Winters in Louisiana are pretty mild, especially compared to areas that deal with snow and freezing temps for weeks at a time. But even here, the weather shifts just enough to change how pools behave, and how we care for them. Pools do not go into hibernation just because it’s colder. Rain, dips in temperature, cloudy skies, and shorter days all play a role. When not checked often, small problems can creep in during these quiet months. For homeowners with custom inground pools in Louisiana, staying ahead of the season helps protect their space and keeps it ready for warmer days.

Understanding Louisiana’s Winter Climate

Winter in Louisiana tends to be wet and chilly, not icy and frozen. Some mornings feel cold enough for a jacket, and short cold snaps can hit unexpectedly. While we do not usually worry about long freezes, there are days when the temps drop low enough to make a difference.

This type of winter impacts pools differently than in places with snow. The ground does not freeze solid, but we still see rain that can throw off water levels, and brief overnight freezes that might put strain on pool equipment. Pools in the South are exposed year-round, which means care has to shift with the season instead of stopping completely.

Instead of snow removal or full shutdowns, our winter work revolves around monitoring weather swings, keeping equipment running here and there, and dealing with water that stays quiet for longer stretches.

How Inground Pools Handle Cold Temperatures

Inground pools are built to last, but they still react when the weather shifts. Water can affect the pool’s chemistry over time, especially when it’s cool and stagnant. When our pumps or filters are not run on a schedule, things like chemical balance and debris control start to head in the wrong direction.

Even without snow or deep freezes, occasional cold nights can freeze any trapped water in pipes or fittings. That is why it’s a good idea to run the system regularly, just enough to keep things moving.

Most custom inground pools are built with tough materials that hold up through Louisiana winters. Surfaces like plaster and concrete do not crack easily in our climate, but they still appreciate a little help. Letting systems run now and then and staying on top of signs like low pressure or odd sounds can make a difference. We, as Artesian Pools and Spas, led by a third-generation pool builder, use premium plaster, concrete, and finishes that are built to stand up to local weather and daily use.

Common Winter Issues Homeowners Should Watch For

Just because you’re not using the pool does not mean it is sitting still. A few things tend to pop up during winter if the pool is not checked from time to time.

• Algae and cloudy water can show up when chlorine fades or water does not circulate regularly.

• Heavy rain can raise the water level and cause overflow, especially if drains are clogged or decks have standing water.

• Rare freezes can lead to surface cracks or strain on plumbing if water is left sitting in pipes overnight.

We tend to think of winter as safe from pool trouble, but those little in-between days when the weather flips without warning are when issues can start.

Why Custom Design Makes a Difference in Pool Performance

Pools that are thoughtfully planned tend to handle winter changes better. For homeowners with custom inground pools in Louisiana, this difference shows up when things like drainage and plumbing are built for the local weather.

Key features that help pools through winter include:

• Good deck and yard drainage that stops water from pooling or runoff from flowing into the pool.

• Strong materials and finishes that resist surface damage from cooler temps or wind-blown debris.

• Properly sized pipes and pumps that help keep water moving smoothly even with irregular use.

The layout matters as well. Pools designed with sun exposure or shelter in mind have fewer cold spots or shaded areas that tend to grow algae. Each of these small details adds up to better performance through the low-use season. We provide fully customized pool and deck layouts, drainage design, and expert installation across Southeast Louisiana to maximize year-round durability.

Keeping Your Investment Ready for Spring

Winter’s slower pace makes it a great time to catch small issues before they grow. Regular check-ins do not take much, but they make starting the pool back up easier once the weather turns warm again.

Even if you’re not swimming, walking the pool once a week can help spot things like overflowing water, debris buildup, or strange equipment sounds. Testing water every few weeks keeps chemistry from going off balance and saves time down the road.

Off-season maintenance does not need to feel like a chore. A quick look and a power-up for the pump now and then can help preserve everything you have put into your backyard space. Skipping it can lead to bigger headaches when the sun comes back out.

Built to Withstand, Ready to Enjoy

Cold weather in Louisiana does not last long, but it still matters when it comes to your pool. Even the best-built space needs occasional care to stay looking its best. Pools designed for our climate tend to hold up well when a few smart steps are taken each season.

When we stay one step ahead, we give our pools a fresh start by the time spring rolls in. That means less scrubbing, fewer surprises, and more time to actually enjoy the water once things warm back up.

At Artesian Pools and Spas, we build spaces that are made to last through every season, even during Louisiana’s unpredictable winters. From drainage to design, our approach helps each pool manage the mild cold, short freezes, and heavy rains common in our area. Thinking about ways to protect or prepare your own backyard space? It helps to understand how custom inground pools in Louisiana are designed for year-round resilience. We are here to help you feel more confident about your pool, no matter the month. Reach out to us today to talk about your winter care options.