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How to Safely Winterize Your Pool or Spa Filtration System
For owners of pools or spas, some routine water system winterization maintenance this fall could mean the difference between immediate enjoyment next spring and a big repair bill for burst or damaged pipes, skimmers or other equipment.
While there are several steps to winterizing a pool or spa, the filtration system will be the most susceptible to freezing temperatures and requires special attention.
Thoroughly flush and drain pipes and fixtures. Water freezes at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, so leave as little in your system as possible. Blow compressed air through the pipes, keeping the pressure less than 20 pounds per square inch to prevent system damage. A wet/dry vacuum on blower setting will work for smaller systems.
Fill the system with specially formulated DOWFROST™ RVR propylene glycol RV winterization fluid. Choosing the right product is important for the safety of people or pets that might come in contact with or swallow spilled or stored liquid. Choose a propylene glycol mixture. These products can provide freeze and burst protection as low as -50°F, and are generally safe for people and the environment. DOWFROST™ RVR Fluids comply with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) regulations for use in applications where contact with food or beverage products could occur.
Don't use automotive antifreeze. Never use automotive antifreeze for water system winterization. Most auto antifreeze is made from ethylene glycol, which is more toxic than propylene glycol and is harmful to humans and pets. And don't use windshield washer fluid, either, as it can freeze solid at subzero temperatures.
Helpful Hints
- Plug the skimmer to ensure that the system does not fill with rain water or melted snow.
- Make sure your system is capable of accommodating the normal expansion of the DOWFROST™ RVR solution which occurs during periods of winter storage. And ensure that you fill the system with the proper amount of fluid. Consulting a pool professional for assistance is never a bad idea.
- Don't dilute DOWFROST™ RVR fluid. DOWFROST™ RVR is purchased as a premixed solution. Adding water as you install it will raise the freezing point and reduce the protection for your water system.
- DOWFROST™ RVR Fluid, a product of The Dow Chemical Company, is safe for incidental contact with people or animals and can also prevent harmful pollution of ground and surface water in the event of a spill. This fluid is specially formulated for use in seasonal equipment, is readily biodegradable, and is practically non-toxic to aquatic life, which means it can help protect the environment.
These tips provide a general guide to successful winterization. But to ensure the most effective protection, be sure to follow any specific instructions provided by the equipment manufacturer.
Source: The Dow Chemical Company