Why Winter Is the Worst Time to Ignore Your Pool’s Water Level
When Chris in Lincoln walked past his pool after a long week of rain, something looked off. The water line sat lower than he remembered, but it was winter, so he brushed it off. Two weeks later, the pump started pulling in air, making a loud slurping noise that echoed across the yard. What he didn’t realize was that his water level had slowly dropped just enough to cause a bigger problem.
Winter is one of the easiest times to lose track of your pool’s water level. With fewer swims and less time spent outside, small changes go unnoticed. But ignoring your pool’s water level during colder months can lead to equipment damage, air leaks, and a messy spring restart.
Why Water Levels Change in Winter
Most pool owners associate water loss with summer heat, but winter has its own set of causes. Windy days increase evaporation, even when it’s cold. Heavy rain can splash water out or overflow drains. Temperature changes also cause plumbing connections to tighten and loosen, which can allow small leaks to form.
Because the pool isn’t being used, these changes happen quietly.
What Happens When Water Gets Too Low
When the water level drops below the skimmer opening, the pump starts pulling in air instead of water. This creates bubbles in the system, weak circulation, and extra strain on the pump motor. Over time, that strain can lead to overheating, cracked lids, or seal failure.
Low water also affects chemical balance. Circulation becomes uneven, which allows debris and particles to settle instead of being filtered out.
Signs Your Water Level Needs Attention
You don’t need special tools to spot a problem. Watch for weak return flow, air bubbles coming from the jets, a pump basket that never fills completely, or a skimmer that looks half empty. Any of these signs mean it’s time to add water and take a closer look.
How Often to Check Water Levels in Winter
A quick glance once a week is usually enough. The water should sit about halfway up the skimmer opening. If it drops below that line, add water before running the pump again. After storms or windy days, it’s smart to check sooner.
How to Prevent Water Level Problems
Keep debris removed so water isn’t splashed out. Run the pump daily so changes are easier to notice. Check around the equipment pad for damp soil that could point to a slow leak. Small habits like these prevent bigger repairs later.
Avoiding Spring Equipment Surprises
Chris added water, cleared his skimmer, and his pump returned to normal. Because he caught the issue early, he avoided a repair that would have delayed his spring swim season.
American Dream Pool & Spa Service helps homeowners across Lincoln, Rocklin, Roseville, Granite Bay, Sheridan, Loomis, and Penryn keep pools healthy through every season. If your water level seems off or your pump sounds different this winter, our team can help keep everything running smoothly.
