Protecting your pool or spa during rainy weather: what to do when storms hit

Light rain usually won’t cause major problems for your pool or spa. But when heavy rain or storms occur, your water can quickly become imbalanced or filled with debris. Here’s how to protect your pool or spa when it rains.

1. Cover the pool or spa in advance

Prevention is key. If rain is forecast:

• Use a pool cover or solar blanket.
• For spas, always close the lid securely when not in use.

A cover helps to:

• Limit rainwater entering the pool, which is often acidic,
• Prevent leaves and dirt from falling in,
• Preserve water temperature.

2. Check the water level

Heavy rain can quickly raise your water level:

• If it goes above the skimmers, it can disrupt circulation.
• Drain a bit of water after the rain if needed.

3. Test your water after the rain

Rainwater can lower the pH and affect water balance:

• It may reduce chlorine effectiveness,
• Promote algae growth,
• Or lead to cloudy water.

Be sure to:

• Test pH, alkalinity, and disinfectant levels,
• Adjust as needed using proper treatment products.

If you use an EcO sensor, it will show the changes in real time.

4. Clean the pool or spa promptly

After the rain:

• Skim out debris like leaves or twigs,
• Brush the walls if needed,
• Check that the filter isn’t clogged.

Quick cleaning prevents pollution and protects your equipment.

5. Run the filtration system

Activate filtration during or after rainfall to:

• Keep the water moving,
• Prevent stagnation,
• Distribute treatment products evenly.

If there was a power outage, don’t forget to restart the pump manually.

Conclusion

Rain is inevitable, but its effects on your pool or spa can be managed. By taking the right steps before, during, and after bad weather, you’ll maintain clean, healthy water and simplify your maintenance.