Properly winterizing your commercial chemical controllers is essential to protect sensitive components, avoid costly repairs, and ensure your system is ready to run smoothly when pool season begins again. Cold temperatures, ice, and moisture can all damage controllers, probes, and pumps if they aren’t prepared for storage. Follow this step-by-step guide to correctly winterize your equipment.
1. Gather Necessary Tools and Materials
Before starting, make sure you have everything you’ll need on hand. This includes wet caps for probes, winter plugs in various sizes, plug caps for injection and flow cell fittings, basic tools for removing probes and fittings, storage containers with lids, and labels with markers.
2. Power Down and Disconnect
Turn off the chemical controller and disconnect it from the power source. Shut off the water supply to the system to prevent accidental flow into the controller.
3. Remove and Protect Probes
Carefully remove each probe from the system. Place wet caps on the probes to keep them moist, which prevents permanent damage. Store the probes in a warm, dry location where they will not be exposed to freezing temperatures.
4. Remove Injection and Flow Cell Fittings
Detach the injection fittings and flow cell fittings from the system. Plug all openings with the appropriate winter plugs to prevent residual water from freezing and causing cracks.
5. Detach and Store the Controller, Pumps, and Flow Cell
Carefully remove the chemical controller, pumps, and flow cell from their mounting board. Store these components in a warm, dry place away from freezing temperatures.
6. Remove Pinch Tubes from Pumps
Take the pinch tubes out of the pumps to avoid deformation or damage during long-term storage.
7. Secure and Label Components
Place all removed components, including probes, fittings, and pumps, in storage containers. Clearly label everything so that spring setup is faster and easier.
8. Inspect Before Storage
Check all removed parts for wear, cracks, or damage. Replace any parts as needed so you are prepared for the new season.
9. Check for Manufacturer-Specific Steps
Some commercial chemical controllers may require additional procedures. Always review your controller’s owner’s manual for specific winterizing recommendations.
10. Winter Plug Resources
Winter plugs are a simple but effective way to secure and protect your system during the off-season. Multiple sizes are available to match your setup. You can find them here: Winter Plugs at Poolweb.
Protect Your Investment
Winterizing your commercial chemical controllers may take some time up front, but it will save you from headaches, costly repairs, and downtime when pool season returns. By carefully removing, storing, and protecting each component, you’ll extend the lifespan of your equipment and ensure accurate water chemistry management year after year. And remember, always refer to your controller’s owner’s manual for system-specific winterizing instructions.