Should You Run Your Pool Pump in Winter?
When Kelly moved to Roseville, she figured pool season ended when the leaves started to fall. So she turned off her pool pump and let the water sit still for months. By March, her pool looked like a swampy science experiment—green water, clogged filters, and a repair bill that made her wish she’d kept the pump running.
Many Northern California homeowners wonder whether they should run their pool pump in winter. It’s cooler outside, nobody’s swimming, and energy bills matter. So what’s the right move?
The Short Answer
Yes, you should still run your pool pump in winter—but for fewer hours. Circulation keeps the water clean, balanced, and free from algae or freezing problems (in rare cold snaps).
Why Circulation Still Matters
Prevents Stagnant Water
When water stops moving, debris settles, and algae take over. Even in cold weather, stagnant water breeds problems.
Keeps Water Chemistry Balanced
Circulation helps chemicals distribute evenly. Without it, chlorine levels drop in spots and spike in others, creating cloudy water and corrosion.
Protects Your Equipment
Running the pump helps prevent pipes and fittings from freezing during overnight temperature drops in places like Lincoln and Granite Bay.
How Long to Run the Pump
During summer, most pools need 8–12 hours of circulation daily. In winter, you can reduce that to about 4–6 hours per day. Many pool owners split the run time into shorter cycles—morning and evening—to keep water fresh without wasting power.
Smart Settings for Winter
Set timers to run the pump during the coldest hours (early morning).
Backwash the filter once a month to keep water flowing smoothly.
Check skimmers for leaves after windy days.
Keep the water level consistent to avoid air entering the system.
What Happens If You Don’t Run It
If the pump sits idle too long, water turns cloudy, chlorine levels crash, and debris builds up in filters and pipes. You’ll likely face higher chemical costs and more cleaning come spring.
Kelly learned that lesson the hard way. It took a week of brushing, vacuuming, and shock treatments to get her pool back to blue.
Professional Winter Pool Care
If you’d rather skip the hassle, winter maintenance plans are available. A professional can keep your system healthy and ready for spring without overworking it. It’s a low-cost way to avoid costly repairs.
Keep Your Pool Healthy Year-Round
Even though the water’s too cold for swimming, your pool still needs care. Running your pump just a few hours a day can prevent algae, freezing, and costly spring cleanup.
American Dream Pool & Spa Service keeps pools clean and equipment running smoothly year-round across Northern California, including Lincoln, Rocklin, Roseville, Granite Bay, Sheridan, Loomis, and Penryn. Whether you need winter maintenance or full-service care, we’ll help your pool stay clear no matter the season.
