Splash pads are bringing refreshing fun to more Texas communities every year, offering water play enjoyment without the staffing and safety concerns of traditional pools. However, one of the most common questions we hear is: ‘What kind of maintenance commitment are we looking at?’ It’s a valid concern—and one that highlights the importance of understanding splash pad maintenance in Texas.
At Lone Star Recreation, we believe in sharing the full picture of what it takes to keep your splash pad operating at its best, beyond its initial installation. The industry standard for splash pads has been set high by Aquatix, backed by decades of water play equipment engineering and the manufacturing experience of Landscape Structures. This quality foundation means that proper maintenance becomes more straightforward and predictable. Our design team walks clients through the types of mechanical systems available for the splash pad they’re considering, reviewing everything from equipment selection to operation and maintenance requirements.
Understanding the Two Types of Splash Pad Systems
Quality counts when selecting splash pad equipment, especially when considering maintenance needs. Aquatix designs and manufactures products and systems specifically for easy maintenance and long-lasting value. When exploring these quality splash pad options and their maintenance requirements, you’ll find two main types of systems available—each with unique implications for splash pad maintenance in Texas:
Domestic Systems , also known as Pass-Through Systems, use fresh potable water that runs through the features and then drains away. These systems are simpler with less complex daily maintenance.
Recirculation Systems collect, filter, treat, and reuse water, similar to a swimming pool. While these systems require more daily regular maintenance, they offer significant water conservation benefits, especially important in Texas.
Year-Round Maintenance Required
Despite their differences, both systems share many maintenance commonalities that follow a predictable seasonal pattern. Maintenance time and cost considerations include:
Daily Maintenance
Most ongoing maintenance costs are associated with daily operations rather than seasonal activities. These daily requirements and costs vary between the two systems. Domestic systems require daily attention, with operating costs primarily driven by water usage. Recirculation systems, on the other hand, have significantly lower water consumption costs but require more regular maintenance attention for water quality management. Aquatix offers detailed maintenance cost estimates that you can review for both Domestic System and Recirculation System splash pads upon request.
Spring Start-Up Maintenance
In Texas, spring start-up typically occurs in April or May of each year. For both system types, this involves:
- Removing winterization plugs and covers
- Cleaning all structures and spraying down the pad
- Testing equipment and controls
- Turning on the water service for the splash pad
Recirculation systems require a few additional steps, like filling and treating the water tank and preparing the filtration system. The entire process typically takes a couple of days at the beginning of each season.
Winterization Maintenance
Proper winterization, typically performed in the fall following the end of the splash pad season, is crucial for protecting your splash pad investment from occasional freezing temperatures.
- Turning off the water to the site
- Draining water from the plumbing and any solenoids
- Installing winterization covers and plugs
While each system type has slight differences in winterization requirements, the process is straightforward and typically requires two days of work to complete.
Quality You’ll Appreciate: Design That Minimizes Maintenance
Aquatix by Landscape Structures creates splash pad components specifically designed with maintenance simplicity in mind, incorporating features that significantly reduce the time and effort needed for ongoing care. All structures and ground sprays feature non-clogging nozzles and self-draining designs that simplify both daily operation and seasonal winterization. Only corrosion-resistant materials are used in these structures and ground sprays, ensuring durable structures specifically engineered to withstand outdoor environments and changing seasonal conditions throughout Texas. While many of our competitors still use brass fittings that corrode quickly and can lead to chemical contamination, Aquatix uses stainless steel components to help prevent corrosion and ensure a safer, longer-lasting solution.
Support Beyond Installation
The real peace of mind that comes with partnering with Lone Star Recreation for your new splash pad is that you’re never alone in maintaining it. Our team offers:
- New Start-Up Assistance
- Annual Spring and Winterization Services
- Maintenance Agreements
- Ongoing Support & Repairs for any of your splash pad needs
Don’t let maintenance concerns keep your community from enjoying the benefits of a splash pad. Our splash pads are designed to minimize maintenance, while our dedicated team provides support from planning through completion and beyond. Tell us what you envision, and we’ll guide you through every step!
