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How to Prepare Your Pool for Hurricane Season

Hurricane season is here, and if you own a pool, you need to take some steps to protect it from the potential damage and contamination caused by strong winds and heavy rains. Here are some tips on how to prepare your pool for a hurricane, and what to do after the storm passes.

**Before the Hurricane**

- **Don't empty the pool.**
Water in the pool provides weight to keep the pool in the ground. An empty pool can float or pop out of the ground due to pressure from excessive ground water caused by heavy rains. Also, keeping water inside your pool, despite the possibility of contamination, will provide an easier cleanup compared to an empty pool
- **Turn off the power.**
Circuit breakers at the main electrical panel should be turned off to prevent pump motors, lighting, chlorinators, heaters, and other electrical components from operating during the storm²⁵. If possible, disconnect these devices and store them in a dry place.
- **Protect electric pool equipment.**
Wrap the pool pump, time clock, light transformers, pool heaters, and other electrical components with waterproof plastic. Tie securely in place to prevent sand and water from entering
- **Add extra chlorine to the pool.**
To prevent contamination from debris and excessive storm water, add chlorine pool shock. It's also a good idea to add the correct dose of Algae Control to quickly eliminate organic contaminants that enter the water. Always read and follow all product label instructions for best results.
- **Don't cover the pool.**
Hurricanes can cause falling branches and other flying debris that may damage pool covers. It's easier to remove debris from the pool than it is to replace a cover. Keep the cover off the pool to prevent unwanted damage and avoid dealing with a difficult removal, which may result from the cover being full of heavy water and debris
- **Remove loose items.**
Chairs, tables, pool toys, and other loose items can become dangerous projectiles in high winds. It’s best to store them inside, away from the storm. Never put objects in the pool to protect them from a storm. Not only can this damage the objects, but it can cause serious metal staining problems in your pool water.

**After the Hurricane**

- **Remove any debris from the pool.**
Before running the pump, use a skimmer net or a leaf rake to remove any leaves, twigs, dirt, or other debris from the pool surface and floor. This will prevent clogging the suction lines and damaging the pump.
- **Turn on the power and check the equipment.**
After removing any plastic wrapping from the equipment, turn on the power at the circuit breakers and check if everything is working properly. If you notice any signs of damage or malfunction, contact a professional pool service company for repairs.
- **Test and balance the water chemistry.**
Use a test kit or test strips to check the pH, chlorine, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and stabilizer levels of your pool water. Adjust them as needed according to the manufacturer's instructions or consult a pool expert for guidance. You may need to shock your pool again or use other chemicals to restore water clarity and sanitation.
- **Enjoy your pool again!**
Once your pool is clean and safe, you can resume swimming and having fun in your backyard oasis.

Hurricane season can be stressful for pool owners, but with proper preparation and care, you can minimize the impact of storms on your pool and enjoy it all year round. For more tips on how to maintain your pool or for professional pool service, contact us today! We are a trusted pool service company serving Boca Raton and surrounding areas since 1996. We offer quality workmanship, affordable prices, and customer satisfaction guaranteed!

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