hurricane pool prep: what every pool owner should know before and after a storm

Hurricane Pool Prep: What Every Pool Owner Should Know Before and After a Storm

In South Florida, hurricane season is something all homeowners must prepare for—and if you own a pool, it’s especially important to take extra precautions. At Sparkling Pools Service & Repair, we want to make sure your pool is protected before the storm and properly restored after.

Below are essential tips pool owners should follow both before and after a hurricane.

▢ Before the Hurricane

Do not drain your pool
It may seem logical to drain water from the pool to prevent overflow, but this can actually cause damage. When the ground becomes saturated with rainwater, it can create hydrostatic pressure beneath your pool shell, which may cause it to pop or crack. Always keep the water in.

Turn off all pool equipment
Power surges or flooding can damage your pump, filter, heater, chlorinator, and lights. Shut off all electrical breakers that control your pool equipment.

Remove pool accessories—but do not throw furniture in the pool
Take in pool toys, floats, umbrellas, skimmer lids, and outdoor furniture. Do not throw patio furniture into the pool—this can crack your surface, damage tiles, and cause staining. Store or secure everything indoors instead.

Balance the water chemistry
Shock your pool and adjust pH and chlorine levels. Add algaecide to help prevent algae growth while the system is down. Properly treated water is less likely to become contaminated from rain and debris.

Secure or remove the pool cover
If you have a safety cover, make sure it’s tightly anchored. If your cover is not designed for storm protection, it’s best to remove it completely to prevent damage or loss.

Trim surrounding trees and shrubs
Branches and plants around the pool can break and fall into the water or damage the pool deck and enclosure. Trim them ahead of the storm.

✔️ Pro Tip: Stock up on pool chemicals in advance
After a hurricane, stores may be closed or out of stock. Be sure to have the following on hand:

• Liquid chlorine or shock
• Algaecide
• Pool test strips or a drop test kit
• Clarifier
• Skimmer socks or a fine mesh net

Click here to download the printable Hurricane Pool Prep Checklist (PDF)

▢ After the Hurricane

Inspect the area and pool equipment
Before turning your pool system back on, check for visible signs of damage such as cracks, debris in the equipment area, and exposed wiring. If you're unsure, call our team and we’ll safely inspect everything for you.

Remove large debris first
Use a leaf net or skimmer to remove large branches, leaves, and debris. Do not use your vacuum or automatic cleaner until the larger debris is cleared.

Clean or backwash your filter
Hurricanes often introduce fine particles into your pool. Be sure to clean or backwash your filter before restarting the pump.

Test and rebalance water chemistry
Storms can throw off your chemical balance. Test your water as soon as possible and adjust pH, chlorine, alkalinity, and stabilizer levels.

Run the pool system continuously
Once the system is safe to operate, run it for at least 24 to 48 hours to help restore water clarity and proper circulation.

▢ Need Help After the Storm?

At Sparkling Pools Service & Repair, we offer:

• Post-storm pool cleanups
• Equipment inspections
• Chemical testing and balancing
• Filter cleaning and pump maintenance

Call us at 305-823-5438 or request service online and let us help you get your pool back in shape.

Stay safe this hurricane season—and know we’re here when you need us.

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