Be in the Know About Protecting Your Pool During a Storm

Like all aspects of your home and property, protecting your pool is part of being a responsible homeowner. Unlike other assets, though, sometimes it’s hard to know what you can do to protect your pool from the harsh elements. Of course, proper pool maintenance is a significant part of the equation, but that’s not the only thing that you can do. Even though you can’t move it indoors to safety like you can your patio furniture, there are actually several things you can do to protect your pool during a storm. And part of knowing what to do includes realizing what you’re up against.

Rain or Shine

Of course, it would be impractical to cover your pool every time rain is predicted or even begins to fall. However, you do need to realize that even a light sprinkle will end up depositing impurities and algae into your pool water. To counteract those unwelcome additions, you’ll want to add an algaecide. Then when the sun comes back out, be sure to test your pool’s pH, clean it, and shock the pool if needed. The filter will then do its job to help get your chemical levels back in balance.

Water Levels

If you know a big storm is on its way, it can be helpful to lower the water level of your pool. Why, you may be wondering? The closer that the water level gets to the rim of the pool, the more contaminated it will become, as soil and other nearby elements easily become washed into the pool. You may want to discuss the best way to lower your water level for your specific pool and yard with your pool contractor or pool supply company. Sometimes a simple hose spigot or valve can be used, but using the wrong method for your pool can cause damage – which is obviously exactly what you’re trying to avoid!

Drainage Issues

If the structures surrounding your pool cause flooding of your pool, over time erosion will take place. Depending on the nature of the problem, there are many solutions that can be considered. You’ll want to hire a professional for this, so that damage does not occur. Often, this issue comes up based on the slope of the land combined with the deck construction. In that case, an effective solution is often a French drain. This kind of drain consists of a perforated pipe that’s underground, topped with gravel; the gravel and opening allow the water to seep into the pipe, which carries the water away. Often positioned around the perimeter of a home and used to protect its foundation, a French drain could also compromise the integrity of your pool.

Windy Weather

While water levels, contaminants, and drainage are definitely issues you need to be concerned about during a storm, wind is also among the elements from which you want to protect your pool. Your primary task when high winds are predicted is to make sure all furniture and other items that can be picked up and tossed by the wind are secured, lest they become weapons. After that, you want to keep the pool filter on; however, if the water level rises, you will want to protect the pool pump by turning it off. (You can do this from the safety of your home, if needed: simply flip the breaker.)

By taking some basic precautions, you can ensure that your pool will be able to withstand almost any storm that comes your way!

Lyon Financial

Since 1979 Lyon Financial has made the backyard resort dream come true for over 500,000 families across the U.S. Through our solid relationships with more than 3,000 pool contractors and our continued commitment to putting our clients first, we have built a reputation as the first choice in providing pool financing solutions. For more information, visit lyonfinancial.net or call (877) 754-5966 today.