Winterizing Poolside Fire Features: How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Poolside fire features add warmth and visual appeal to outdoor spaces, but combination fire-and-water bowls need attention when temperatures drop. Water left inside exposed plumbing, pumps, or supply lines can freeze, expand, and damage connected components.

For Las Vegas homeowners, winter preparation is generally more relevant before an occasional freezing night or an extended shutdown than as a routine seasonal task. Proper water line drainage and equipment checks can help reduce the risk of freeze damage and keep your poolside setup ready for warmer weather.

Why Do Poolside Fire Features Need Winter Protection?

Poolside fire features that incorporate flowing water have two separate systems: a gas supply for the burner and water plumbing for the fountain or spillway. Both need appropriate care, but their winter preparation requirements are different.

When temperatures fall below freezing, trapped water can expand inside pipes, valves, pumps, and fittings. This pressure may crack connections or damage equipment. Exposed plumbing and components in unheated areas can be particularly vulnerable.

Regular poolside fire bowl maintenance helps identify potential problems before cold weather arrives.

How to Drain Water Lines Before Freezing Temperatures

Water line drainage is one of the most important steps when preparing a water-connected fire feature for an extended shutdown in freezing conditions. The correct procedure depends on the plumbing layout and manufacturer's instructions.

Follow these preparation steps:

1. Turn Off the Water Supply

Switch off the water supply feeding the feature. If the system has a dedicated pump, follow its shutdown instructions before disconnecting or draining any components.

2. Drain the Water Bowl and Connected Plumbing

Remove standing water where the manufacturer's instructions permit. Check accessible drain points, low sections of pipe, and connections where water could collect.

3. Inspect Pumps and Valves

Check the pump housing, valves, fittings, and accessible connections for trapped water, leaks, or visible damage. Drain removable components according to their product instructions.

4. Have the Lines Properly Cleared

Some installations require a qualified pool professional to clear remaining water from plumbing lines using suitable equipment and controlled air pressure. Incorrect pressure or an unsuitable connection can damage pipes and fittings.

5. Protect Exposed Components

Use suitable insulation or protective covers for exposed plumbing and equipment where recommended. Make sure protective materials do not obstruct ventilation, electrical access, or burner components.

What About Gas Fire Bowls and Burners?

Gas fire bowls for pools require separate attention because their burner assemblies and water systems serve different purposes.

Never treat gas lines as water pipes or attempt to drain them using pool plumbing procedures. If the feature will remain unused for an extended period, follow the manufacturer's gas shutoff and storage instructions. Contact a qualified gas technician if you notice leaks, damaged connections, or unusual burner operation.

For fire and water bowls, inspect both systems before returning the feature to regular use.

Common Winterisation Mistakes to Avoid

A few avoidable mistakes can increase the risk of equipment damage:

• Leaving water in low points: Water can remain trapped even after the main bowl has been emptied.

• Ignoring the pump: Residual water inside the pump housing can cause problems during freezing conditions.

• Using excessive air pressure: Improper blowout procedures can damage plumbing connections.

• Covering operating components incorrectly: Covers should not block required airflow or create unsafe conditions around gas equipment.

• Skipping manufacturer instructions: Different outdoor fire features have different plumbing and drainage arrangements.

When Should You Prepare Your Poolside Fire Feature?

In Las Vegas, monitor local weather forecasts for freezing nights, particularly when an outdoor water feature will be shut down for several days or longer. Prepare the system before freezing conditions arrive rather than waiting until temperatures have already dropped.

Homeowners in colder regions may need a more complete winterisation plan. The timing and procedure depend on local temperatures, installation design, and equipment specifications.

Keep Your Outdoor Fire Feature Ready for the Next Season

Protecting poolside fire features starts with understanding how their water and gas systems work. Proper drainage, equipment inspection, and manufacturer-approved winter protection can help reduce the risk of frozen water pipes and unnecessary repairs.

If you're planning a new outdoor setup or considering an upgrade, Outdoor Fire & Patio offers a selection of pool fire bowls, water bowls, and outdoor fire features for residential and commercial spaces. Review the available designs and choose a configuration that suits your poolside layout and maintenance requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can poolside fire bowls be left outside during winter?

Many outdoor fire bowls are designed for outdoor use, but their plumbing and connected equipment still need appropriate protection during freezing conditions. Follow the manufacturer's care instructions.

2. Should I drain a pool fire bowl before a freeze?

If the feature contains a water system, follow its winterisation instructions. Draining the bowl alone may not remove water trapped inside the connected plumbing or pump.

3. Can frozen water pipes damage a pool water feature?

Yes. Water expands when it freezes, potentially cracking pipes, valves, fittings, and pump components.

4. Do gas fire bowls need the same winterisation as water features?

No. Gas burners and water plumbing are separate systems. Each requires its own manufacturer-approved shutdown and maintenance procedure.

5. When should I winterize outdoor fire and water bowls in Las Vegas?

Prepare them before forecast freezing temperatures, especially if the feature will remain unused for an extended period. Routine winterisation may not be necessary during every mild winter period.