Hello, fellow pool owners! With hurricane season upon us (June - November), it's crucial to ensure that your pool is ready to withstand the impending storms. At Infinity Pool Solutions, we understand the anxiety that comes with severe weather forecasts. That's why we've put together this handy guide to help you secure and protect your pool and its equipment in the event of a hurricane. Follow these essential tips to keep your pool safe and minimize damage during a storm.
1. Don't Drain Your Pool
You might think draining your pool is a good idea to prevent overflow, but it’s actually the opposite! Keeping your pool full can counteract the high groundwater pressure that may cause your pool to "pop" out of the ground. A filled pool also acts as a weight to hold down the surrounding structure, which can be beneficial during heavy rains and strong winds.
2. Balance Your Water Chemistry
Before the storm hits, make sure your pool water is balanced. Adding a little extra chlorine will help prevent contamination from debris. It's also a good idea to shock your pool and ensure your pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels are optimal. This helps to avoid potential chemical imbalances caused by the influx of rainwater.
3. Secure Loose Items
Remove and store any loose objects from the pool area such as pool toys, patio furniture, umbrellas, and anything that could become a projectile in strong winds. These items can cause significant damage to your pool and surrounding areas if left unsecured.
4. Turn Off Power and Secure Electrical Equipment
Power down your pool equipment, including the pump, heater, and chlorinators. If possible, cover your pool's electrical components with waterproof plastic covers or tarps to protect them from water damage. It’s also wise to switch off the power at the circuit breaker to avoid electrical issues once the storm passes.
5. Protect Your Pool Equipment
For larger pieces of equipment, such as the pool pump and filter, ensure they are securely anchored or stored in a safe location if possible. Use plastic or waterproof covers to shield them from excessive water exposure, but avoid tightly sealing equipment in plastic bags to prevent moisture buildup and damage.
6. Remove Pool Covers
While it might seem like a good idea to cover your pool, heavy winds and rain can cause covers to tear or fly away, leading to even more damage. It’s best to remove and store pool covers before the storm arrives.
7. Trim Nearby Trees and Shrubs
To minimize debris falling into your pool, trim any trees or shrubs near your pool area. This reduces the risk of branches breaking and causing damage during high winds.
8. Check Your Pool Fence and Gates
Ensure that all fences and gates around your pool are secure and in good condition. This will help to keep debris out of your pool and prevent them from becoming hazardous during the storm.
9. Prepare for Debris Removal Post-Storm
Keep your pool net and skimmer handy to remove debris once it’s safe to do so after the storm. Clearing debris promptly will help prevent your pool’s filtration system from clogging and keep your pool water from becoming contaminated.
10. Document Your Pool’s Condition
Take photos or videos of your pool and its surrounding area before the storm hits. This can be helpful for insurance purposes in case you need to file a claim for any damages that occur during the hurricane.
11. Consult with Professionals
If you’re uncertain about any of these steps or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Infinity Pool Solutions. We’re here to help you ensure your pool is storm-ready and to answer any questions you may have.
Stay Safe & Prepared
By following these essential tips, you can help safeguard your pool and equipment during a hurricane. Remember, your safety and the safety of your family come first, so always heed local weather advisories and evacuate if necessary. At [Your Local Pool Company], we’re committed to helping you protect your investment and enjoy your pool for many seasons to come.
Stay safe and weather-ready!
If you have any questions or need more information on how to protect your pool, feel free to contact us. We’re here to assist you in any way we can.