Freezing temperatures can damage pond plumbing when trapped water freezes and expands. To prevent damage, drain the plumbing completely if the pond is shut down for winter, or maintain continuous water circulation if the pond remains running.
If you shut down your pond for winter
- Turn off and unplug the pond pump.
- Remove the pump and check valve. Removing the check valve allows water to drain from the plumbing and BioFalls® Filter.
- Drain all plumbing lines. Make sure no standing water remains in pipes, low spots, or fittings where freezing could cause damage.
- Drain external filters and equipment. Remove and store components that require protection from freezing according to their manufacturer's instructions.
- Store the pump properly. Clean the pump and store it in a frost-free location according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Important: Aquascape flexible PVC plumbing is designed to withstand normal freezing and thawing. However, draining the plumbing before winter remains the recommended practice.
If you keep your pond running during winter
- Keep the pump running continuously to maintain water circulation through the plumbing.
- Monitor waterfalls and streams for ice dams that could restrict or redirect water flow.
- Check pond water levels regularly. Ice formation and water loss can lower the water level and cause the pump to run dry.
- Check the skimmer and pump intake to ensure ice is not restricting water flow.
- Watch for power outages. If circulation stops during freezing conditions, the plumbing may freeze.
If ice prevents proper circulation or water from reaching the pump, shut down the system and remove the check valve to allow the plumbing and biological filter to drain.
Can underground pond plumbing freeze?
Yes. Underground plumbing can freeze if water remains trapped in the pipes during prolonged freezing temperatures.
Although buried plumbing benefits from the surrounding soil's insulation, burial alone does not guarantee protection against freezing.
For ponds shut down during winter, properly draining the plumbing is the most reliable way to reduce the risk of freeze damage.
Recommendation: In regions experiencing several months of freezing temperatures, shutting down the pond and draining the plumbing is generally the safest option.