How a frozen pool can potentially lead to a water damage disaster requiring water removal services

3/13/2023 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO of Media highlights how frozen swimming pools can cause water leaks. The water damage caused by these leaks may require water removal services from a professional water damage cleanup and restoration company with the right equipment for the job.

SERVPRO® of Media has the equipment and expert workforce to provide water removal services, dehumidification, cleanup, and restoration in the event that pool pipes freeze and leak, causing flooding in the basement or crawl space.

Pool leaks can be an ongoing issue in many homes, especially in climates where the winter temperatures can drop well below freezing and stay there for a while. Pool leaks may stem from a variety of reasons, including:

• Inferior construction
• Improper installation
• Manufacturer’s defects
• Lack of maintenance
• Wear and tear over time
• Equipment failure
• A power surge or lightning strike
• Extreme cold

A swimming pool industry professional familiar with pool maintenance and pool winterizing in a cold climate provides the following advice: “The number one concern you should have for your pool after experiencing freezing weather conditions is that you might have a broken or cracked pipe somewhere in your pool system...possibly multiple cracks or breaks. When water freezes it expands and the force generated by expanding ice is enough to split pipes, crack concrete, break pumps, filters, or heaters...pretty much any and every part of your pool can be broken by the force of water expanding as it freezes.”

1. Leaks may be difficult to detect

The signs of a leak may come and go as conditions around the pool change. The best way to detect a leak is to carefully monitor changes in water levels after a cold snap. A pool service professional can also do a pressure test on the system for potential leaks.

2. Freezing weather may damage the pool pump

Cold temperatures can cause cracks in the pump and any plumbing connections to the pump. If the pump fails to prime, the cause may be a leak due to freezing. Unexplained water around the pump signals a potential water leak. If the pump is next to the foundation of the home, the leak could damage the foundation and flood the crawl space or basement. Cracks in the pump housing cannot be repaired. The only solution that prevents a water leak and potential water damage is a pump replacement.

3. A frozen pool filter may leak and cause water damage

The filter tank can develop cracks or rupture if the water inside the tank freezes. A large crack or split will allow large amounts of water to escape the tank. More minor hairline fractures may be more difficult to detect. The pressure gauge may also be damaged if the filter tank freezes.

4. Water leaks may occur if the pool heater freezes

In extremely cold conditions, a pool heater can freeze. The result is a damaged heater and potential water leaks. Operating the heater in frigid weather can also damage the unit. Highly acidic condensation is generated, which can corrode components in the unit, leading to premature failure. If the heater freezes, a cascade of negative consequences could develop. The pump could freeze, connections could break, and the pool could freeze over.

Rolling blackouts, water leaks, and water damage

Rolling blackouts during an extreme cold snap can lead to catastrophic pool failure. The entire system could freeze. The pump, filter, skimmer, pipes, and connections may need extensive repairs or complete replacement. A backup power source such as a whole-house generator may be the only tenable solution.

Is water damage from a pool leak covered by a homeowners insurance policy?

Pool leaks are a common cause of water damage. Insurance experts at AgileRates address this question, writing, “Homeowners insurance covers damage to your home. This means that if your leak has caused water damage to other parts of your home, your insurance provider might cover the damages, even if fixing your pool isn’t covered. If you think you have a leak, the sooner you can get it fixed, the less likely it is that there will be additional damage to other parts of your home.”

What to do if a pool leak causes water damage

A pool leak can cause water damage, structural damage, and mold infestation. When the water damage requires water removal services, contact SERVPRO of Media, PA. The team arrives on the scene in about an hour to begin the cleanup and restoration process. The well-trained and IICRC-certified team utilizes powerful pumps, wet-dry vacuums, heavy-duty dehumidifiers, and rapid-spin fans to deal with water and moisture issues. The process includes advanced cleaning and restoration techniques, sanitizing, disinfecting, and deodorizing with EPA-approved products. The rapid response and quick cleanup process get life back to normal as soon as possible.

To learn more about water damage cleanup services in Penn Wynne, Wynnewood, PA, and nearby areas call SERVPRO of Media at (610) 566-5720. The office can also be contacted by email at office@SERVPROmedia.com.