Protecting Your Pool During a Hurricane: What Equipment Needs to Be Secured

Securing the Pool Pump and Filter System

Your pool pump and filter are among the most essential components of your pool system. Heavy winds and flying debris during a hurricane can cause damage to these systems if not properly protected. These equipment components are sensitive to water, wind, and physical impact, making it essential to secure them before a storm hits.

What to Do:

• Turn off the power: Always switch off the electrical supply to the pool pump, filter, and any connected equipment to avoid damage from power surges.
• Protect with weatherproof covers: If you have a pool pump cover, use it to shield the pump from rain and debris. If no cover is available, use a heavy-duty tarp to secure it tightly over the equipment.
• Elevate the pump and filter: If possible, elevate the pump and filter off the ground to avoid water damage in case of flooding.

Hydrologix Tip: Hydrologix offers pool pump covers and weatherproofing services to help protect your equipment during storms. We can also assist with securing your pump and filter system to minimize the risk of storm damage.

Protecting the Pool Heater

Your pool heater is another piece of equipment that should be protected during a hurricane. Gas heaters, heat pumps, and solar heaters can all be damaged by high winds, moisture, or flying debris.

What to Do:

• Cover the heater: Use a weatherproof cover or tarp to protect the heater. Be sure to secure it tightly to prevent the cover from being blown away.
• Shut off the gas or power supply: If you have a gas-powered heater, shut off the gas supply to prevent leaks or damage. If it’s an electric heater, ensure the power is turned off to avoid electrical damage.
• Check vents and connections: Ensure all vents are clear and sealed, and check the connections for any potential weaknesses that could be exposed to the elements.

Hydrologix Tip: For gas heaters, Hydrologix recommends a gas line inspection prior to storm season to ensure all connections are secure and leak-free. We also provide heating system protection to keep your heater safe during severe weather.

Securing the Pool Automation System

Pool automation systems like Pentair IntelliCenter or Hayward OmniLogic provide smart, remote control of your pool’s equipment. While these systems offer convenience, they are vulnerable to power surges, water damage, and physical impact during a hurricane.

What to Do:

• Disconnect the system: If possible, disconnect the pool automation system from power to prevent electrical damage.
• Protect with covers: Use weatherproof covers or tarps to shield the control panel, sensors, and any connected equipment.
• Elevate if needed: If your system’s control panel is located in a flood-prone area, consider elevating it to reduce the risk of water damage.

Hydrologix Tip: Hydrologix provides pool automation services and upgrades that include weatherproof enclosures for your control systems. We can help secure your smart pool systems for hurricane season.

Covering Pool Lights and Electrical Components

Pool lights and other electrical components around your pool area are vulnerable to the elements during a hurricane. Electrical wiring and fixtures can be damaged by moisture, flying debris, or high winds.

What to Do:

• Cover pool lights: Use weatherproof covers for all underwater lighting and deck lights to prevent moisture and debris from causing damage.
• Turn off electrical systems: Disconnect electrical systems connected to the pool, such as lighting and automation controls, to prevent damage from surges or water exposure.
• Check wiring: Inspect any exposed electrical wiring to ensure it’s secured and protected.

Hydrologix Tip: Hydrologix offers lighting installation services with waterproofing options and electrical system inspections to ensure your pool lights and wiring are protected.

Protecting Pool Covers and Skimmers

Pool covers are essential for keeping debris out of your pool during a storm. However, if not properly secured, the cover itself can be damaged by high winds. Similarly, pool skimmers and baskets need protection to prevent damage during heavy rains or flooding.

What to Do:

• Secure the pool cover: Tighten and secure your pool cover to prevent it from being lifted by high winds. If you have an automatic cover, ensure it’s in good working condition and properly closed.
• Remove debris: Clear any debris from skimmers, baskets, and drains to ensure they’re not clogged during the storm.
• Elevate skimmers if possible: If your skimmers are exposed to the elements, consider elevating them to prevent water or debris damage.

Hydrologix Tip: We offer pool cover installation and skimmer protection services, ensuring that your pool remains secure during hurricane season.

Prepare for Post-Hurricane Recovery

After the storm has passed, you’ll need to assess your pool equipment to ensure that everything is still functioning properly and free of debris. It’s essential to be prepared for this post-storm recovery process to ensure a smooth transition back to normal pool operation.

What to Do:

• Inspect equipment for damage: Check your pool pump, filter, heater, and all electrical components for any visible damage or signs of wear.
• Clean out debris: Clear any debris from the pool and surrounding areas to prevent clogs and ensure that your pool equipment is not strained by the excess material.
• Check electrical connections: Ensure that all electrical connections are secure and dry before turning equipment back on.

Hydrologix Tip: If your pool equipment is damaged during the storm, Hydrologix provides post-hurricane recovery services to inspect, repair, and replace any damaged components. We also offer pool cleaning services to restore your pool to optimal conditions.

Conclusion

Hurricane season is an important time for pool owners in the Tampa Bay area to ensure that their pool equipment is secure. By taking the necessary steps to protect and prepare your equipment, you can minimize the damage caused by storms and reduce repair costs. Regular maintenance and preparedness will help keep your pool system safe, ensuring that it continues to function smoothly throughout the storm season and beyond.

Ready to take a deeper dive? If you’re experiencing equipment issues or considering an upgrade, contact Hydrologix today to schedule a diagnostic visit or get an estimate for new installation.