Preparing Your Pool for Hurricane Season

Hurricane season is here – prepare your pool as well as your home. There are important factors to consider before and after a hurricane storm to keep your swimming pool functioning optimally. It may take a few days to get the pool water balanced back to normal after a storm.

Before the Storm

• Clear all furniture, toys, grills, etc. from the area around the pool
• Remove pool and spa covers
• Trim large tree branches that could become flying objects
• Add chlorine to prevent algae and bacteria
• Shock the pool chemistry in case the power goes out for an extended period
• After the chemicals have circulated for 24 hours, shut off the pool motor at the breaker to prevent electrical problems
• If your pool pump is in an area that might get submerged, wrap with waterproof plastic or sandbags
• Don’t drain the pool completely; keep water level such that water still passes into the skimmer

After the Storm

• Remove as much debris as possible before powering up the pool equipment
• Don’t drain the pool as this could create a pressure imbalance and damage the pool’s foundation
• Reset electrical systems – make sure all devices are dry first
• Chlorinate the pool and circulate continuously until clarity returns to the pool
• Clean filters often