What to do with your pool AFTER the storm
October 11, 2016Winter is Coming: Are You Ready?
October 17, 2016It’s important to use the right chemicals and tools to clean swimming pools after a storm. Come see us in the store – we want to help make sure you prevent any additional damage to your above ground swimming pool and deck designs!
Ideally, pools that have been contaminated with floodwater should be drained and refilled with fresh water. In cases where this isn’t possible or the damage is not as critical, water can be cleaned with chemicals, flocculation and filtration.
After any type of flood situation, pool equipment should first be inspected and verified to be in good working order. Of most importance: electrical devices. Be sure to test them and replace or repair swimming pool supplies as needed. In addition, the filter should be inspected before any attempt to clean dirty water in pools. The following is a suggestion for dealing with flooded pools.
1. First, remove as much physical debris as possible.
2. Make sure all skimmer and pump baskets are free of debris with good circulation and filtration.
3. Superchlorinate the pool to at least 20 ppm.
6. After 6 hours (or one turnover rate of the filter), add the second stage of the two-part clarifier and continue running the pool filter.
The pool should clear completely within 24 hours after the second stage of clarifier is added. Backwash or clean the filter after 24 hours. If the existing system is damaged, this system can work with a portable filter system as well.
Once the water is clear test for phosphates and treat with a phosphate remover if needed. Once phosphate levels have been lowered down to 200 ppb, add a good broad-spectrum algaecide, which will be effective against all types of algae. This type of cleanup method should ensure the pool water is clean and ready for regular maintenance, which should occur between 1 and 3ppm after treatment.
