How do I protect my pool during a storm?

Protecting your pool during a storm is crucial to prevent damage and maintain water quality. Strong winds, heavy rain, and debris can all cause issues, but with a little preparation, you can minimize the impact. Here's a step-by-step guide to protect your above-ground pool during a storm:

1. Secure Pool Equipment and Accessories

• Remove loose items: Pool toys, floats, skimmer nets, and any other loose accessories should be brought indoors to prevent them from becoming projectiles in high winds.

• Cover your pool equipment: If you have equipment like pumps, filters, and heaters that are exposed, make sure to cover them with waterproof tarps to protect from water damage. You can also unplug electrical equipment if the storm involves lightning.

2. Cover Your Pool

• Use a pool cover: If you have a winter cover or debris cover, secure it tightly around the pool to keep leaves, branches, and debris from falling in.

  • For above-ground pools, the cover should be taut so it doesn't collect water, which can cause it to sag or tear. A cover pump can help drain rainwater that collects on top of the cover.

• If you don’t have a cover, try to use a tarp or plastic sheeting to cover the pool and secure it with weights around the edges to prevent debris from getting in.

3. Shut Down the Pool Equipment (If Needed)

• Power off the pump and filter: If a storm is expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, or lightning, it’s a good idea to turn off and unplug your pool equipment to avoid damage from a power surge.

• Check the power source: If your pool’s electrical system is exposed, consider turning off the power at the circuit breaker. Avoid using the pool during the storm, especially if there's lightning.

4. Check Your Pool’s Water Level

• Adjust water levels if necessary: After a heavy storm, there may be a lot of rainwater, causing the pool’s water level to rise. To prevent an overfilled pool that could damage the liner or the pool’s walls, ensure your water level is at the appropriate height before the storm hits (usually about halfway up the skimmer).

• Drain excess water if necessary: If the water level becomes too high, you may need to pump out some water using a submersible pump or your pool’s pump system (if it's equipped to do so).

5. Trim Nearby Trees and Shrubs

• Prune trees and bushes near the pool to reduce the risk of falling branches and debris. Strong winds can easily knock over limbs, which may damage the pool structure or land in the water.

• Remove any dead branches and ensure that trees are healthy to reduce the chance of large limbs breaking off in the storm.

6. Monitor the Storm

• Track the storm: Stay updated on weather forecasts. If you’re expecting a major storm or hurricane, you may need to take additional steps, like completely draining the pool or reinforcing the pool structure.

7. After the Storm: Inspect and Clean

Once the storm has passed, inspect your pool and its surroundings for any damage:

• Check for debris: Remove any branches, leaves, or other debris that may have blown into the pool. You can use a leaf net or skimmer to scoop out larger debris.

• Clear the pool cover: If you used a cover, remove it and clean it. If water pooled on top of the cover, make sure it’s properly drained so it doesn’t sag.

• Check the pool’s water chemistry: After a storm, heavy rain can throw off your pool's chemical balance. Test the water and adjust the chemicals (pH, chlorine, alkalinity) as needed.

• Inspect the pool equipment: Make sure the pool pump, filter, and heater haven’t been damaged by debris, water, or power surges.

8. Special Considerations for Severe Storms or Hurricanes

For more severe storms, such as hurricanes, you may want to consider more extensive preparations:

• Remove or secure the pool’s ladder: If the storm is severe enough, consider removing the pool ladder or securing it tightly to avoid it becoming a projectile.

• Consider partially draining your pool: In extremely high winds or if the storm involves flooding, some pool owners choose to partially drain their pools to reduce the amount of water pressure pushing on the sides of the pool.

• Reinforce the pool structure: If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, consider reinforcing your above-ground pool with reinforced walls or bracing to minimize storm damage. Consult a pool professional if you’re concerned about the stability of your pool.

Bonus Tip: Invest in Storm-Proof Pool Equipment

For areas that are frequently impacted by storms, consider investing in storm-proof pool equipment. For example, a removable or reinforced deck around your pool, a more durable pool cover, and a solar-powered pool pump can provide extra protection.

Taking these precautions will help protect your pool and pool equipment during a storm, making cleanup easier afterward.