Houston Pool Owner's
Emergency Weather Guide

Freezes, hurricanes, and extreme heat — Houston throws everything at your pool. Here's exactly how to protect your investment and when to call for help.

Emergency Pool Repair: (832) 900-1216

Freeze Protection Checklist

Houston freezes are rare but devastating for pool equipment. The 2021 winter storm caused millions in pool damage across Greater Houston. Follow these steps when temperatures drop below 35°F.

Run Your Pump Continuously

Critical

Moving water freezes at a lower temperature than still water. Set your pump to run 24/7 when temps drop below 35°F. If you have a variable speed pump, run it at full speed.

Open All Valves & Remove Plugs

Critical

Open valve handles to allow water to flow through all lines. Remove drain plugs from the pump, filter, heater, and chlorinator so water can drain if power is lost.

Protect Exposed Equipment

Wrap exposed pipes with foam insulation or towels. Cover the pump and filter with blankets or tarps. Never use heat tape near pool equipment without professional guidance.

If Power Goes Out

Critical

Open all valves to drain water from equipment. If you can't drain, leave a slow trickle running through an open hose bib. A cracked pump or filter is a $500–$2,000 repair.

After the Freeze

Do NOT restart your pump until temperatures are above freezing for several hours. Inspect for cracks in the pump housing, filter tank, heater, and plumbing. Check for leaks before running.

Free Download

Freeze Protection Quick Guide

One-page visual guide with everything you need before, during, and after a Houston freeze. Print it, tape it to your equipment cabinet, and never panic again.

No spam. Just pool tips from real technicians.

Hurricane & Storm Damage Protocol

Living on the Gulf Coast means hurricane season is a reality every year. Here's how to protect your pool before, during, and after a storm.

Before the Storm

Do NOT drain your pool — the water weight keeps the pool in the ground. Remove loose items, furniture, and pool toys. Turn off power to all pool equipment at the breaker.

Electrical Safety

Shut off the breaker to your pool equipment. If water has risen above the equipment pad, do NOT turn power back on until a licensed technician inspects it.

After the Storm — Water Level

If your pool overflowed, use the backwash or waste setting on your filter to lower the water level. If it drained significantly, add water before running the pump.

Debris Removal

Remove large debris by hand before running the pump. Branches, leaves, and roof material can clog your skimmer, impeller, and filter — causing expensive damage.

Chemical Rebalancing

Floodwater, rainwater, and debris will destroy your water chemistry. Super-chlorinate (shock) immediately, then bring a water sample to us for a full analysis.

Equipment Inspection

Check for cracks, flooding damage, and electrical issues. Salt cells, heaters, and automation systems are especially vulnerable to water damage. Call us for a post-storm inspection.

Houston Pool Care by Season

Houston's climate means your pool needs different care each season. Here's what to focus on throughout the year.

Summer (Jun–Sep)

Run pump 10–12 hours daily minimum during peak heat
Check chlorine levels 2x per week — Houston heat burns it fast
Clean skimmer baskets after every storm
Watch for algae blooms after heavy rain events

Fall (Oct–Nov)

Remove falling leaves before they clog the filter
Reduce pump run time as temps cool
Service your heater before you need it
Check salt cell — end of season is when they often fail

Winter (Dec–Feb)

Run pump 24/7 when forecast drops below 35°F
Insulate exposed pipes and equipment
Maintain proper water level — don't drain the pool
Have Admiral's emergency number saved: call immediately if pipes crack

Spring (Mar–May)

Open-up service: check equipment, clean filter, balance water
Inspect pump seals and o-rings after winter stress
Start increasing pump run time as temps rise
Schedule any deferred repairs before swim season hits

Industry Recognition

Featured in Pool Pro Magazine

Admiral's storm prep approach was featured in Pool Pro Magazine alongside industry experts from across the country. Our senior equipment specialist Eddie Garde was quoted on protecting Houston pools during freezes and hurricanes — the same hands-on experience behind the protocols on this page.

Read the Full Feature in Pool Pro Magazine →