Even the most well-kept swimming pools can get affected by major storms. When these natural disasters occur, they can bring with them a variety of contaminants, such as debris and mud.
Having a pool that's safe and clean can be challenging when severe weather hits. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps that can help get your pool back to its normal state.
- Do NOT drain your pool water.
- Clean the pool surface, floor, 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.
Do Not Remove Water From Your Pool
Even if the water in your pool is already dirty and has debris, you should not remove it from its current state while cleaning after a storm. Doing so could lead to the pool floating or even cause it to explode.
Skim Leaves & Clean Storm Debris From Pool Surface
The first step in getting your pool back in shape is to remove the debris from the surface. This will help prevent the pool from getting clogged and will remove the leaves and debris from the bottom of the pool.
Clean Pump Strainer & Skimmer Baskets
Before restarting your filtration system, it is important to clean out the pump strainers and the skimmer baskets. These components can help keep your system running smoothly.
Check Electrical Equipment & Restore Power
Before you start tackling the cleanup of your pool, make sure to check all of your equipment. This will help prevent possible issues caused by the storm.
If there is water damage or signs of power outage, do not turn off the electricity. Instead, contact a licensed electrician to check the equipment in your home.
If possible, avoid using tools or equipment to clean or turn the power on your pool equipment without consulting a professional first.
Clean & Backwash Pool Filter After Storm
Aside from being cleaned, your filter also needs to be backwashed or cleaned multiple times to remove the dirt and particles in your water. It is also important to note that when cleaning or backwashing, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions.
If you have a DE filter, it's a good time to replace the media. It's also a good time to clean the cartridges individually.
Check the Water Level & Remove Water as Necessary
During a major storm, most likely, a good amount of water will find its way into your pool. It's important to remove the excess water and return it to its normal state while you're cleaning.
If the water level is too high, try draining it using a siphon or a sump pump. This will lower the water level a bit and bring it back to normal.
Vacuum & Brush Pool Walls & Floor To Remove Storm Debris
After draining and restoring the pool's water to the proper level, it is time to clean it. This process involves removing dirt and debris from the bottom of the pool.
If your vacuum is equipped with a built-in filter, it is a good idea to vacuum it directly to waste instead of using it to collect debris. It can help prevent the filter from getting clogged quickly.
Once the pool has been cleaned, brush the walls and vacuum the pool again to remove any debris and dirt.
Shock Water & Balance Chemistry
Even though your pool has been cleaned, it still has traces of harmful organic contaminants that can cause algae growth and other harmful bacteria to develop. To prevent this, use a powerful pool shock.
After the pool has been shocked, start to balance the water's chemistry by measuring the Total Alkalinity. This component will help you set the pH, chlorine level, and calcium hardness of the water.
Run Circulation & Filtration Systems Until Water is Clear
Before you can get back to enjoying your pool, make sure your systems are running. Doing so will help minimize algae growth and help keep the water clean.
When checking the skimmer basket, pump strainer, and filter pressure, make sure to empty the baskets as soon as they empty. Also, backwash your filter if its pressure is over the clean starting pressure.
If you have any other questions about pool and spa products please do let us know - we are here to help!