Preparing Your Pool for Florida's Winter Season: Leak Prevention Tips

Even though the sunshine state doesn’t get the harsh winters other states do, cooler temps and less pool usage can still expose issues you might not notice in the summer. Winter is actually one of the best times to catch small leaks early, protect your equipment, and keep your water healthy all season long.

If you want to avoid surprise repairs or a sky-high water bill, a little Florida pool maintenance winter prep goes a long way.

Why Winter Is Prime Time for Leak Prevention

Florida's subtle winter changes can affect your pool more than you’d think.

• Water levels naturally drop with lower humidity

 • Cooler water makes leaks easier to detect

 • Equipment isn’t working as hard, so pressure-related issues stand out

 • Any small crack that formed during summer heat can worsen in colder temps

Because you are using your pool less during the winter months, you’ll notice water loss sooner. That means winter becomes the perfect season to inspect your pool, fix hidden issues, and prevent bigger headaches in spring.

Common Winter Leak Issues in Florida Pools

Here are the spots that tend to act up when temperatures shift:

1. Structural cracks in the pool shell- Heat expansion during the summer can create small stress cracks that become more noticeable as water cools and contracts.

2. Damaged or worn-out return lines- Lines can leak underground without you realizing it. Lower winter pressure sometimes exposes these hidden problems.

3. Skimmer or skimmer throat leaks-As water levels fluctuate during winter, tiny gaps around the skimmer become more obvious.

4. Light niche leaks- Water seepage behind the light housing is extremely common and often goes unnoticed until winter.

How to Prevent Pool Leaks During Florida’s Winter Season

Here’s how to stay ahead of issues before they turn into costly repairs:

1. Monitor water loss closely. Mark the water level with tape and track changes over 24 hours. If you're losing more than a quarter-inch a day, that’s not evaporation.

2. Keep your pump running consistently. Even during winter, circulation protects your lines and equipment from unnecessary pressure shifts.

3. Inspect tiles and coping for cracks. Small cracks allow water to seep behind them, leading to structural issues over time.

4. Maintain proper chemical balance.  Unbalanced water eats away at surfaces, grout, and metal. Cooler temps don’t mean maintenance stops.

Aqua Res-Q’s Leak Detection Advantage

When it’s time to call in the pros, you want a team that doesn’t just guess. Aqua Res-Q uses advanced leak detection methods to pinpoint problems accurately the first time.

During a full inspection, our technicians:

 • Dive your pool and examine the shell, main drain, light niche, skimmer, and skimmer throat

 • Pressure test all return lines for accuracy

 • Use dye testing, pressure testing, and specialized sound equipment to find leaks others might miss

A thorough winter leak inspection not only protects your pool but also saves you money long-term.

Your Winter Pool Care Checklist

Save this so you can  follow it each season.

✅ Brush and vacuum the pool

✅ Run the pump daily to keep circulation steady

✅ Backwash or clean the filter

✅ Keep chemicals balanced, especially chlorine and pH

✅ Inspect tiles, grout, and coping for cracks

✅ Check skimmer baskets and pump baskets

✅ Look for air bubbles returning through jets

✅ Track water levels weekly

✅ Schedule a professional leak detection if anything looks off

Get Your Pool Winter-Ready with Aqua Res-Q!

If you’ve noticed water loss, air bubbles, cracks, or anything that feels “off,” don’t wait until spring to deal with it. Cooler months are the perfect time for a leak inspection.

Schedule your winter leak detection with Aqua Res-Q today and protect your pool before the busy season returns.