How to Safely Winterize Your Water Play System
As autumn arrives, water play operators worldwide face a critical seasonal transition. While Canadian and American municipalities prepare for harsh winter conditions, European aquatic centers adjust their procedures to suit local climate variations. In South America, Asia, Oceania, and Africa, the challenges differ depending on whether the region is temperate or tropical. Proper winterization not only extends the lifespan of your Splashpad® equipment but also ensures a trouble free start to the next season.
Step 1 – Fully Drain the System
Complete drainage is the first and most essential step in winterizing. Any water left in the infrastructure can freeze and cause serious damage. This principle applies everywhere, from Calgary to Stockholm to Melbourne.
Start by fully draining the water management system, including storage tanks, sand filters, pumps and all water lines both inside and outside the equipment room. Keep all winterization valving open throughout the winter to allow any water that may enter the system to drain out. Empty all chemical tanks and properly dispose of leftover chemicals. This step helps prevent corrosion due to chemical vapors and reduces the likelihood of calcification of chlorine as it sits in a chemical line.
*Note : While chlorine will degrade and not be useful by the following season, Muriatic acid can be stored and used again the following year.
Step 2 – Remove and Protect the Nozzles
Winterizing typically involves removing all upward facing nozzles and sealing them tightly with Vortex provided winter caps. This procedure is especially critical in cold climates to prevent any water from entering the plumbing system. Carefully remove each nozzle, clean it, and store it until next season.
Step 3 – Purge the Pipes
Pipe purging is the most technical step of the winterizing process. A small air compressor is all you need for this short but vital task. Like with irrigation systems, purging blows out any remaining moisture that could freeze inside the pipes.
Work methodically, circuit by circuit, applying only enough air pressure to force out all residual water. Pay close attention to low points in the system where water is most likely to collect.
Step 4 – Winterize Lines Without Gravity Drainage
Pipe draining is the most technical step of the winterizing process. Like with irrigation systems, it’s essential to ensure all moisture is cleared to prevent freezing.
Work methodically, circuit by circuit, applying only enough air pressure to force out all residual water. Pay close attention to low points in the system where water is most likely to collect.
For lines that cannot be drained fully with a gravity drain, pour about 1 gallon (3.78 liters) of RV antifreeze into each line. This technique, commonly used in North America, ensures that pipes remain free of freezing. Adding antifreeze is only required when gravity drainage is not possible due to pipe sloping.
Step 5 – Power Down Electronic Equipment
Shut off the automatic fill system in the storage tank and power down all electronic components. This protects sensitive electronics from voltage fluctuations during the off season.
Step 6 – Special Tank Management
If your system includes a storage tank, do not empty it below the halfway point. Soil surrounding the tank exerts pressure, and keeping the tank at least half full helps prevent warping or the tank “floating” due to ground pressure.
Step 7 – Prepare for next season
During the winterization process document any parts that may need to be replaced or may be nearing the end of their service life. Contact our support team during the off season to order parts to prepare for your next season.
Vortex Customer Service : support@vortex-intl.com
Regional Winterization Specifics
Northern municipalities (Canada, northern U.S., Scandinavia) require comprehensive protocols including antifreeze and thermal insulation. Temperate regions (Central Europe, Japan) can simplify some steps but must remain cautious with critical components.
Subtropical areas (Southern U.S., Australia) focus more on preventive maintenance and UV protection, while tropical regions prioritize corrosion prevention and moisture management.
Preparing for Spring Reopening
Proper winterization makes spring reopening significantly easier. To start-up the system, simply reverse the winterizing process. Use the reopening phase to inspect thoroughly, replace worn parts, flush the pipes, and let the system run before welcoming children back for play.