Have you ever thought about the effect that rain has on your swimming pool? While a good number of people find ways to deal with occurrences like snow, dust storms and thunderstorms, very few consider rain to be something they need to worry about. However, rain can affect your pool in multiple ways, making it important to understand the changes it can bring about. This will help you to maintain swimming comfort and the sanitary condition of your pool. So what exactly does rain do to your swimming pool?
Here’s what to know.
Affects Pool Water Chemistry Balance
Proper water chemistry levels in your pool promote safety and comfort for those that use the facility. Because rainwater has acidic properties, it can affect both the pH and alkaline levels in your pool. This is particularly true when it rains heavily or for an extended period of time. Distorted pH levels can compromise the effectiveness of chlorine and cause skin and eye irritation. To counteract these effects, test your water and adjust chemicals to stabilize the pH.
Introduces Debris
Heavy rain is usually accompanied by wind. The wind can pick up dirt and debris along the way and bring them into your pool. Dust, pollen, trash and leaves that fall into the pool will contaminate the water and clog your filter and pumps. Falling debris can also cause damage to your pool cover. The debris added to your pool with rainfall will make pool cleanup and maintenance more difficult.
Brings In Other Contaminants Into The Pool
Apart from debris, rainwater can introduce other contaminants to your water. High levels of organic contaminants like phosphates and nitrates can cause algae to thrive. Heavy rainfall will also dilute the chlorine levels in your swimming pool, effectively reducing the effectiveness of the chemical. This can contribute to the growth of germs, bacteria and algae. Professional pool maintenance services will help to get rid of such contaminants.
Accumulation of Extra Water
It goes without saying that a heavy downpour will raise your pool’s water level. The excess water may cause your pool to flood, resulting in extensive damage to your property. The accumulation of excess water can also lead to extra runoff and debris in the pool. When water levels rise significantly, your surface skimmer may be rendered useless. Draining your pool back to the appropriate level will ensure proper skimming.
Cracks & Physical Damage
Heavy rains will cause groundwater levels to rise. This will exert upward pressure on the bottom of your pool, a factor that could push the pool out of the ground in case it is not weighed down with enough water. The sudden pressure can cause cracks and physical damage to the structure of your pool. When this happens, you will need to request professional pool repair services to get the facility back in proper working condition.
Damage To Electrical Equipment
Water and electricity do not mix. A combination of heavy rain and strong winds can force water into the tiny cracks in the equipment around your pool. This will not only present safety hazards but can also cause severe damage to the electrical units. The acidity associated with rain water can contribute to the erosion of the plaster and metal in the swimming pool.
In preparation for heavy rain, you should store any loose items surrounding your pool safely. You should also switch off all gas and electrical lines connected to your pool. Lastly, turn off the pump and use a sturdy pool cover that can stand up to a storm.
The next time you need advice or help from a pool professional, look no further than McCallum’s Pool Service and Repair. We are a locally-owned pool service company located in Phoenix, AZ. We offer weekly pool services and a variety of repair services in Scottsdale, Phoenix, Cave Creek, and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to get a free estimate.