Storms can wreak havoc on outdoor areas, and swimming pools are no exception. Whether it’s a light summer squall or a full-blown thunderstorm, post-storm pool maintenance is essential for ensuring the safety, cleanliness, and longevity of your pool. Neglecting to properly care for your pool after stormy weather may lead to algae blooms, equipment issues, and poor water quality that render it unsafe for use. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn the proper steps to restore your swimming pool to ideal condition after a storm, and how to stay ahead of potential damages with preventative care.
Assess the Damage Before You Begin
Before jumping into cleaning the pool, it’s important to visually inspect your pool area for potential damage both underwater and above the surface. Storms can bring down trees, branches, and debris, which may damage the pool structure, liner, covers, or equipment.
- Check for cracks or dents in the pool walls or floor.
- Inspect the pool coping and decking for shifted tiles or splintered wood.
- Be sure the pool’s electric components (filters, pumps, lights) have not been submerged or damaged by rainwater or falling debris.
If you’re uncertain about any structural damage or electrical issues, it’s best to contact a professional pool service immediately.
Turn Off Electrical Equipment
One of the most crucial safety protocol after a storm: turn off power to the pool equipment. This includes pool heaters, pumps, lighting units, and any automatic cleaners or chlorinators. If water or humidity has affected electrical outlets or breaker boxes, this step prevents shocks or electrocution.
Wait for the Area to Dry if Necessary
If the pool deck or electrical area is wet from rain, let it dry completely before inspecting or touching any connections. Always use protective gear and dry hands before handling breakers or pool equipment.
Remove Large Debris and Algae
Once safety hazards are addressed, the next priority is debris removal. Storms often toss sticks, leaves, dirt, and even sand into the pool. Remove larger items with a net or skimmer before they sink to the bottom or clog filters.
Effective Debris Removal Tips
- Use a leaf net to scoop large debris as quickly as possible.
- Prioritize floating debris first; these can contribute to water discoloration and imbalance.
- For items that sink, use a pool vacuum or manually brush the floor of the pool.
After large debris is removed, check for signs of algae growth. Storm water often lowers sanitizer levels, and organic matter like leaves feeds algae.
Balance the Water Chemistry
Storm water can significantly alter your pool’s chemical balance by diluting sanitizers, lowering pH, and affecting alkalinity. Begin by testing your water using a high-quality test kit or digital water tester.
Key Pool Chemicals to Test After a Storm:
| Chemical | Recommended Range | Post-Storm Action |
|---|---|---|
| Free Chlorine | 1 – 3 ppm | Significantly low levels will require shock dosing (3 to 5 times normal chlorine levels). |
| pH | 7.2 – 7.6 | Use sodium carbonate to raise pH if lowered due to rainwater. |
| Total Alkalinity | 80 – 120 ppm | If alkalinity is off, adjust gradually with baking soda or muriatic acid. |
| Cyanuric Acid (Stabilizer) | 30 – 50 ppm | Excessive water dilution may require adding stabilizer to preserve chlorine efficacy. |
Shocking Your Pool Post-Storm
Due to the influx of contaminants from storm runoff, pool shocking is crucial after major weather events. Use a non-chlorine or chlorine-based shock treatment depending on your normal maintenance routine. Allow water to circulate well for 24 hours afterwards, and re-test the water before swimming.
Deep Clean the Pool Surface
After debris removal and sanitization, it’s time to give your pool a deep scrubbing. Use a high-quality pool brush to work the walls and steps. If the pool deck was directly affected by rain, clean that as well to prevent any harmful bacteria or slip-risk from residual moisture.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
- Brush the walls and floor: Eliminate any stubborn algae or discolored spots.
- Scrub the tile line: Storm debris can leave waterline stains or residue from pollen and oils.
- Vacuum the pool: Even after shocking and brushing, microscopic debris can still be suspended or settled on the bottom.
Rinse or Backwash the Filter System
Storm activity often brings excessive organic matter into pool water. This can clog your filter faster than expected. After initial cleaning, check your filter pressure system to see if it’s performing correctly.
| Filter Type | Post-Storm Treatment |
|---|---|
| Cartridge Filter | Spray out debris using a garden hose and let it dry before reinserting. |
| Sand Filter | Backwash until the water runs clear, then rinse cycle briefly before resuming filter mode. |
| DE (Diatomaceous Earth) Filter | Backwash and then re-charge the filter with DE powder as needed to maintain filtration efficiency. |
Make sure all valves and filters are flushed and functioning properly to avoid poor circulation.
