Cold temperatures are uncommon in Central Florida, but when they occur—especially for extended periods—it’s important to take a few simple steps to help protect your pool equipment.

Below is our general freeze-protection guidance for residential pools. If you have questions about your specific system, we’re always happy to help.

Automatic Freeze Protection

Many pool systems are equipped with automatic freeze protection. When air temperatures drop, the system will override the normal schedule and run the pump automatically.

If your system has freeze protection, no action is required.

Pools Without Freeze Protection

If your system does not have automatic freeze protection, we recommend running the pump overnight during freezing temperatures. This helps prevent water from freezing in exposed plumbing and equipment.

Water Features

Water features such as spillways, waterfalls, deck jets, and fountains should be turned off during freezing temperatures whenever possible.

These features often rely on exposed plumbing, which is more susceptible to freezing and potential damage. Turning them off temporarily helps protect the system until temperatures rise.

If you’re unsure how to turn off a water feature or whether it’s tied into your normal circulation, please contact us for guidance.

Cold Water & Pool Surfaces

Cold water can affect how pool surfaces respond to routine maintenance.

When water temperatures drop, finishes such as plaster, quartz, pebble, tile, and grout may be more susceptible to wear. During these periods, unnecessary or aggressive brushing can increase the risk of surface damage.

What’s Most at Risk

• Above-ground equipment (pump, filter, heater, valves, and water-feature lines)

• Underground plumbing is typically protected by warmer ground temperatures

• Full drain-downs are usually only necessary for prolonged or hard freezes, which are uncommon in our area

You may loosely cover exposed equipment with towels or blankets if desired—just ensure coverings remain dry.

Our Approach During Cold Weather

We monitor weather conditions closely and may adjust service operations during freezing temperatures to protect your pool, your equipment, and the safety of our team.

If you have questions about freeze protection, your equipment setup, or upcoming service, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

E.M. & Sons Pool Service
Caring for your pool as if it were our own 💦💙

Pollen season is very common in Central Florida each spring. As trees release pollen, it can collect on the surface of the water and form a yellow or tan ring around the pool at the waterline.

While it can look concerning, pollen buildup is a normal seasonal occurrence and typically not a sign of a water chemistry issue.

Below is some general information to help homeowners understand what causes pollen rings and how they’re managed.

What Causes a Pollen Ring

During heavy pollen periods, fine particles settle on the water surface and are carried to the pool edge by normal circulation.

As the water level shifts slightly throughout the day, pollen can accumulate along the tile or pool surface and form a visible ring.

Wind, nearby trees, screened enclosures, and surrounding landscaping can all influence how much pollen ends up in the pool.

Is It Harmful to the Pool?

Pollen itself does not damage the pool or equipment.

If buildup remains for extended periods, it can contribute to waterline staining or create a film that traps oils and debris. Regular maintenance and filtration typically prevent this from becoming an issue.

What You May Notice

During peak pollen season you may see:

• A yellow or tan ring around the tile or waterline

• Fine yellow dust collecting in skimmer baskets

• Light pollen collecting on the pool surface, especially in the morning

These conditions can change quickly depending on wind, rain, and daily pollen levels.

How It’s Managed

During routine service we will:

• Skim pollen from the pool surface

• Brush the waterline

• Empty skimmer baskets

• Maintain proper water chemistry and circulation

Since pollen can fall continuously during this time of year, it may reappear between visits.

Things Homeowners Can Do Between Visits

If pollen accumulation becomes noticeable between services, a few simple steps can help:

• Lightly skim the surface with a leaf net

• Empty skimmer baskets if they fill with pollen

• Maintain normal pump run times to keep water circulating

Avoid using abrasive tools or aggressive scrubbing at the waterline, as this can damage some pool finishes.

A Seasonal Part of Pool Ownership

Pollen rings are a normal part of spring in Central Florida and typically improve once tree pollen levels decrease.

If you notice unusual staining or buildup that appears different from typical pollen, feel free to reach out and we’ll be happy to take a closer look.

E.M. & Sons Pool Service
Caring for your pool as if it were our own 💦💙