Have you heard the news? Typhoon Songda remnants fueling the most powerful of three storms set to hit Metro Vancouver beginning tomorrow. 

Although you can't predict how severe the weather will get, you can be ready at all times to help protect your swimming pool from damage. 

There is no way to completely keep debris out of your pool, but you should be mindful of the necessary steps it takes to prevent as much damage as possible. Storms with high winds and strong rainfall can bring dirt and debris into your pool, while flooding can increase the amount of contaminants like mud, silt, and bacteria. To help prevent unnecessary damage, here’s a list of recommendations that should help you protect your swimming pool over the next few days:

1. Do NOT Remove the Water From Your Pool

Your first natural instinct might be to remove the water from your pool to prevent flooding and contamination. We're here to tell you not to. Removing the water from your pool leaves your pool walls and floor unprotected. Large debris can cause scratches and dents to the pool walls. In some cases, your pool can literally “pop” out of the ground. The underground water tables rises during storms and floods and without water in your pool, the pool can rise on that water table. By keeping the water in your pool, your pool will stay in place and be a little easier to clean up.

2. Turn Power OFF on Pool Equipment

It’s very likely that your pump, motor, filter, or control system may come in contact with large amounts of water during a storm. It's important that you take the time to protect your equipment by turning the power off. You'll want to turn off the circuit breakers to all pool equipment including the pump, motor, filter, chlorinator, heater, and lighting fixtures. This prevents any electrical issues that may occur from excessive water exposure.

3. Remove Outdoor Furniture and Debris

Freestanding objects are likely to be blown or carried away amidst a storm, potentially damaging your pool, car, or home. If you have time before a storm approaches, remove furniture, toys, and any other objects that may be dangerous during a storm.

4. Trim Branches From Surrounding Trees

You won’t have time to trim your branches before every storm, however, if time does allow, we highly recommend you trim the trees in the areas surrounding your home and pool. Trimming and removing branches drastically reduces the chance of serious injuries and/or damages.

5. Check and Balance Water Chemistry

During a storm, it is inevitable that your pool water will become contaminated with dirt and debris. Balancing your pool water and adding an algae controller prior to a storm will save you a lot in damage control after the storm. Adding an algaecide eliminates the majority of organic contaminants that blow into your pool. Any other contaminants remaining in your pool can be removed by shocking your pool once the storm subsides

6. Do NOT Cover Your Pool 

Although your first instinct may be to throw a winter or safety cover over your pool, we highly recommend that you don't! Putting a cover on may actually cause more damage. High winds can cause your cover to lift up off of the ground, defeating its purpose altogether. By putting a cover on your pool, it also leaves your cover vulnerable to sharp, flying objects. Balancing your pool water after the storm is a lot cheaper than replacing the entire pool cover. Not to mention, you won’t have to deal with trying to remove a cover full of water and debris (that in itself is a win)!

7. After the Storm

After the storm has cleared and you’re ready to address your pool’s damage, the first thing you want to do is remove any debris from your pool. This helps decrease contamination and prevents the pool from staining. Make sure to check and balance your water chemistry. Balance water pH or shock your pool and then run your pool filter until the water becomes clear. Do not allow anyone to use the pool during this time.

Although it may be tempting to drain your pool, again please don't. Be sure to check your pool equipment for any damages. Let your motor dry off for at least 24 hours before running it. Once everything dries, check your electrical system and power on equipment. If in doubt, do not hesitate to call us to inspect your equipment.

Have any questions about preparing your pool for this storm? Give us a call and speak with one our technicians.