Run the Pump for Sufficient Time
After treating the water and cleaning the pool thoroughly, ensure you run your pump for at least 8–12 hours a day, especially for several days post-storm. This helps to:
- Circulate the added chemicals evenly.
- Prevent stagnation which promotes algae regrowth.
- Continue filtering out residual dirt and debris.
Check Pool Accessories and Equipment
Pools typically come with a host of accessories: skimmers, timers, saltwater chlorine generators, pool covers, ladders, and diving boards. A storm could have affected any of these.
What to Inspect:
| Accessory | Post-Storm Inspection Tips |
|---|---|
| Pool Cover | Look for tears, wear, and check if it’s securely fastened before removal. |
| Skimmer Basket | Ensure it’s free of leaves and cleaned before the next circulation cycle. |
| Pool Heater | Ensure it’s dry and free of any damage before restart. |
| Chlorine Floater | Clean it and refill with appropriately sized chlorine tablets post-treatment. |
Replace or repair any broken components and reset digital settings for automatic pool cleaners or timers.
Watch for Signs of Algae and Bacterial Infiltration
Even after post-storm treatments, you should monitor your pool for any regrowth of algae or bacterial outbreaks. Algae can return within 24–48 hours if circulation and chemical balance are not properly maintained.
Signs That Your Pool May Have Contamination:
- Murky or cloudy water
- Slippery spots on the sides or floor
- Green, brown, or black color forming on surfaces
- Clogged filters despite backwashing
If you suspect a serious algae problem or contamination, consider using an algaecide or clarifier to supplement chlorine shock.
Prevent Damage from Future Storms with Proactive Care
Regular storm preparedness can help minimize damage and make post-storm clean-up much easier.
Recommended Storm Prep Tips:
| Preparation | Action |
|---|---|
| Pool Covers | Use a high-quality safety or winter cover to keep debris out during severe weather or off-season storage. |
| Chemical Balance | Before storms, ensure pool water is well-balanced to resist sudden pH or contamination changes. |
| Clean Decks & Surroundings | Clear the surrounding area of lightweight debris and dead branches to prevent wind-borne fallout. |
| Water Level | If expecting heavy rainfall, lower the water level slightly to allow excess runoff without overflow. |
After severe storms or hurricanes, some pool owners choose to close their pools temporarily until after weather systems have passed or the area is safe to clean again. Using automatic safety covers or mesh covers can offer additional protection without trapping water and sunlight.
When to Call a Professional Pool Service
While many tasks can be completed DIY-style, some signs demand expert help immediately:
- Cracks or bulges in the pool walls
- Unexplained water loss
- Pooling of water in the yard or around equipment
- Persistent algae or water quality issues after multiple treatments
A certified pool professional can conduct more thorough diagnostics, especially if filtration or circulation issues persist after standard maintenance.
Conclusion: Regular Maintenance Can Prevent Emergency Clean-ups
Taking care of your pool after a storm can be time-consuming, but it’s necessary for maintaining a clean, safe, and functional swimming environment. The process, though detailed, becomes easier if you’ve followed regular maintenance practices beforehand. By keeping your chemical levels balanced, cleaning your pool consistently, and protecting it during storms, you can reduce the impact of weather and enjoy a faster, smoother recovery after storm season.
Staying on top of post-storm maintenance ensures you’re always one step ahead of potential damage, helping your pool remain inviting season after season without costly repairs or disruptions.
Final Steps You Should Take:
- Assess damage and turn off power immediately.
- Remove debris and drain excessive rainwater.
- Check and adjust pool chemistry post-storm, including chlorine, pH, and alkalinity.
- Deep clean, scrub, and vacuum pool surfaces.
- Rinse or backwash filters appropriately.
- Run the pool pump to maintain circulation for at least a full day.
- Inspect accessories, covers, and electrical components for any damage.
- Look for signs of algae or poor water clarity in the days following the storm.
- If problems persist, consult with a certified pool maintenance expert.
By following this guide, you’re fully equipped to handle storm-related pool disruptions—responsibly, efficiently, and safely.
Why is it important to check the pool’s water level after a storm?
After a storm, the water level in your pool can rise significantly due to heavy rainfall or fall if there was significant wind evaporation or overflow. High water levels can hinder the pool’s filtration system and cause damage to pool equipment or surrounding decking. Additionally, excess water can dilute the chemicals in your pool, making it harder to maintain the correct balance and sanitation levels.
