Houston is known for its hot and humid climate, which can pose some challenges for pool owners. The intense heat, humidity, and occasional severe weather events can affect the water quality, chemistry, and safety of your pool. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the specific challenges and considerations pool owners face in Houston’s current climate and provide some tips for effective pool maintenance. 

Heat and Humidity 

Houston has an average high temperature of 90°F in the summer and an average relative humidity of 75%. 

These conditions can have several impacts on your pool, such as: 

Increased evaporation:

The high heat and low humidity can cause your pool water to evaporate faster, which can lower the water level and affect the balance of chemicals in your pool. To prevent this, you should check your water level regularly and add water as needed. You should also test your pool water frequently and adjust the chemicals accordingly to maintain the proper pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels. 

Increased algae growth:

The warm and humid climate can create ideal conditions for algae to grow in your pool, which can make your water cloudy, green, or slimy. Algae can also clog your filter and reduce the effectiveness of your sanitizer. To prevent this, you should shock your pool regularly with a high dose of chlorine or other oxidizer and use an algaecide to kill any existing algae. You should also brush and vacuum your pool walls and floor to remove any algae debris. 

Increased bacteria and contaminants:

The heat and humidity can also increase the number of bacteria and contaminants in your pool, such as sweat, sunscreen, dirt, and debris. These can affect the clarity and safety of your water, and cause skin and eye irritation, infections, or illnesses. To prevent this, you should use a sanitizer, such as chlorine or bromine, to kill any harmful microorganisms, and use a clarifier or flocculant to improve the filtration and clarity of your water. You should also rinse off before and after swimming and keep your pool area clean and tidy. 

Severe Weather Events 

Houston is also prone to severe weather events, such as thunderstorms, hurricanes, and floods, which can damage your pool and equipment, and contaminate your water. Here are some tips to protect your pool from these events: 

Thunderstorms: 

Thunderstorms can bring heavy rain, wind, and lightning, which can affect your pool in various ways. Heavy rain can dilute your pool water and lower the chemical levels, while wind can blow dirt, leaves, and debris into your pool. Lightning can also pose a risk of electrocution if it strikes your pool or equipment. To prepare for a thunderstorm cover your pool with a safety cover, and secure any loose items around your pool area. You should also stay away from your pool during a storm and wait until the storm passes before swimming again. 

Hurricanes: 

Hurricanes can bring even more extreme rain, wind, and flooding, which can cause serious damage to your pool and equipment and introduce large amounts of contaminants and debris into your water. To prepare for a hurricane, you should follow the same steps as for a thunderstorm, add extra sanitizer and algaecide to your water. You should also check your pool insurance policy and take photos of your pool before and after the storm for any potential claims. 

Floods: 

Floods can occur due to heavy rain, hurricanes, or overflowing rivers, which can cause your pool to overflow and mix with dirty floodwater. This can make your water unsafe and unsanitary and damage your pool structure and equipment. To prepare for a flood, you should follow the same steps as for a hurricane, but also sandbag your pool area and equipment, and disconnect your pool from the main water supply. You should also avoid swimming in your pool until the floodwater recedes, and test and treat your water accordingly. 

Houston’s current climate can have a significant impact on your pool maintenance, but with some planning and preparation, you can keep your pool in great shape and enjoy it all year round. Platinum Pools is here to help you with all your pool needs, from design and installation to maintenance and repair. We have over 20 years of experience in building and servicing custom pools and spas in Houston and Beaumont, and we are committed to providing you with the highest quality and customer satisfaction. Contact us today for a free consultation and estimate and let us help you create your dream pool.