How to Prep your Pool for a Hurricane or Rainstorm
Storms are serious business, and can definitely cause a great deal of damage. Having a storm preparedness plan is very important, so you will be ready to keep your family and property safe during hurricane and tornado season. And preparing your pool is an important part of hurricane prep, which shouldn’t be overlooked!
During a storm or hurricane, dust and debris gets washed or blown into your pool, phosphates get deposited into your water and your chlorine, salt and minerals get diluted. Your pool can also potentially flood, damaging surrounding structures.
If you fail to prepare, you prepare to fail. Before rain hits:
Balance your pool properly. Get a free water test at your local Poolwerx for the best advice on what your pool needs to be balanced.
Consider adding some algaecide. This will help fight off many of the organic contaminants the rainwater introduces, making your pool easier to clean after the storm dissipates. Algaecide adds an extra layer of protection for your pool, preventing black, green and yellow algae growth, giving your pool a fighting chance.
Don’t drain your pool. Keeping enough water levels in your pool provides the weight necessary to hold the sides and bottom in place during the storm or hurricane. This is especially important as the heavy rains begin to fall, which could cause damage. If you have surrounding structures that can be damaged by water, you can lower your water levels by 1-2 feet.
Turn off your power! All electrical power to your pool should be turned off at the circuit breakers before the hurricane hits. Any and all exposed electrical equipment, such as motors for the pumps, should be tightly covered. If you have a gas heater, turn off the gas.
Remove all loose objects such as chairs, tables, toys, and pool equipment. Store all items in a secure indoor place. If applicable, you should also trim your trees. Any of these objects can become dangerous flying projectiles during a powerful storm.
Now your pool has weathered the hurricane. What should you do after the storm? We have an after-storm pool care guide for you! Click here to read more.
