Storms with high winds, torrential rains, thunder and lightning can all interrupt your swim season and leave a mess of debris in your pool or spa. Below are some storm scenarios and basic steps for clean up and getting things back to normal and ready to swim.

Safety First: NEVER swim during a thunder or lightning storm! Seek shelter immediately. The National Lightning Safety Institute recommends to not re-enter the pool until at least 30 minutes after the last thunder is heard.

It is always best to be prepared. If you know a bad storm is on the way and have time to prepare, put away patio furniture, cushions, umbrellas, or tie them down if storage is unavailable.

But let's face it, some things cannot be avoided or planned for....

A common call we receive is that heavy rains have washed mulch into the pool or spa, making it a dark, dirty mess.

If the water is not clear and you cannot see the bottom of the pool - the first step is to turn off the pool system and let the debris settle to the bottom of the pool.

Once the debris has settled or you can see the bottom of the pool, start using the net to remove any large debris. The large debris can damage an automatic cleaner and the filter, so it is best to remove as much as possible.

The filter can be turned on now and continue by vacuuming as normal and using the automatic cleaner. You will need to empty the cleaner bag, filter basket, and skimmer baskets frequently for any other debris, as well as backwash to keep the filter pressure down until the water clears. Filtration and circulation will be key to clearing the water after the debris is removed as well as water chemistry testing and adjusting as needed.

For general storm debris, the same precautions can be taken.

- Remove any large debris using a pool net

- Vacuum and set automatic cleaner as usual

- Empty cleaner bag, filter basket, skimmer baskets and backwash frequently to keep pressure down

- Filtration and Circulation will be necessary to clear the water

- Test and adjust chemistry as needed

Rain water will have an effect on the water chemistry, so even if there is no excess storm debris or after clean up, it is important to check the water chemistry. Rain water typically effects the pH and alkalinity. The phosphate levels may need to be checked as well, especially if landscape materials such as fertilizers and plant products were used in the area and water run off has gone into the pool.

As much as we would prefer a perfect swim season with sunny skies and beautiful weather, mother nature feels otherwise. At C&V Wetworks we strive to provide you with exceptional service and helpful information, if you need assistance with storm clean up or have questions, feel free to give us a call!