Storm-Proof a Pool: Best Practices Before During and After

a pool in Kentucky backyard with rain clouds, concept of Storm-Proof a Pool: Best Practices Before During and After

Essential Tips for Protecting Your Pool During a Storm in Kentucky

While Kentucky is not typically associated with hurricanes or tropical storms, the impacts of solid storm systems can still reach the region. Recent weather patterns show that even inland areas like Kentucky can experience remnants of these storms, so pool owners need to be prepared.

Storm-proofing your pool can save you from costly repairs, prevent contamination, and protect your investment from storm-related damage. In this “Storm-Proof a Pool: Best Practices Before During and After” guide, we’ll walk you through the best practices for protecting your pool before, during, and after a storm.


Understand the Risks

Before diving into how to storm-proof your pool, it’s essential to understand the risks that storms pose to pools in Kentucky. While you won’t experience the direct impact of hurricanes as coastal areas do, you can still face heavy rains, strong winds, debris, and localized flooding. Tropical storms and hurricane remnants that pass through can cause:

  • Debris contamination: Strong winds can blow leaves, branches, dirt, and other debris into your pool, clogging filters, dirtying the water, and damaging pool equipment.
  • Flooding: Excessive rainfall can cause your pool to overflow, contaminating the water and possibly causing chemical imbalances.
  • Power outages: Losing electricity during a storm means your pool pump and filtration system will be out of commission, allowing water to stagnate.
  • Structural damage: Heavy winds can throw outdoor furniture, tree branches, and other large objects into the pool, potentially damaging its lining or structure.


Pre-Storm Preparations

a pool with rain and clouds above

Preparing your pool for a storm begins with taking action before the weather hits. Here’s what Kentucky homeowners should do to minimize the risk of storm damage:


Do Not Drain Your Pool

A common misconception is that you should drain your pool before a storm to prevent flooding. However, this can cause more harm than good. Draining your pool increases the risk of it “popping” out of the ground due to the rising water table caused by heavy rains. The water in the pool also acts as a stabilizer, helping to prevent damage from debris and providing weight to keep the pool grounded.

Instead, leave your pool filled and monitor the water levels. If you’re concerned about overflowing, you can lower the water by 1 to 2 feet but never fully drain it.

Balance Your Pool Chemicals

Before the storm arrives, make sure your pool chemicals are correctly balanced. Optimal chlorine, pH, and alkalinity levels can help prevent algae growth and bacterial contamination from debris and dirty rainwater entering the pool.

Shock the Pool

Shocking your pool with chlorine a day or two before the storm can give it extra protection. The higher chlorine levels will help combat contaminants that enter the pool during the storm. Remember to check the chlorine levels after the storm and shock the pool again if necessary.

Turn Off Power to Pool Equipment

To protect your pool equipment, such as pumps, filters, heaters, and automatic cleaners, from power surges or water damage, turn off the power to these systems before the storm hits. Unplug any equipment that could be damaged by lightning or water. If your pool has a cover, it’s a good idea to remove or retract automatic pool covers, as they could become damaged by wind or flying debris.

Remove Loose Items

One of the most significant risks during a storm is wind-blown debris. To prevent damage to your pool and surrounding area, remove all loose items from your pool area. This includes patio furniture, pool toys, floats, and umbrellas. Secure or store them in a sheltered area to prevent them from being blown into your pool.

Consider Installing a Pool Cover

If you have a sturdy pool cover, consider using it to protect your pool from debris. However, be cautious with standard covers, as strong winds can cause them to tear or be blown away. If you don’t have a cover designed explicitly for storms, it’s better to leave your pool uncovered than risk damage to the cover and pool.


During the Storm

Once the storm begins, staying indoors and away from your pool is important. Lightning is a significant hazard, and standing water around the pool can become electrified. Here’s what to keep in mind during the storm:

  • Monitor the water level: If the storm produces heavy rainfall, check your pool’s water level periodically (from a safe distance). If your pool is nearly overflowing, you may need to use a submersible pump or siphon to remove some of the water.
  • Stay away from the pool: Do not go outside to check on your pool until the storm has passed. Lightning and debris are serious risks.


Post-Storm Cleanup and Recovery

Once the storm has passed, it’s time to assess any damage and begin the cleanup process. Here’s how to get your pool back in shape after the storm:


Inspect for Debris and Damage

Check your pool and the surrounding area for debris. Remove large items like branches, patio furniture, and toys that may have blown into the pool. A skimmer net removes smaller debris like leaves, dirt, and insects. Take extra care to inspect the pool’s equipment, such as the pump, filter, and heater, for any visible damage.

Restore Power to Pool Equipment

If your pool equipment was turned off or unplugged before the storm, inspect it for damage before turning it back on. Ensure the area around the equipment is dry and water-free before restoring power. Contact a pool professional for repairs if you need clarification or if the equipment appears damaged.

Test and Rebalance Water Chemistry

Storms can significantly affect the chemical balance of your pool water. Test the water for pH, chlorine, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels. You’ll likely need to shock the pool again to eliminate contaminants and restore proper sanitation.

Clean and Vacuum the Pool

After removing large debris, vacuum the pool to clean up smaller particles that may have settled on the bottom. If the storm introduced a lot of dirt and debris, it may take several passes to clean the pool thoroughly.

Check the Water Level

If your pool is nearly overflowing, you may need to drain some water to return it to the appropriate level. When draining, be cautious to avoid damaging the pool’s structural integrity or the surrounding yard.


Routine Maintenance and Future Storm Preparation

Regular maintenance is essential to keeping your pool in excellent condition. Kentucky homeowners should monitor weather reports, especially during hurricane season, and be prepared to implement these storm-proofing strategies whenever a major storm is forecasted. Investing in preventive maintenance and making repairs quickly after a storm can help extend the life of your pool.


Contact True Blue Pools for Storm-Proof Prep and Post-Storm Services

When a storm is on the horizon, it’s always best to be prepared. True Blue Pools offers storm preparation and post-storm services to ensure your pool stays safe and functional, no matter the weather.

Visit one of True Blue Pools’ three store locations in Lexington, Georgetown, and Richmond, Kentucky, to stock up on pool supplies and get expert advice on protecting your pool from storm damage. Whether you need help with pool maintenance, repairs, or storm cleanup, True Blue Pools has you covered.

Contact us here.

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a pool in Kentucky backyard with rain clouds, concept of Storm-Proof a Pool: Best Practices Before During and After