When it comes to preparing for hurricane season, many people don't realize that they should also check their pool's condition. Having a pool cleaning is a vital step in recovering from the storm.
Although it's important to prepare for the storm, hurricanes can still damage the integrity of your pool. They can sweep dirt and debris into the pool, causing it to become cluttered and prone to other harmful organisms.
Whether your pool has been damaged by a hurricane or a harsh winter, we can help get it back to its former pristine state. Below is the complete list of easy-to-follow tips, including these highlights:
- Do not drain your pool water.
- Clean the pool surface, floor, and walls; the pump strainer; and the skimmer basket.
- Check electrical equipment and restore power when it's safe.
- Shock and balance the water chemistry of your pool.
- Run circulation and filtration systems until water is clear.
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Do Not Drain Your Pool
Even if your pool is clean and has no debris, you should never remove the water from it after a storm. Doing so could cause your pool to suddenly pop out of the ground or lead to an elevated water table.
Skim Leaves and Debris From Pool Surface
The debris that has accumulated beneath the pool surface can cause it to look like a floating pile of rubble. This is the first step to getting the pool back in shape.
The amount of debris in your pool is likely to get to the skimmer basket. To remove it, use a leaf bagger or a fine mesh bag.
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- If you don't have electricity:
If you have no electricity, then you can't clean up after your pool. Make sure that the water in your pool is superchlorinated to remove debris.
With the help of a DiChlor Shock or liquid chlorine, bring the Free Chlorine FAC level up to at least 10 ppm to prevent algae growth and mosquito larvae.
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- If you have electricity:
1. Clean Pump Strainer and Skimmer Baskets
Aside from the pump strainer, it is also a good idea to clean the skimmer baskets and the other components of your filtration system. Doing so will remove any debris that has accumulated in them.
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2. Check Electrical Equipment and Restore Power
Before turning the power back on, make sure to remove all plastic coverings from the equipment. Also, make sure that the filter pump is working properly.
If there is any sign of water damage or water loss, do not turn the power back on. This is a good idea to have a licensed electrician check the equipment.
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3. Clean and Backwash Filter
Due to the large amount of particles in our water, your filter should be cleaned or backwash several times a year to remove all of the dirt and particles. This is usually done before a storm hits.
If you use a DE filter, it's a good time to replace the media. It's also a good time to clean the cartridges individually.
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4. Check the Water Level and Remove Water as Necessary
During a hurricane or a severe storm, some water might have found its way into your pool. Generally, it's best to remove the excess water and return the pool to its normal level.
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5. Vacuum and Brush Pool Walls and Floor
If your filter is not equipped with a filter, then it is a good idea to vacuum the pool instead of using the debris to filter. To avoid this, make sure that the water level is high enough to remove the debris.
After draining and restoring the water to the proper level, it is time to remove the dust and dirt particles from the pool.
You can also vacuum the bottom of the pool using an automatic pool cleaner or a pool vacuum. This will remove the dirt and debris that has accumulated beneath the surface of the pool.
If you cannot vacuum the debris and dirt from your filter, it is important to check its pressure gauge regularly. Once it is too high, clean and backwash it.
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6. Shock and Balance Water Chemistry
Even though your pool looks clean and clear after a hurricane cleaning, there are still organic contaminants floating around that can cause harm.
If left unchecked, these contaminants can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria and algae in the pool. To prevent this, use a powerful pool shock.
After the chlorine level has been lowered to around 3.0 ppm, start with the Total Alkalinity. This will help you determine the proper balance between chlorine and alkalinity.
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7. Run Circulation and Filtration Systems Until Water is Clear
Having your pool's filtration and circulation systems running is the last step to ensuring that the water is clear after a hurricane. Doing so will help keep the system running smoothly and will allow you to get back to enjoying the pool.
When running the equipment, make sure to check the pump strainer basket, the skimmer basket, and the pressure gauge. These items will help keep the equipment running smoothly.
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If you have any other questions about pool and spa products please do let us know - we are here to help!
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