Preparing your pool for a storm is important, but your personal safety and the safety of your loved ones should always come first. Only perform these steps if it is safe to do so. Follow all local weather advisories and evacuation orders, and prioritize staying out of harm’s way.
1. Secure the Pool Area
Strong winds can turn outdoor furniture and loose objects into dangerous projectiles, potentially damaging your pool shell or surrounding areas.
- Remove all pool furniture, toys, umbrellas, and any other items near the pool that could be picked up by the wind.
- Store these items in a safe, enclosed area like a garage or shed.
- Check for any loose items in the yard, such as garden tools, potted plants, or decorations, and secure them as well.
2. Leave the Pool Uncovered
- Pool covers can tear or trap debris during a storm, causing more damage.
- An uncovered pool is easier to clean and less likely to suffer damage from the storm.
3. Monitor the Water Inspection Port
The water inspection port displays the water table under the pool. It’s very important to check this periodically during the storm to ensure water isn’t accumulating.
To remove water from the Inspection port:
- Use a sump pump to drain the water.
- If you don’t own a sump pump, we recommend purchasing one from a hardware store (e.g., Lowe’s, Home Depot, Grainger).
- Keep the water level in the observation port as low as possible to prevent pressure buildup under the pool.
4. Prevent Pool Overflow
Heavy rain can cause your pool to overflow, leading to flooding and damage to the surrounding area.
- Regularly monitor the water level during the storm to ensure it doesn’t rise too high.
- To lower water -Backwash to waste until the water is at the correct level, midway of the skimmer.
To lower the pool water level:
- Backwash to waste until the water is at the correct level, typically the bottom of the skimmer.
- If extreme heavy rain is expected, you may want to drop the pool water level by 8–10 inches in preparation.
- Run the system from the main drains only to avoid overloading the skimmer.
- Regularly monitor the water level during the storm to ensure it doesn’t rise too high.
5. Turn Off Pool Equipment
Your pool equipment is not covered under warranty for storm damage, so it’s crucial to protect it from potential harm caused by fallen limbs, flooding, power surges, or heavy rain.
- Turn off all pool equipment at the breaker before the storm hits.
- Leave the equipment off for at least 24 hours after the rain stops to allow it to dry out completely.
- Before turning the equipment back on:
- Remove all debris from the pool to prevent blockages in the plumbing.
- Empty all skimmer and pump baskets.
- Inspect the equipment for any visible damage or water intrusion.
- Ensure the area around the equipment is dry and clear of debris.
6. Add Shock if Power is Out
If you lose power for several days or are unable to run your pool equipment, it’s important to maintain water quality to prevent staining and algae growth.
- Add a small amount of pool shock, using only Non-Chlorine shock (MPS), and brush the pool to ensure even distribution of the shock.
- Continue brushing the pool daily until power is restored and the filtration system is functioning properly
Freezing temperatures during power outages can damage your pool equipment. Always refer to your specific equipment manuals for model‑specific instructions, or consult a qualified pool professional for guidance.
7. For New Installations
If your pool installation is not yet complete, take extra precautions to protect your investment:
- Follow all the steps above to minimize damage.
- Contact your pool installer for further guidance.
- If the pool decking has not been installed, cover the pool with plastic sheeting to prevent heavy rain from impacting the pool from underneath.
- Secure the plastic tightly to ensure it stays in place during the storm.
- This will also help prevent the pool from overflowing, which can cause additional issues.
8. Important Reminder
NEVER DRAIN YOUR POOL!
Draining the pool can cause structural damage, especially during a storm when the water table is high. The weight of the water in the pool helps to counteract the pressure from groundwater beneath the pool.
Additional Notes
Personal Safety First: Always prioritize your safety and the safety of your family. If conditions are unsafe, do not attempt to perform these steps. Follow local weather advisories and evacuation orders.
Service Delays: After a storm, there may be delays in service and installations as things dry out. Services may be limited, so plan accordingly.
Final Tips for Storm Recovery
- Once the storm has passed, inspect your pool and equipment for any visible damage.
- Remove debris from the pool and surrounding area as soon as it’s safe to do so.
- Test the water chemistry and balance it as needed to restore proper conditions established by the manufacturer.
- If you’re unsure about restarting your equipment or need assistance, contact a professional for guidance.
By following these steps, you can help protect your pool and equipment from storm damage while ensuring your safety remains the top priority. Always stay safe!
