What To Do With Your Pool During a Hurricane: A Comprehensive Guide
During a hurricane, your swimming pool is less about recreation and more about potential hazard. Preparation is key: secure loose items, don’t drain the pool, and turn off power to pool equipment to minimize damage and prevent flooding or electrical hazards.
Understanding Hurricane Pool Preparedness
Hurricanes bring torrential rain, powerful winds, and potential flooding, all of which can wreak havoc on your pool and surrounding property. Proper planning can mitigate the risk of costly repairs and ensure your pool is ready for whatever Mother Nature throws its way. Preparing your pool requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing securing loose objects, managing water levels, and protecting your equipment. Ignoring these steps can lead to significant damage, ranging from a dirty pool to a completely destroyed pump house.
Securing the Perimeter
The first step in hurricane pool preparation is to secure all loose items around the pool. This includes patio furniture, pool toys, umbrellas, and any other objects that could become projectiles in high winds. Store these items inside a garage, shed, or your house. Even heavy items can be swept away by hurricane-force winds, causing damage to your property and potentially harming people.
Managing Water Levels
Contrary to common belief, do not drain your pool before a hurricane. An empty pool is more vulnerable to structural damage. The weight of the water helps to stabilize the pool shell and prevent it from popping out of the ground due to hydrostatic pressure from the rising water table. Instead, allow the pool to overflow naturally.
Protecting Your Pool Equipment
Your pool equipment, including the pump, filter, heater, and chlorinator, is particularly susceptible to damage from flooding and power surges. Turn off the power to your pool equipment at the breaker to prevent electrical damage. If possible, cover the equipment with waterproof tarps or move it to a higher elevation to protect it from flooding.
Post-Hurricane Pool Recovery
Once the hurricane has passed, assess the damage to your pool and surrounding area. Avoid entering the pool until you are certain it is safe. The water may be contaminated with debris and bacteria, and there could be hidden hazards beneath the surface.
Assessing the Damage
Carefully inspect the pool for any structural damage, such as cracks or leaks. Check the pool equipment for signs of damage, including broken pipes, damaged pumps, and electrical problems. Be extremely cautious when inspecting electrical equipment.
Cleaning and Restoring Your Pool
Remove any debris from the pool and surrounding area. If the water is heavily contaminated, it may be necessary to drain and refill the pool. However, before draining, consult with a pool professional to ensure that the pool can withstand being emptied without causing structural damage. Once the pool is clean, shock the water with a high dose of chlorine to kill any remaining bacteria. Test the water chemistry and adjust as needed to restore it to a safe and balanced level.
Prevention is Key
Hurricane preparedness is an ongoing process. Regularly inspect your pool and equipment for signs of wear and tear. Keep your pool clean and properly maintained to prevent problems that could be exacerbated by a hurricane. Consider investing in a pool cover designed to withstand hurricane-force winds.
FAQs: Your Hurricane Pool Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions about preparing your pool for a hurricane, designed to give you specific guidance.
FAQ 1: Should I cover my pool before a hurricane?
While a pool cover seems like a good idea, standard covers often become projectiles in high winds. Consider a heavy-duty, hurricane-rated pool cover if you are in a hurricane-prone area. These covers are designed to withstand high winds and prevent debris from entering the pool. A standard cover might actually cause more damage.
FAQ 2: What if my pool water turns green after the hurricane?
Green pool water typically indicates an algae bloom caused by a lack of sanitation and sunlight. After the storm, test the water chemistry and adjust the pH and alkalinity levels. Shock the pool with a high dose of chlorine to kill the algae. Run the filter continuously until the water clears. Consider using an algaecide to prevent future blooms.
FAQ 3: Can I use my pool pump to pump water out of my yard after a flood?
While it might be tempting, it is not recommended to use your pool pump to pump water out of your yard. This can damage the pump and contaminate the pool with dirt and debris. It’s better to rent a sump pump specifically designed for this purpose.
FAQ 4: How do I deal with debris in my pool after the storm?
Use a leaf rake or skimmer to remove large debris from the surface of the pool. For smaller debris, use a pool vacuum. If the debris is excessive, you may need to drain and refill the pool. Ensure the pool has been properly sanitized before swimming again.
FAQ 5: What should I do if the power goes out and my pool equipment stops working?
Turn off the power to your pool equipment at the breaker to prevent damage when the power is restored. Once the power is back on, inspect the equipment for damage before turning it back on. If you have a generator, you can use it to power your pool equipment, but be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
FAQ 6: How can I prevent my pool from overflowing during a hurricane?
You can’t prevent a pool from overflowing during a hurricane because of the amount of rain involved. Instead, focus on making sure the overflow drains are clear of debris before the storm hits. Overflowing water will eventually find its way to the drains.
FAQ 7: Is it safe to swim in the pool immediately after the hurricane passes?
No, it is not safe to swim in the pool immediately after the hurricane. The water may be contaminated with debris, bacteria, and chemicals. Wait until the water has been properly cleaned, tested, and balanced before swimming. Follow local health advisories.
FAQ 8: What if my pool has shifted or cracked after the hurricane?
If you notice any structural damage to your pool, such as cracks or shifting, contact a qualified pool professional immediately. Do not attempt to repair the damage yourself. A professional can assess the extent of the damage and recommend the appropriate repairs.
FAQ 9: How do I know if my pool water is safe to swim in again?
Test the water chemistry using a pool test kit. The pH, alkalinity, chlorine, and other levels should be within the recommended ranges. If you are unsure, take a sample of the water to a local pool supply store for testing. Only swim in the pool when the water is clean, clear, and properly balanced.
FAQ 10: Should I drain my spa or hot tub before a hurricane?
Similar to a pool, it’s generally not advisable to drain your spa or hot tub completely before a hurricane. The weight of the water helps stabilize the structure. Instead, turn off the power and secure the cover tightly.
FAQ 11: What kind of insurance coverage do I need for my pool in case of hurricane damage?
Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to understand what is covered in the event of hurricane damage. Some policies may cover damage to the pool itself, as well as the surrounding landscaping and equipment. Consider adding supplemental flood insurance if you live in a flood-prone area. Document everything with photographs and videos before and after the storm.
FAQ 12: Are there any government resources available to help with hurricane pool damage?
After a major hurricane, government assistance may be available through FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) or other state and local agencies. Check their websites for information on disaster relief programs and eligibility requirements. Contact your local emergency management agency for more information.
By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your pool during a hurricane and ensure that you are prepared to safely clean and restore it afterwards. Remember that safety is paramount, so always err on the side of caution when dealing with a hurricane and its aftermath.