On the other hand, if the water level has dropped, the skimmer may not function properly and the pump could run dry, which can lead to overheating and permanent damage. It’s important to check the water level before turning equipment on and make adjustments if needed. If the level is too high, you may need to use a submersible pump to lower it to the recommended level, which is typically halfway up the skimmer opening.
What steps should I take to remove debris from the pool after a storm?
Begin by removing large debris like branches, leaves, and trash with a skimmer net to prevent clogging the filter or causing damage to the pool pump. For objects resting on the pool floor, use a leaf rake or your hands (while wearing gloves) to collect them before vacuuming. If the storm has left a large amount of debris floating on the surface, it may be helpful to use a leaf blower to gently push the debris toward the skimmer or edge for easier removal.
After removing the bulk of the debris, run the skimmer and manually skim any small particles or insects that remain. If your pool has a robotic or automatic cleaner, you may use that to assist with finishing the job. Taking time to properly remove debris not only improves the appearance of your pool but also protects the filtration system and reduces the risk of algae growth caused by organic material sitting in the water.
How should I handle chemical imbalances caused by stormwater?
Stormwater can heavily disrupt the chemical balance of your pool, introducing contaminants and diluting sanitizer levels such as chlorine. Begin by testing the water using a reliable test kit or strips to determine the levels of pH, alkalinity, chlorine, and cyanuric acid. If necessary, adjust these levels gradually to bring them back into the recommended range—usually pH between 7.4 and 7.6, and chlorine around 1–3 ppm.
Once the preliminary adjustments are made, consider performing a shock treatment to eliminate any bacteria or algae that may have entered the pool during the storm. Choose a shock that is appropriate for your pool type and follow instructions carefully to avoid over-treatment. It’s also wise to wait until the debris has been mostly removed before adding chemicals to ensure they work effectively and aren’t consumed by contaminants.
What should I do if my pool has turned green after a storm?
A green pool after a storm is typically a sign of algae growth, which thrives in stagnant or improperly balanced water. Start by running the pump continuously to circulate the water and improve filtration. Shock the pool with a high dose of chlorine or a non-chlorine shock if you have a saltwater system, and consider using an algaecide to target the specific type of algae causing the discoloration.
Brush the walls and floor of the pool thoroughly to loosen any algae clinging to surfaces. Next, clean or backwash the filter as the system will be under strain from the excessive algae. It may take several days of consistent brushing, shocking, and filtering to restore the clarity of the water. Once the water begins to clear, rebalance the chemicals to stabilize conditions and prevent future algae blooms.
How do I inspect the pool equipment after a storm?
Begin by visually inspecting all pool equipment, including the pump, filter, heater, and saltwater system if applicable. Look for signs of water damage, corrosion, or any debris that may have entered the machinery. Before turning any equipment on, ensure that all components are completely dry and free of standing water, especially around motor areas and electrical connections.
If the equipment was submerged or malfunctioning, it’s best to have a licensed technician inspect and service it before restarting. Improper operation of damaged equipment can lead to electrical hazards or further damage. Reset circuit breakers if tripped, and test equipment one component at a time to ensure everything is functioning properly. Regular post-storm checks help maintain the longevity of your pool system and keep the pool running efficiently.
What safety precautions should I consider before resuming pool use after a storm?
Before allowing anyone to use the pool, ensure that all safety hazards have been addressed. This includes checking for structural damage such as cracks in the pool deck, broken tiles, or compromised fencing. If any part of the pool area poses a physical risk, restrict access until repairs are completed. Also, ensure that all electrical systems around the pool—like underwater lights or timers—are dry and functioning correctly.
Another key safety step is verifying that the water is clean and chemically balanced. Never allow swimming until chlorine or sanitizer levels are within the safe range and the water is free of visible debris and discoloration. It’s better to wait an extra day of filtration and chemical adjustment than risk health issues from improperly sanitized water. Providing clean and structurally sound conditions ensures safe and enjoyable pool use after storm recovery.
How can I prevent future storm damage to my pool?
Investing in proper pool maintenance before storms can significantly reduce potential damage. Regularly check and maintain proper chemical levels, ensure the filtration system is working efficiently, and keep the surrounding area clear of loose items or vegetation that could become projectiles during high winds. Using a sturdy pool cover can also help reduce debris accumulation and water level fluctuations during storms.
Consider installing ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to protect against electrical hazards and backflow preventers to stop contaminated water from entering your pool system. Having a professional inspection before storm season can identify and fix potential vulnerabilities. Lastly, creating a checklist of storm-preparation steps will help you act quickly and efficiently in the event of severe weather, minimizing damage and saving time in recovery.