Swimming Pool Hurricane Precautions

www.floridapoolonline.com written by: Sweetwater Pool Service Team 239-775-pool (7665)

People may ask, "Won't the pool overflow if we don't, at least, lower the water?" Yes it may, but no more so than if a patio or a plot of grass were there instead. Adequate drainge is usually provided for in the design of a pool. Keeping the water in the pool provides the important weight to hold the pool in the ground. An empty pool is subject to "floating" or "popping" out of the ground due to "lift" pressure from excessive ground water caused by the heavy rains that may accompany the storm. Turn off Electric Power to Swimming Pool Equipment: Circuit breakers at the main electrical panel should be turned off to prevent pump motors, lighting, chlorinators, and heaters from operating.

Protect the Electric Pool Equipment: Wrap the pump motor, time clock, light transformers and electric heaters with a waterproof plastic membrane and tie it securely in place to prevent sand and driving water from entering. If flooding is expected, it may be best to disconnect these devices and store them in a dry place

Remove all Loose Items From the Pool Area: Loose objects such as chairs, tables, toys and pool tools which can become dangerous projectiles in high winds should be stored inside of buildings. It's not advisable to throw patio furniture into the pool unless it is a last resort. If it is necessary to do so, gently place these items into the pool to prevent possible damage to the interior finish and remove as soon as possible to avoid staining.

Protect the Screen Enclosure: Some damage to the frame of the screen structure may be prevented if you provide a "vent" for wind to flow through. Consider removing screen panels on opposite sides of the enclosure by pulling out the vinyl spline that retain the panels.

Add Extra Chlorine to the Pool: To prevent contamination from the anticipated debris and excessive storm water, add a "shock" dose of liquid or granular chlorine.

As Before the Storm, Do Not Empty the Pool: An empty pool is subject to "floating" or "popping" out of the ground due to "lift" pressure from excessive ground water caused by heavy rains that may have accompanied the storm. If it appears necessary to drain the pool due to excessive debris and/or damage, you should seek professional advice.

AFTER THE STORM

Remove Debris From Pool First: Remove large objects by hand and use a "pool rake" or "skimmer net" to remove smaller debris from the pool. Do not attempt to use the pool's vacuum system for debris that is likely to plug the plumbing.

Check Electrical Equipment Before Restarting System: Remove waterproof plastic membrane from electrical devices and be sure they are dry before turning circuit breakers on again. If these devices have been exposed to water, they should be checked by a licensed professional. Then turn on electricity, prime the filter system, and check for normal operation.

Clean the Filter Equipment: Clean the filter and run the system 24 hours a day. When the water has attained proper clarity then reset the time clock for a normal daily cycle.

Add Chlorine to Pool: To prevent contamination from the storm debris and excessive storm water add a "shock" dose of liquid or granular chlorine to the pool water.

Balance the Pool Water Chemistry: Readjust the pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness and conditioner levels and continue to check them carefully over several days.

Monitor the Pool Operation: It is important to monitor the overall operation of the entire system for several days after the storm to be sure everything is operating properly. Please call us after the storm and tell us your situation, we will do our best to get to you and help you get your pool up and running.