How to Safely Restart Pool Equipment After a Hurricane

Ensure All Power Is Off Before Restarting Equipment

After the storm, the first thing to do before inspecting or restarting any equipment is to ensure all power is off. Hurricanes often cause power surges or outages, which can damage electrical components if the power is restored too quickly.

What to Do:

• Check the breaker box: Go to your main breaker box and make sure the power is turned off to the pool equipment.
• Turn off pool equipment: Ensure that all pumps, filters, heaters, and automation systems are completely turned off to avoid damage when power is restored.

Hydrologix Tip: Hydrologix recommends using surge protectors for your pool equipment to safeguard it from power surges after storms.

Inspect the Pool Equipment for Damage

Before turning on any equipment, you should carefully inspect the pool system for visible damage caused by the storm. Flooding, flying debris, and water damage can cause internal and external problems that may require repairs before the equipment can safely be used again.

What to Do:

• Check for cracks or leaks: Inspect the pump, filter, and plumbing for any visible cracks or leaks. If water has entered the system, it may need to be drained and dried before restarting.
• Look for debris: Ensure that debris, such as branches, leaves, or trash, hasn’t clogged the pump basket, filter, or skimmer.
• Inspect electrical components: Look for signs of water damage or corrosion around electrical connections, including wiring and control panels.

Hydrologix Tip: Hydrologix offers post-hurricane inspections to ensure all equipment is functioning properly after the storm and to prevent further damage from undetected issues.

Check the Pool Water Level

Hurricanes can cause changes in your pool's water level due to rain or flooding. If the water level is too high or too low, it can affect the pump’s ability to function properly, potentially causing further damage to your system.

What to Do:

• Check the water level: Make sure that the water level is at the midpoint of the skimmer or slightly below. If the water is too high, you may need to drain some water. If it’s too low, you’ll need to refill the pool before restarting the equipment.
• Check for contamination: After the storm, pool water may be contaminated with debris, dirt, or chemicals. It’s essential to ensure the pool is clean and that the water is properly balanced before running the system.

Hydrologix Tip: Hydrologix offers water chemistry testing and adjustments to ensure that your pool water is clean and properly balanced after a storm.

Examine the Pool Pump and Filter System

The pool pump and filter system are essential components for proper water circulation and cleanliness. These systems should be carefully inspected to ensure they are free from debris and not suffering from water damage.

What to Do:

• Clear debris from the pump: Open the pump lid and check for any debris or blockages in the pump basket. Remove any large debris before starting the pump.
• Inspect the filter: Check the filter for clogs and clean or replace the filter media if necessary. Make sure the filter tank is securely closed.
• Check for leaks: Ensure that all plumbing connections to the pump and filter are tight and secure. Leaking pipes can lead to inefficient operation and water damage.

Hydrologix Tip: If your pool pump or filter system was damaged by the storm, Hydrologix provides repairs and upgrades to ensure optimal functionality.

Inspect and Test the Pool Heater

If you have a pool heater, it’s important to check it carefully after a hurricane. Flooding and water exposure can cause internal damage to heaters, especially gas heaters or heat pumps.

What to Do:

• Check for visible damage: Look for signs of rust, corrosion, or water damage around the heater. Ensure that all connections are dry and intact before turning the unit back on.
• Test the heater: If the heater appears undamaged, turn it on and check for proper operation. Listen for unusual sounds, such as rattling or humming, which could indicate internal damage.
• Check gas connections (for gas heaters): Ensure that the gas line is intact and there are no leaks. If you notice any damage to the gas lines, contact a professional for repairs.

Hydrologix Tip: Hydrologix offers pool heater inspections and repairs, ensuring your system is safe and ready to operate after a storm.

Turn On the Equipment Slowly

After ensuring that everything is secure and properly checked, you can begin turning on the equipment. It’s important to start the system slowly to avoid overloading any components or causing electrical damage.

What to Do:

• Turn on the pump first: Start by turning on the pool pump and allowing it to run for a few minutes. Check for leaks or unusual sounds, and ensure the water is circulating properly.
• Check the filter: After the pump is running, turn on the filter and ensure it is working as expected.
• Test the heater: If the heater passed the inspection, turn it on next, checking for any issues with heating or functionality.

Hydrologix Tip: If your equipment is not working as expected or you notice any unusual sounds or issues, Hydrologix can provide immediate repairs to get your system running smoothly again.

Conclusion

Bringing your pool equipment back online after a hurricane requires careful inspection, proper drainage, and a systematic approach. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your pool system is safe to operate and that any potential damage is addressed before it becomes a bigger issue.

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.