Summertime represents the sun, warm weather, swimming in your pool with friends and family. Summer also represents rainfalls. In some states, summer can provide rainstorms almost every day. If you think the rain does not damage your swimming pool, then here are some facts that you should have present at all time.
First, the problem with rainfalls in the United States is that the water provided by Mother Nature is acidic. It not only affects the chemicals in your water but also can change the pH balance and alkalinity level in your pool’s water.
Another problem with acidic rain is that it makes the water corrosive that can affect the plaster and ceramic that is in your oasis. Of course, a light rain won’t hurt much, but there are other places where it rains practically every day.
There are other factors you should know about how rain can affect your swimming pool:
- Rainwater causes the pH levels to rise and TA levels to fall due to chemical dilution.
- Chlorine is less active, so it will not kill the microorganisms and keep the water clean.
- Rain brings algae spores and other debris, like dust, that can submerge into the water, making it murky and, if not treated immediately, sun rays can accelerate the growth of algae.
The appearance of algae, mold, and mildew on the tiles is another situation. The rain can also disseminate algae, which will give a green color to the water. When the rainwater comes in contact with the pool water, the pH and chlorine alter, which can cause the appearance of fungi and bacteria in the pool.
As if this is not enough, the rainwater is usually a different temperature than the pool, making a contrast between the temperature between the rainwater and the water in the pool, which alters the normal temperature levels of the pool. Overflow is another situation that can happen if rainfalls are continuous. If it rains heavily, the water level can rise considerably and, eventually, overflow.
Rainfall Pool Maintenance
With all this commotion by rain, is there a solution? The answer is yes. Here are some recommendations on how to treat your pool after a rainfall:
If you happen to have an automatic cover for your pool, use it. It will help protect the rainwater from contaminating your pool’s water.
If the pool water overflows from continuous heavy rain, drain it until water levels are normal.
Remove all types of debris from your swimming pool including leaves, insects, etc. Run the automatic vacuum so it will clean the sides and bottom of your pool. In this way, it will avoid dirt from harboring any organisms and fungi growth.
Check the skimmers and clean them thoroughly, removing any accumulated debris.
To avoid algae growth, ensure that the filter system is on. Water circulation helps to prevent algae spores from growing in your pool. Some experts recommend running the system for about 10 hours after a rainfall.
Finally, analyze the pH and chlorine levels in the pool’s water, in case it should be adjusted again.
Although you are not going to use the pool for a few hours, it is good to get used to this routine every time the rain alters the quality of the water. In this way, you will prevent it from deteriorating and will stay clean throughout the summer.