Consider this scenario:

After a powerful summer monsoon, a relentless autumn hurricane, or a serene yet challenging winter snowstorm, your durable pool stands ready for your therapeutic touch. It understands that post-storm pool maintenance is more than routine upkeep – it’s a meticulous revival ensuring its structure and equipment remain in top-notch condition.

We cordially invite you to explore the professional approach to post-storm pool maintenance with us. Each step is a practical and essential action meticulously designed for optimal results. The outcome isn’t just renewal; it’s a comprehensive revitalization, inviting you to relish your fully refreshed backyard oasis.

Check Your Water Level 

In the aftermath of a storm, the thought of draining your pool to remove the rainwater may cross your mind. However, this seemingly straightforward action can have severe consequences. 

When there’s heavy rainfall, the water table beneath your pool can surge dramatically, exerting considerable pressure on the pool’s structural integrity. It’s important to note that the water inside your pool is a crucial counterbalance to this pressure stemming from the rising water table. 

Thus, if you choose to drain your pool, there’s a real risk of the entire pool shifting above ground level due to the heightened ground pressure.

Nevertheless, if your pool’s water level surpasses the skimmer line, partial drainage is a viable solution to restore it to the appropriate level without jeopardizing its stability.

Clearing Debris from Your Pool

Once you’ve managed the water level, it’s time to dive into the cleaning process. Start using a skimmer or a leaf net to gently and methodically remove any visible debris from the pool’s surface. Please pay close attention to leaves, twigs, and other items that may have entered the water.

Next, take your trusty pool brush and put in some elbow grease. Carefully scrub every nook and cranny of the pool’s interior, including the floor and walls. This step is crucial for dislodging dirt and contaminants that might have adhered to the pool’s surfaces.

Finally, it’s time to tackle the finer particles. You can manually vacuum the pool or set your automatic cleaner to execute an entire cleaning cycle. However, if there’s a substantial amount of settled debris on the pool floor, it’s advisable to start with vacuuming. This prevents the particles from getting stirred up and dispersed around the pool as you brush, ensuring a more effective cleaning process.

Maintaining Skimmer and Pump Baskets

As you prepare to restart the swimming pool pump, take a moment to inspect and empty the skimmer and pump strainer baskets carefully. These baskets serve as vital components in your pool’s filtration system.

Inspecting them allows you to identify and remove any debris or obstructions that might have accumulated during the cleaning process. 

You optimize water flow through the pump and filter by ensuring clear baskets. This, in turn, ensures that your pool’s filtration system operates at its peak efficiency, guaranteeing thorough cleaning and pristine water quality.

Inspecting Your Pool Equipment

Before cleaning or turning your plumbing system back on, follow a thorough equipment inspection process. This involves carefully checking the plumbing lines, unions, and electrical parts. Look for any signs of water damage near the pump motor and examine the pipes for leaks or damage.

If you encounter any issues, particularly those related to electrical components, promptly contact a certified pool professional. This step ensures that your pool equipment operates safely and efficiently, meeting the industry’s standards and safety guidelines.

Clean or Backwash the Filter

Suppose you’ve visually confirmed that your filter and pump are in good working condition and free from apparent damage. In that case, it’s time to look closer at the filter before resuming regular pool system operations. Here’s a more straightforward guide:

For Sand or D.E. Filters: Start a backwash. This process involves reversing the water flow to dislodge trapped debris. Continue backwashing until the water runs clear, keeping an eye on the pressure gauge to monitor progress.

For Cartridge Filters:

1. Carefully remove the filter cartridges and thoroughly clean them. You can use a hose or a specialized cartridge cleaning solution to remove accumulated dirt.
2. Pay attention to the pleats and surfaces of each cartridge.
3. Consider replacing if any cartridge is damaged, worn out, or difficult to clean effectively.

After you’ve completed the filter maintenance and it’s back in top shape, proceed to restart the pump and filter system. Let the pump and filter run for a while to ensure comprehensive cleaning and efficient circulation of your pool water, contributing to water clarity and hygiene.

Balancing and Refreshing Your Pool Water

After cleaning debris and thoroughly checking the plumbing, it’s time to ensure your pool water is just right. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

• Total Alkalinity (TA): Start by adjusting the Total Alkalinity level. Keep it in the 80–120 parts per million (ppm) range. This helps stabilize the pH level and prevents quick pH swings.

• pH Level: Next, focus on the pH level. Aim for a pH range between 7.4 and 7.6. Maintaining the proper pH is crucial for comfortable swimming and preventing equipment damage.

• Calcium Hardness: After pH, look at the Calcium Hardness level. Keep it within 200–400 ppm. This ensures your water won’t corrode surfaces or cause scaling on equipment.

• Cyanuric Acid: Lastly, deal with Cyanuric Acid, keeping it in the 30–50 ppm range. It acts as a stabilizer, reducing chlorine loss due to sunlight.

Use the provided chart handy while you balance your pool’s water chemistry. This will ensure your pool water is comfortable, clear, and safe for swimming.

Sanitizing Your Pool Water

Once you’ve balanced the chemicals, it’s time to make sure your pool water is clean and safe. Storms can introduce bacteria and contaminants into your pool, even if it looks clean. A final pool shock treatment would be best to get your pool in top shape.

Here’s how to do it:

• Add cal-hypo or dichlor shock to the water until chlorine levels reach 10.0 parts per million (ppm). This high chlorine level will eliminate any remaining bacteria and organic contaminants like algae.

• After shocking, it’s essential to wait until the Free Available Chlorine (FAC) level drops to the ideal range of 2.0–4.0 ppm before you can safely swim in the pool.

Always follow the instructions on the chemical labels when balancing your pool water and applying pool shock to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Allow the Pump & Filter to Achieve Crystal-Clear Water

Once you’ve handled debris removal, thoroughly cleaned the pool, and ensured water sanitation, it’s time to let your pump and filter take the reins. This phase is about patience and letting these essential components do their job.

The duration of operation for your pump and filter depends on how dirty your pool became due to the storm. In more heavily affected cases, you may need to maintain continuous circulation and filtration for at least 24 hours, if not longer, to restore water clarity fully.

Consider incorporating a water clarifier into the process for an added boost and a speedier recovery. A water clarifier helps trap and remove tiny particles, making your pool water look even more clear and inviting.

In Conclusion

Caring for your pool following a storm is essential for the pool’s well-being and the safety and pleasure of its users. Here are some critical steps to consider:

• Safety First: Always prioritize safety when dealing with a post-storm pool. Ensure the area is safe from hazards, such as fallen branches or electrical issues, before cleaning or maintenance.

• Prompt Debris Removal: Act quickly to remove debris from the pool to prevent damage and maintain water clarity. This includes leaves, branches, and any other debris the storm may have brought in.

• Water Chemistry Balance: Regularly check and balance the pool’s water chemistry. This involves maintaining appropriate levels of chemicals like chlorine, pH, and alkalinity to ensure the water is safe and comfortable for swimming.

• Equipment Inspection: Regularly inspect your pool equipment, including pumps, filters, and skimmers, for any signs of damage or wear. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage and maintain efficient pool operation.

Following these steps and providing your pool with proper care and attention, you can keep it a refreshing and enjoyable oasis, even after a powerful storm.