According to the Associated Swimming Pool Industries of Florida, a local group of swimming pool builders, service companies, wholesale distributors andmanufacturers, you should take the following steps to protect your pool in the event of a hurricane:
Before the Storm
There is no need to lower your pool's water level. The pool may overflow if there is an excess of rainfall. However, it should not create a threat to your home. A patio or grassy area would probably create the same level of flooding. Never completely drain your pool! If you do lower the water level, be sure to close your skimmer valve to prevent damage to the pump when the power is turned on.
Turn off all electrical power to the swimming pool. This includes power to the pump, motor, lighting, chlorinators, etc.
If your filter pump is in an unsheltered area, have the motor removed and stored or wrap it with a waterproof membrane or plastic bag and tie it securely in place to prevent debris and driving water from entering the motor. Tie down the pump box lid, if present.
Remove all loose items from the pool area. It is not advisable to throw patio furniture or accessories into the pool. Furniture may chip and damage the pool finish and the chemicals in the water will have an adverse effect on the furniture.
Add extra chlorine to the pool to prevent contamination. The water in your pool can provide a handy source of water for washing and flushing if your house water supply fails.
Remove and store any removable child safety fences. Install the fence deck caps.
After the Storm
Replace any child safety fences. Store the deck caps for future use.
Do not empty the pool. High ground water can cause structural damage to an empty pool by causing it to pop (float) out of the ground.
Superchlorinate the pool water. Remove as much of the organic debris (leaves, etc.) with a rake and skimmer as soon as possible as it rapidly consumes chlorine. When the chlorine residual returns to normal, test the water for proper balance. Heavy rain upsets mineral balance needed for the protection of your equipment and pool finish.
Remove all debris from pool with a rake and skimmer before re-starting the system to prevent clogged lines.
Some chemical feeders require special care before starting the pump motor.
Remove any wrapping around the pump motor. If the motor has been submerged, it should be removed for professional cleaning and drying out. If the pump has remained dry, turn on the electricity.
Check to make certain the pump is operating normally and that the water is circulating in the pool. Reset time clocks to show the correct time of day.
Run the filter until water is crystal clear and resume normal pool operation.
10770 WEST OAKLAND PARK BOULEVARD