- Use the closest access point
If the heater is not isolated from the rest of the system, one must be extra cautious as it is not recommended to blow air through the air filter to reach the equipment. If the device cannot be isolated, service techs should come to the closest access point to the heater and use the blower or compressor from that point. Typically, most water will exit the system within a couple of minutes, but to be sure, one can run air through the system for five-to-seven minutes.
- Inspect for any signs of disrepair
It is good practice to thoroughly inspect for water infiltration into disconnects, breaker boxes, timers, junction boxes, and equipment connections. Service techs should also watch for any signs of rust, oxidation of terminals, or dried water trails if there is no obvious evidence of water. Again, this is a double-sided inspection and helps plan for spring startups as one can find and fix any such issues prior to when the heater starts operating in the summer. Also, if on-site maintenance staff or an electrical contractor need to be notified of any major repairs or replacements, this is the appropriate time to do so as it will provide ample time for servicing.
- Protect gas systems
Besides winterizing the water side of the system, it is also crucial to protect the gas device. Service techs must conduct a thorough inspection and check on the regulators, gas valves, and anything else pertaining to the equipment. One should also turn off the pilot flame, main gas valve, and gas supply to the heater. Just like the electrical devices, technicians must check local jurisdictions for licensing requirements when working on fuel gas systems. All applicable codes must be followed. Most jurisdictions will allow service techs to cap open pipes if the regulator is removed.
A venting device—either external or internal—is present on all gas regulators. Technicians should ensure the vents are free and clear of ice and snow. Some devices may have regulators in tricky spots and may need to be removed completely as a few drops of water inside a regulator will cause failure.
- Verify overall integrity of items
At this stage, it is a good idea to review with the customer or pool owner about what parts should be replaced next season. Pool pros should approach winterization as a ‘double-duty task,’ which can help them plan for the spring startup phase. One must inspect the parts that are removed, check for any wear and tear, as well as clogging from mineral buildups. The goal is to verify the overall integrity of the items one will be storing and reusing later.
Technicians should also perform a post-season inspection of the burners, gas system, and piping. These checks may seem tedious, but they are just as important as taking care of the equipment. This process also allows the customer to budget appropriately for the following season if replacement parts and labour are needed. It also provides ample time for the installer/technician to source parts and prepare a schedule for their client.
Winterizing the heating system for a pool not only ensures an extended life of the equipment, but also places pool pros in a position to make assessments and educated recommendations to their clients when the spring season approaches. Even with a large workload and multiple sites to visit before the cold weather sets in, these processes can set a technician apart from the rest of the pack. Further, communication and planning builds customers’ trust and ensures a lasting, positive relationship.
Tom Soukup is the principal and chief designer for Patriot Pool Heating, serving eastern Pennsylvania in the United States. With more than 15 years of experience in the hydronic heating industry, he brings his knowledge of high-efficiency boilers and designs to the pool industry. Soukup is also an active member of the Penn Jersey chapter of the Northeast Spa & Pool Association (NESPA). He can be reached via email at twsoukup@patriotpoolheating.com.
