freezing temps, the water inside can turn to ice in a matter of hours. To give your pool an extra layer of defense, our team installs specialized thermostat-controlled heat cables. This isn't just "wrapping a wire" around a pipet’s an engineered solution.The cables we install have built in thermostats. They stay off when it’s warm to save you money, but they kick in automatically the second the temperature hits 38°F.
We focus on the "vulnerable zones" the intake lines, the pump housing, and the valves. Ensuring that even if the water isn't moving, it isn't freezing. A heat cable is only as good as the insulation covering it. We wrap our cables in industrial grade foam or fiberglass sleeves to trap that heat where it belongs: against your pipes. We see a lot of homeowners try to install these cables themselves, but a small mistake can lead to big problems: Fire Hazards: If heat tape is overlapped, it can overheat and melt the pipe or start a fire. Sensor Failure: If the thermostat bulb isn't touching the pipe correctly, the cable won't turn on when you need it most. False Security: Using the wrong type of tape or insulation can actually trap moisture and cause the cable to fail prematurely.
To have peace of mind for the season our Freeze Protection Service is designed to take the guesswork out of winter. We handle the electrical testing, the precision wrapping, and the final weatherproofing. When the storm hits, you can stay inside by the fire knowing your pool equipment is wrapped in a "safety blanket." Don’t wait until the first freeze warning to call. Our schedule fills up fast when the temperature starts to dip. Would you like us to come out and perform a winterization audit on your equipment pad this week?
Coastal Poolscapes commitment to excellence extends beyond creating stunning pools; we also offer a range of comprehensive pool service and maintenance plans. Plus, when the storm clouds gather, trust us to safeguard your investment with our expert hurricane preparedness services. Reach out today for a free service quote, and let us keep your pool in perfect condition year-round! Call or email today. info@coastalpoolscapesnc.com or call at 910-399-5050
