HURRICANE POOL PROTECTION CHECKLIST

Follow these expert tips from the Florida Swimming Pool Association to keep your pool protected:

You should always be prepared before a tropical storm or a hurricane. Hurricane season runs from June 1st to November 30th.

BEFORE THE STORM

  • Keep It Full: Don’t drain your pool! The weight of the water keeps the pool from being lifted off its foundation and “popping” out of the ground because of pressure from Florida’s high water table.
  • Trim & Tidy: Cut back branches and remove potential debris.
  • Super Chlorinate: Shock your pool to maintain water quality in case there is a power outage and the pump is unable to run.
  • Power Down: Turn off breakers and cover electrical equipment.
  • Secure Loose Items: Move furniture, toys, etc. indoors. If patio furniture cannot be stored inside, you may gently place it in the pool (avoid scratching the pool finish and note pool chemicals may cause damage).

DURING THE STORM

  • Stay Inside: Avoid using the pool and stay away from outdoor areas.

AFTER THE STORM

  • Inspect Before Use: Be sure that everything is dry before dealing with electrical start-up. Check your circuit breakers to be sure they are off before attempting to reconnect electrical equipment such as pump motors. Inspect the wiring (especially ground wires) for proper connections. Be sure that you are following manufacturers’ instructions when reactivating equipment. If electric motors have been exposed to water, they should be checked by a professional.
  • Clean Safely: Remove debris manually to avoid clogging automatic equipment. Be careful not to damage pool walls when removing large objects.
  • Balance the Water: Test your pool and balance the water chemistry (you may need to shock it). Monitor the system and be sure clocks and timers have been properly reset.
  • Maintain Water Level: If rain has overfilled the pool, you can drain it down to its regular level. If you must drain your pool to clean it, be sure to seek professional advice to prevent damage.

Always tune in to your local news for other weather related tips. 

Source: Florida Swimming Pool Association