Why Pool Equipment Is Vulnerable in a Hurricane
Your pool's mechanical equipment — pump, motor, filter, heater, automation system, and salt cell — represents a significant investment that is particularly vulnerable during a hurricane. High winds can damage or destroy equipment that is not properly secured. Storm surge and flooding can submerge electrical components. Flying debris can impact equipment enclosures. And the power surges and outages that accompany storms can damage sensitive electronics.
Proper pre-storm preparation can protect your pool equipment from most storm-related damage. John at Blue Harbor Home Watch coordinates pool storm preparation for clients who are away when a storm threatens.
Proper System Shutdown Sequence
Before a hurricane, your pool equipment should be shut down in the correct sequence to prevent damage. Turn off the pool heater first and allow it to cool down before shutting off the pump — running the heater without water circulation can damage the heat exchanger. Then turn off the pump and filter system. Turn off the pool automation system and any salt chlorinator. Finally, turn off the circuit breakers for all pool equipment at the electrical panel.
Do not simply turn off the main circuit breaker for the pool — this can leave some components energized and vulnerable to power surges when power is restored. Shut down each component individually through its own controls before cutting power at the panel.
Flood and Debris Protection
If your pool equipment is in an area that could flood, consider whether it can be elevated or moved before the storm. For equipment that cannot be moved, ensure that all electrical connections are properly sealed and that the equipment enclosure is as watertight as possible. Remove any loose items near the equipment pad that could become projectiles.
If storm surge flooding is a risk, consider wrapping electrical components in plastic sheeting secured with waterproof tape. This is not a perfect solution, but it can provide some protection against splash and minor flooding. Equipment that is submerged in saltwater will likely require professional inspection and cleaning before it can be safely operated.
Pool Water Management
Contrary to what many homeowners believe, you should not drain your pool before a hurricane. An empty pool can pop out of the ground if the water table rises during a storm — a phenomenon called hydrostatic uplift that can cause catastrophic damage to the pool structure. Instead, lower the water level by 6 to 12 inches to accommodate the rainfall that will enter the pool during the storm.
Add extra chlorine (shock the pool) before the storm to help maintain water quality despite the dilution and contamination that will occur during the storm. This makes post-storm cleanup significantly easier.
Screen Enclosure Considerations
Pool screen enclosures are particularly vulnerable to hurricane damage. The screens themselves will likely be destroyed in a major storm — this is expected and the screens can be replaced. More concerning is damage to the aluminum frame, which can be bent or collapsed by high winds. Before a storm, remove any furniture or items from the enclosure that could become projectiles. Some homeowners choose to remove screen panels before a major storm to reduce wind resistance on the frame — consult with a screen enclosure contractor about whether this is appropriate for your specific enclosure.
Post-Storm Restart Protocol
After the storm passes, do not immediately restart your pool equipment. First, inspect all equipment for visible damage. Check for debris in the pump basket and skimmer. Verify that all electrical connections are dry and undamaged. Have the pool water tested before running the system — storm contamination can damage equipment if the chemistry is severely off. If any equipment was submerged, have it inspected by a pool professional before restarting.
John at Blue Harbor Home Watch coordinates pool storm preparation and post-storm inspection for clients. Contact Blue Harbor Home Watch to discuss how professional property monitoring protects your Naples pool and equipment throughout hurricane season.
