While the weather reports about the Sahara dust, the hurricane season is now in full swing. The summer of 2020 is recording extremely high temperatures, and, despite the COVID-19 pandemic, every pool owner must think ahead. After all, Mother Nature is unpredictable. So far, there is no cyclone or hurricane formation for now. *   

* NOAA’s hurricane season outlook

The past weather events taught Houstonians not to take anything for granted. It is vital to protect the pool and the rest of your property. Let us share some tips on how to protect your oasis best (with or without COVID-19):

Pool Tips – Before the Storm

• Avoid accidents by keeping children secured, especially right before a hurricane.
• Store the outdoor furniture inside the house. Placing it in the pool can cause damages to the pool cup. 
• Put away toys, ornaments, and plant pots. These can become projectiles. 
• Do not empty the pool. The water helps to keep the pool in-ground, preventing from popping from the ground. Don’t forget that overflows help to drain excess water. 
• Add more chlorine to avoid water contamination. Also, the water comes in handy for washing, cleaning, or discharging toilets after the hurricane. 
• Please turn off the circuit breaker from the pool filter and pumping system. After the machines cool off, cover it with a waterproof cover tightly. 
• Disconnect the electrical system and propane gas tanks.
• Uninstall the safety fence from around the pool if it is not iron, steel, or held by a concrete foundation. A strong wind it all it takes to blow it away.
• Remove the canvas awnings in your backyard and place them inside.
• Prune the trees and hedges.
• If there is no outdoor kitchen, but there is a grill or barbecue, store them away. Please do not use it for cooking inside the home or garage.
• Have all the essential documents inside a waterproof sealed bag (birth certificates, identifications, titles, house deeds, health insurance cards, and insurance papers). Carry the documentation in the event of an evacuation; it will come in handy for any claims.

Pool Tips – After the Storm

• Do not allow children and adults near the swimming pool. 
• Verify that the pool equipment is in order, especially look for any damaged cables or parts.
• Contact a pool company to test and repair or replace any damaged parts.
• Don’t drain the water out of the pool. Remove all debris to avoid staining your oasis.
• Check the skimmer and pump baskets to ensure that they are free of debris. It will help to provide better filtering and circulation in the pool.
• Chlorinate the water and keep it clean. Remember, after a hurricane, pool water can convert into a mosquito breeding zone if not cared for properly.
• Check the chemical balance of the water. Use a two-stage clarifier to do the proper cleaning.
• Test the water for phosphates and use a phosphate remover if necessary.

Our customers are our primary concern. Contact us today at 281.870.1600 for any questions. We are ready to help.