Tips for Prepping Your Pool Before a Major Storm

Summertime is a great time to enjoy your pool. The summer heat also brings the chance of severe weather. When inclement weather is approaching, you want to make sure that your investment is protected. Storms can cause long-term damage to your pool area. Here are a few tips from Hopkins Custom Pools, your custom pool builder, that can keep your pool safe. 

Turn off the power

Whether you have gas, electricity, or any other power supply for your pool, make sure to turn it off. If the area is expecting any flooding, you want to unplug the pump and filter system too. All other types of pool equipment need to be removed. You should store all items in a safe and dry indoor area. Flood waters can wreak havoc on pool equipment. You need to protect them before the approaching storm hits. 

Remove all loose items 

All the patio furniture that you have enjoyed throughout the year can become a liability when a storm rolls into town. High winds can turn a simple umbrella into a projectile. You need to take all your outdoor furniture and other accessories into a safe location. This includes items such as chaise lounges, umbrellas, pool toys, tables, chairs, and any other things that are not secured to the ground. If you don’t have room to store all of the items, you can always tie them down to keep them secured. 

Don’t cover the pool 

You may want to cover the pool. This truth is covering a pool can do more harm than good. High winds can blow debris on the pool cover. Depending on the type of material, you may have a damaged pool cover. Pool covers are big and bulky. That can make clean up even more difficult. It is also essential to not drain the pool. If there is no water in the pool, the debris can fall in and cause damage to the structure. A drained pool can bulge, split, or even pop out of the ground. 

Balance the pool chemicals 

You should test the pool’s water before the storm. If you need to add chemicals, this is an excellent time to do that. You need to balance the pool's chemistry before the storm hits. You may also want to shock the pool at this time. A super chlorinate with algaecide will give your pool added protection against dirt and debris that can get into the water. 

Trim any loose tree limbs

If you are noticing any loose or overgrown tree limbs, you should think about removing them. They can break off in high winds and blow into the pool. This can add up to costly damage. If you want to go a step further, you should make sure any other landscaping items are trimmed and secured. 

Protecting a pool is important during a storm. You never know what Mother Nature will throw at you, but it is best to be prepared. If you do suffer damage to your pool, Hopkins Custom Pools is a custom pool builder that can help you out.