Hurricane season is upon us and poses a substantial threat to your house and property. Many homeowners may not realize that even your pool is susceptible to risks from a raging hurricane. It is too big of an investment to leave at risk. The good news is that you can do things to prepare your pool before a storm hits. These must-know tips will help ensure your pool is ready for this hurricane season.
Remove Loose Items
Loose items, such as chairs, tables, and umbrellas left around the pool are safety hazards waiting to happen. Not only will your accessories get damaged, but they may very well end up in your neighbor's yard or halfway across the county. This can cause property damage and even hurt someone. Secure loose pool items in a storage shed or basement before the storm begins. Do not leave it to chance that they will be okay. It is a bet you are sure to lose.
Set Up a Siphon Hose
Your first instinct may be to empty your pool of water so that you do not have to worry about it overflowing. This is not advisable because you need the weight to prevent the storm from lifting your pool out of the ground. Leave the water in the pool. Instead, set up a siphon hose that is easy to activate and will help alleviate drainage issues. Direct the water to an area of excellent drainage such as a rock bed or even a county drainage system if one is close enough.
Leave the Cover Off
Unfortunately, covering your pool will not prevent debris from getting in. Chances are flying limbs, rocks, sticks, etc., will puncture and rip the cover. This will damage your cover and allow unwanted objects in the pool anyway. You are better off leaving the pool cover off and storing it in a safe and dry location.
Shock Your Pool
In an effort to prevent as much contamination as possible from unwanted debris, you can shock your pool. If you choose this preventative method, do so at least several hours before the storm is expected to arrive so that it has time to circulate through. However, it is important to realize that this is not a guarantee that you won't have to treat your pool after the storm has passed as well.
Cut Off and Protect Electrical Equipment
Water and unprotected electrical equipment do not mesh well together. First, turn off the power supply to your pool. This includes pump, lighting, heaters, etc. It is an unnecessary hazard that you do not need to deal with during a hurricane. Secondly, protect your electrical equipment. Submersion in water or mud will likely render it useless. If possible, disconnect the equipment and store it in a dry place. If this isn't feasible, remove as much debris around it as you can and wrap the equipment in a waterproof material to shed away as much of the water, dirt, and debris as possible. Replacing electrical components can be costly.
Let Us Help After the Storm
Despite your best efforts to keep your pool pristine, hurricanes are unpredictable. Chances are good that you will need to top off or refill your pool completely because you had to drain it. This is where we come in! Davis Water Service is the leader in home water delivery. With over 30 years of experience, our water is sourced from the cleanest municipal water systems, ensuring you receive only the highest quality water available. Contact us today and get the water you need when you need it!