How to Unfreeze a Pool Pump

Open the access cover for the pump at the side or end of the pool. It is usually under a grate. Check the ends of the pump where it connects to PVC pipe. If there are joint unions, unscrew them with an adjustable wrench.

Saw the PVC apart if there are no unions. You can use PVC glue and put in unions when you reinstall the pump. This makes it easy to put in and take out without additional steps. Leave several inches off the end of the pipes coming out from the pump to make creating new unions easier.

Bring the pump inside and place it in the sink or tub to thaw. Check the water inside after it has thawed. If there is no water, the housing is cracked. Allow the pump to dry completely and find the crack. Put on gloves and smear epoxy on the crack to seal it.

Reinstall the pump in spring after all danger of freezing has passed. If the pump had joint unions, simply screw them back on. Apply plumber's putty to the threads to ensure that the joints don't leak, which would reduce the vacuum action.

Attach unions if you had to saw the PVC. Apply a thin layer of PVC glue to the ends of the pipes at either end of the pump and push in the female connector. Do the same to the pipe you will be connecting to, only attach the male connector. Screw the two pieces together.

Replace the O-rings in the pump drain plugs if they are cracked or damaged. Turn the pump on and check how well it draws and the flow of water to ensure that it is operating correctly.