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Q. Should I cover my pool filter and pool heater for the winter?
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Q. Should I cover my pool filter and pool heater for the winter?
A. A pool filter and pool heater should be handled differently. In our region, where temperatures routinely fall below freezing for an extended period of time, a pool filter must be winterized to avoid cracking due to the expansion of freezing water inside the filter. A cover will not help the filter from freezing, but will protect the exterior from oxidization. A simple canvas cover or tarp with tie-down straps can be used to cover the filter, but should be removed prior to the commissioning of your swimming pool or, at minimum, the startup of the filter. A properly winterized filter shouldn’t crack. If the filter is not too heavy and can be detached from its piping, it is always good to store it indoors. This will help ensure the filter does not freeze during severe low temperatures. It is always good to consult with your pool filter installation company or a professional for instructions on removing the filter to make sure it is done right.
Manufacturers do not advise their customers to cover their pool heaters. In fact, pool heater manufacturers like Hayward and Raypak do not even manufacture covers; they are only available after market, typically by companies that solely produce covers for a variety of outdoor equipment. The biggest issue with covering your pool heater is the possibility of moisture buildup, which leads to corrosion on the interior of the pool heater; whether it be the deterioration of a coil inside your heat pump, or the rusting of the burner compartment in your gas heater.
Another concern is the possibility of the pool heater being turned on accidentally while the cover is still on. Someone not familiar with your pool’s operation may turn on the heater with the cover on. Without proper air flow over the coils in a heat pump, or without the proper intake of fresh air and discharge of flue gases in a gas heater, the equipment will not operate properly and the potential of mechanical damage increases, whereby creating an expensive repair.
Typically pool heaters are meant to withstand outdoor conditions like extreme temperatures, rain, snow, etc. If you are concerned with maintaining its new appearance, simply wipe down the exterior of the pool heater routinely and keep bushes, and weeds away from the unit. This will keep the heater looking newer than if left alone.
Covering your pool heater will not keep mice, spiders or other insects from entering the cabinet during the winter. The only way to insure that your pool heater is free from debris, and other living matter, is to have your pool heater serviced regularly and have an experienced professional provide the winterization and startup of your equipment. Pool heaters are expensive and worth it, but keep in mind they need to be serviced to maintain proper operation.
stu@pooltherapist.com (718) 370-7000