Splash pads and aquatic play features provide family fun during the warmer months, but without proper winterization, these systems are at risk of serious damage when temperatures drop. Preparing your splash pad for winter is not just a seasonal task, it’s essential for protecting your investment, reducing future maintenance costs, and ensuring your play area is ready to reopen safely in the spring.
Whether you’re managing a municipal splash pad, a community park, a school, or a private facility, this guide will walk you through the winterization process with expert insight from Kraftsman, a trusted name in splash pad construction and maintenance throughout Texas and beyond.
Why Winterizing a Splash Pad Matters
Water left in splash pad systems can freeze and expand in cold temperatures, leading to cracked pipes, damaged pumps, and destroyed water features. Here’s what proper winterization helps prevent:
- Freeze damage to internal piping, pumps, and surface-mounted features
- Cracking and deterioration of splash pad surfaces due to freeze-thaw cycles
- Corrosion and electrical failure of control systems and automation units
- Unnecessary spring delays due to emergency repairs or inspections
- Voided warranties when manufacturer-recommended seasonal care is skipped
By winterizing your splash pad system before the first freeze, you extend the lifespan of your equipment and avoid costly surprises when reopening in the spring.
When Should You Winterize a Splash Pad?
Timing is crucial. Your splash pad should be fully winterized:
- Before the first hard freeze (typically late September through early November depending on your region)
- At the end of the operating season, once daytime temperatures consistently stay below 70°F and nighttime temps dip near freezing
- After scheduling with a professional team, to ensure you’re on the calendar ahead of peak demand
Steps to Properly Winterize Splash Pads and Aquatic Play Features
Every splash pad design is unique, but the following steps form the foundation of a successful winterization:
- Shut Off and Drain All Water Systems
- Power down the water supply
- Drain plumbing lines, pumps, and filtration systems
- Use compressed air to blow out residual water from the lines
- Drain and Protect Above-Ground Play Features
- Remove and store sensitive spray elements when applicable
- Cover exposed fixtures and sprayers to prevent moisture intrusion
- Clean and Inspect the Entire System
- Remove debris, sediment, or buildup from the system
- Perform visual and functional inspections of jets, valves, and fittings
- Check for early signs of wear or mechanical issues before they worsen
- Protect Electrical and Control Panels
- Turn off and disconnect programmable logic controllers (PLCs), timers, and chemical automation systems
- Ensure electrical boxes are sealed, weatherproofed, and shielded from moisture or pests
- Secure the Splash Pad Area
- Block off access to prevent vandalism or accidental use
- Add signage indicating the splash pad is closed for the season
- Install safety covers over nozzles or drainage points if applicable
- Document the Process
- Keep detailed records of all maintenance tasks performed
- Take photos of the site condition post-winterization
- Log any issues identified for spring repairs or upgrades
Common Winterization Mistakes to Avoid
- Failing to completely drain lines and valves, leading to burst pipes
- Neglecting surface cleaning, which causes staining or cracking over time
- Skipping the protection of electronic components
- Forgetting to inspect features for signs of damage or corrosion
- Delaying scheduling until after freezing temperatures have already occurred
Why Work with Kraftsman for Splash Pad Winterization
Kraftsman has been designing, installing, and maintaining splash pads and aquatic features across Texas for decades. Our winterization services are trusted by municipalities, schools, and recreation centers because we:
- Follow manufacturer-specific procedures to maintain equipment warranties
- Understand the unique plumbing and automation systems used in Vortex, Water Odyssey, and other top brands
- Offer full seasonal service, including spring startups, inspections, and water quality testing
- Help you plan ahead by identifying future maintenance needs during winter prep
Our team ensures nothing is overlooked, so you can reopen quickly and confidently when warm weather returns.
Preparing for Spring: The Benefits of Early Winterization
Winterizing your splash pad early means your site will be:
- Free from freeze-related damage
- Clean and inspection-ready for spring activation
- Compliant with local safety codes and ADA standards
- Ready to serve the community with minimal downtime
Plus, by addressing wear-and-tear issues in the fall, you can avoid costly rush repairs in the spring and spread your maintenance budget more effectively across seasons.
Protect Your Splash Pad Before the First Freeze
Taking the time to winterize your splash pad protects the systems you’ve invested in and ensures you can reopen without costly delays. Whether your site is large or small, new or aging, Kraftsman provides expert service tailored to your equipment and location. From water feature drainage to controller protection and spring startup planning, we handle the entire process with precision and care.
Get Winter-Ready with Kraftsman
Winter is coming. Don’t wait until the freeze hits to think about maintenance. Reach out to Kraftsman today to schedule your winterization service. We’ll help you safeguard your splash pad and ensure your space is ready for a successful, stress-free reopening in the spring.