Is Your Pool Ready for Hurricane Season in Southwest Florida?
Tue, Jun 25th, 2024
Hurricane season is here from June 1st thru November 30th in Southwest Florida, it's crucial for pool owners to ensure that their pools are prepared to withstand the potential severe weather. Hurricanes can bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, and flying debris, all of which can cause significant damage to pools and their equipment.
Proper preparation can help minimize damage and make recovery easier once the storm has passed. Here are some key steps to get your pool ready for hurricane season.
1. Secure Loose Items
One of the first steps in preparing your pool for a hurricane is to secure or store away any loose items around the pool area. This includes pool furniture, toys, tools, and equipment. Strong winds can turn these items into dangerous projectiles, which can cause damage to your pool and property or even injure someone. Store these items in a secure location, such as a garage or shed, until the storm has passed.
2. Lower the Water Level
Contrary to popular belief, you should not drain your pool completely. Doing so can cause the pool to "pop" out of the ground due to hydrostatic pressure. However, lowering the water level by one to two feet can help prevent overflow and minimize the amount of debris that enters the pool. Ensure that the water level is adjusted according to local regulations and recommendations from pool professionals.
3. Turn Off Power and Equipment
Before the storm hits, turn off all electrical power to your pool equipment. This includes pumps, heaters, filters, and chlorinators. If possible, disconnect these devices and store them in a safe, dry place. Water and electricity do not mix, and this precaution can prevent damage to your equipment and reduce the risk of electrical hazards.
4. Protect the Pool Cover
If you have a pool cover, remove it before the storm arrives. High winds can cause significant damage to pool covers, and they can also become dangerous projectiles. Instead, focus on securing the pool area and ensuring that any debris that enters the pool can be easily cleaned out after the storm.
5. Balance the Water Chemistry
Before the hurricane arrives, make sure your pool's water chemistry is balanced. Properly balanced water can help protect your pool's surfaces and equipment from damage caused by debris and contaminants that may enter the pool during the storm. Shock the pool with chlorine to prevent algae growth and sanitize the water.
6. Use a Pool Floatation Device
Place a pool floatation device, such as a pool pillow or an inflatable toy, in the center of your pool. This can help absorb the impact of debris and reduce the risk of damage to the pool's walls and liner. It can also help prevent water displacement caused by heavy rainfall.
7. Trim Nearby Trees and Shrubs
Trim any overhanging branches or nearby shrubs that could potentially fall into the pool during high winds. This will reduce the amount of debris that enters the pool and minimize the risk of damage to the pool's structure and surrounding area.
8. Cover the Pool Equipment
If it is not possible to remove the pool equipment, cover it with waterproof tarps or covers. Secure the covers tightly to prevent water from entering and damaging the equipment. This step can help protect the equipment from water damage and make post-storm cleanup easier.
9. Plan for Post-Storm Cleanup
Have a plan in place for cleaning up your pool after the storm. This includes removing debris, rebalancing the water chemistry, and inspecting the pool and equipment for any damage. Be prepared to clean the pool filter and pump thoroughly to remove any dirt and debris that may have entered during the storm.
10. Consider Professional Help
In some cases, it may be beneficial to hire a professional pool maintenance and repair company to help with hurricane preparations and post-storm cleanup. Professionals have the expertise and equipment to ensure that your pool is properly secured and maintained, reducing the risk of damage and ensuring a quicker recovery after the storm.
Preparing your pool for hurricane season in Southwest Florida is essential to protect your investment and ensure the safety of your property. By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of damage and make post-storm recovery more manageable. Remember, it is always better to be over-prepared than underprepared when it comes to hurricane season. Take the necessary precautions now to ensure that your pool is ready to weather the storm.
Contact Sweetwater Pool Service for all of your swimming pool maintenance, equipment installation and repair needs!