Prepare Your Pool for a Storm

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

Minimize storm damage to your swimming pool by knowing what precautions to take and what to do after the storm ends.

Your in- or above-ground swimming pool is not just a place of fun and relaxation, it’s also a big investment. Here are ways to protect your pool from storm damage cleanup from a hurricane or other powerful storm.

Keep the Water In Your Pool

Draining your swimming pool or spa before a storm hits will not keep it from overflowing and flooding your property. Properly built or installed pools should be equipped with overflows that will drain excess water. Additionally, the water in your pool will protect your pool's finish from the effects of flying debris.

You may want to lower the water level slightly, no more than 1 to 2 feet. Otherwise, the hydrostatic pressure can cause the pool to "float" or "pop" out of the ground, according to the Official Broward (Florida) County Hurricane Preparedness Guide.

Prepare Your Pool Equipment

The most significant storm damage to your pool can occur to its pump and motor.

• Turn off the circuit breaker to the pool equipment (pump, motor, lighting, chlorinators, etc.).
• If possible, remove the motor and move it inside, away from water and flooding.
• If you can’t remove the motor, tightly wrap it with plastic and secure it with strapping tape or rope.

If you have time, remove all loose items from the pool area, including filter housings, filter lid, etc.

What to Do After the Storm

Once the storm has passed, do a few essential tasks—basic clean-up and water conditioning—to get the recovery started. You'll want to:

• Resist draining the pool.
• Clean debris from the pool to keep it from staining.
• Balance water pH and super chlorinate (or shock your pool). Run the filter until the water becomes clear.
• Don't allow anyone to use your pool right before or after super chlorination.
• Inspect your pool pump and motor for damage. Let the motor dry for at least 24 hours.
• If you couldn't remove your equipment before the storm and it was underwater, have a professional check it.
• When electricity has returned, call a licensed, insured pool repair company to inspect your pool and equipment thoroughly.

If your home or business suffers damage from a natural disaster, call SERVPRO of West Hartford today at 860.206.6141

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The team at SERVPRO of West Hartford has specialized training and experience in natural disaster and storm damage cleanup, water damage remediation, fire restoration services and chemical cleanup. Call SERVPRO of West Hartford (860.206.6141) any time.

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If your home or business suffers damage from a natural disaster, call SERVPRO of West Hartford today at 860.206.6141