The first of June is the official start of hurricane season, but as we know here in Northeast Florida, it arrived on Memorial Day Weekend when Tropical Storm Alberto made its way up the Gulf Coast of Florida. So no matter which way you look at it, there’s no avoiding this question — is your inground pool ready for hurricane season?
No need to fret or anxiously watch the weather forecast (well you may want to anyway but not because of your inground pool). SurfSide Pools has you covered. Courtesy of the Florida Swimming Pool Association, here are some key tips in protecting your pool for what is projected to be a very active tropical storm and hurricane season:
1. Do not drain your pool
Do not drain your pool before a storm. Keeping sufficient water levels in your pool provides the important weight to hold the concrete shell in the ground.
2. Super-chlorinate your inground pool before a storm
Before and after the storm it’s recommended to super-chlorinate the water in your pool.
3. Turn off the power to your pool
Before the storm hits, it’s important that all electric power be turned off at the circuit breakers. Any exposed electrical equipment, such as motors for the pumps, should be tightly covered with plastic wrap. If flooding is expected, disconnect and remove them.
4. Remove any loose objects around the pool
Remove any loose objects such as chairs, tables, pool equipment and even toys. These items can become weapons in high-wind storms. Do not throw your patio furniture in your pool or any other objects.
5. Protect your screens
Storms can cause ripped lanai screens that can be expensive to replace. This can possibly be avoided if you provide a “vent” for wind to escape through. Also, screen panels may be removed on either side of the pool area.
6. Clean out debris after the storm
After the storm use a “pool rake” or other net/skimming device to remove small debris from inside the pool. Do not use your regular pool vacuum equipment or pool pumps as they are likely to clog the plumbing.
7. Check before powering back up
Before touching any electrical equipment after the storm, be sure that everything is dry. Check circuit breakers to be sure they are off before attempting to reconnect electrical equipment such as pump motors. Inspect wiring for proper connections. If electric motors have been exposed to water, they should be checked by a professional.
8. Reset and get back to normal
Be sure clocks, timers, etc. have been properly reset and balance the water chemistry. Keep a close eye on your operating systems for a few days to ensure everything is in working order.
Take these steps and you can turn your storm preparation attention to the usual ritual of securing batteries, water and plywood. Better yet, let us help you. Our service technicians can ensure that your pool is protected during the storm and running smoothly all pool season long. Call us at 904-246-2666.