Storm Pool Care: Expert Tips from The Pool Shop Group for Your Pool!

Stormy weather can really wreak havoc on your cherished backyard pool. Heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding can mess with your pool's cleanliness, chemistry, and overall condition. Don't let Mother Nature catch you off guard! Whether you're an experienced pool owner or a new one, we’ve got your back with comprehensive tips on how to prepare, treat, and rejuvenate your pool before, during, and after a storm.

Understanding How Rain Affects Your Pool

Rain might seem harmless, but it can impact your pool in several ways. Firstly, heavy rainfall can dilute the chlorine levels in your pool, leading to imbalances in water chemistry. This means that harmful bacteria and algae can grow more easily. Secondly, rainwater can introduce dirt, debris, and contaminants into your pool, making it dirty and unsafe for swimming.

To put it simply, rain can alter the chemical makeup of your pool water and introduce a range of materials that can clog filters, stain surfaces, and result in more work for you later. For those living in areas prone to heavy storms, understanding these effects can save you a lot of hassle and keep your pool sparkling clean.

Preparing Your Pool Before Rain

Preparation is key to protecting your pool from storm damage. Here are some proactive steps you can take to prep your pool for impending rain:

1. Check Water Levels: Make sure your pool water level is optimal. If heavy rains are on the forecast, you might want to lower it slightly to accommodate excess rainwater. Too much water can lead to overflow and flooding.

   
   

2. Clean Your Pool: Before the rain hits, do a thorough cleaning. Skim off leaves and debris and vacuum the bottom. This reduces the chances of contaminants stirring up during and after the rain.

   
   

3. Balance Your Chemicals: Ensure your pool water is properly balanced before the rain arrives. Focus on stabilising pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels. This makes it harder for algae to thrive when rainwater dilutes chlorine levels.

   
   

4. Remove Accessories: Take out any floats, toys, or other items that can be blown away or damaged. Not only will this help protect these items, but it will make cleaning easier when the storm passes.

   
   

During the Storm: What to Do

While it may feel like there's little you can do once the rain begins, there are still a few steps to consider:

1. Monitor the Weather: Keep an eye on weather reports. This will help you ascertain when it’s safe to go outside and take the necessary actions for your pool post-storm.

   
   

2. Check for Damage: If it's safe to do so, assess your pool area during the storm for any immediate hazards like fallen branches or debris that might end up in your pool. Be careful, though! Safety should always come first.

   
   

3. Avoid Swimming: Swimming during a storm or heavy rain is a definite no-no! Lightning poses a massive risk to those in and around water, so it's better to play it safe.

   
   

Treating Your Pool After the Rain

Once the storm has cleared and the sun is shining again, it's time to take action! Here are the steps you need to take to treat your pool after heavy rain:

1. Remove Debris: Start by skimming off debris, leaves, and twigs that might have landed in your pool during the storm. Fallen branches can introduce dirt and bacteria, so it’s crucial to clear the surface as much as possible.

2. Test Your Water: Next, you'll want to test your water chemistry. Rain can severely affect the pH and chlorine levels, so check the following:

• pH Levels: Ideally, pH should be between 7 and 7.4.

• Chlorine Levels: You may need to add more chlorine to kill bacteria that may have washed into the pool.

• Alkalinity and Calcium Hardness: Test for these levels too and adjust as needed.

  
  

  Don't forget, our team at your local The Pool Shop Group Store is here to help! We offer free water tests in-store.

  
  

Find Your Nearest The Pool Shop Group Store Here!

3. Shock Your Pool: After a heavy rain, shocking your pool can help restore the balance. Use a chlorine shock or a non-chlorine shock, depending on your preference. This will help to kill bacteria that may have been introduced during the rain.

4. Run Your Filter: Get your filter running to help clear out any contaminants, and keep it running for a little longer than normal (depending on how bad the storm was). This will help improve water clarity and cleanliness.

5. Brush the Walls: Algae can thrive after a storm due to unstable chemicals and debris. Brush the walls, steps, and floor of the pool to dislodge any potential growth.

6. Check Equipment: Lastly, take the time to inspect your pool equipment. Check for any damage to pumps, filters, and other machinery. Storms can cause debris damage or equipment malfunctions, so repairing issues before they become a bigger problem is essential.

Enjoy Your Safe and Clean Pool

Once all these steps are completed, you can finally relax and enjoy your pool with confidence. Pool maintenance may seem daunting, especially after a storm, but following these simple tips will keep your pool in excellent shape year-round.

Embrace the beauty of your pool—storms may come and go, but with these tips, you are now armed and ready to handle whatever weather life throws at you!

About The Pool Shop Group

The Pool Shop Group has been a trusted name in pool maintenance and services since 2008. With locations across Perth, we provide expert advice, high-quality pool products, and reliable repair services. Whether you’re a first-time pool owner or a seasoned expert, our knowledgeable team is here to support you every step of the way.