Pool Preparation during Hurricane Season
Preparing your pool or spa/hot tub prior to a Tropical Storm or Hurricane is necessary to ensure they provide continued enjoyment after the storm has passed. According to the Florida Swimming Pool Association (www.floridapoolpro.com) there are some basic things you should do to your pool/spa before and after the storm.
Before storm:
Do not drain your pool! Maintaining proper water levels will ensure the weight of the water keeps the sides and bottoms in place during a storm, especially where water tables may rise during heavy rains.
Turn off power at the circuit breakers to the pool equipment. You may also want to cover pumps and other electrical equipment to reduce exposure to wet weather.
Shock your pool (super chlorinate it). If you lose power for an extended period of time this will help to maintain the pool chemistry. Consult your pool maintenance professional for details.
Clear unsecured objects from poolside – chairs, tables, pool equipment, etc. – that may become flying projectiles in high winds. If you can’t store items inside, then gently and carefully place them in the pool to keep them from being affected by the wind. Remember, place items in the pool rather than toss them – you don’t want to damage the side and bottom of the pool. Also, pool chemicals may damage some items, so be careful.
After storm:
Before turning the pool pumps back on, clear debris from the pool with a net, uncover equipment covered prior to the storm, and check electrical connections/wiring. Consult a professional if anything appears to be damaged.
You may want to shock the pool again to balance the chemicals in the pool. Consult your pool professional.
More details regarding pool maintenance and safety prior to and after storms can be found at www.floridapoolpro.com or https://www.floridapoolpro.com/hurricane-pool-safety/
