Living in North Carolina means enjoying long summers and mild winters—ideal for owning a backyard pool. But it also means preparing for hurricane season, which typically runs from June through November. For Raleigh pool owners, hurricanes and tropical storms can bring heavy rain, strong winds, falling debris, and power outages—all of which pose serious risks to your swimming pool and equipment.

1. Don’t Drain Your Pool—But Balance the Water

One of the biggest misconceptions during hurricane prep is that you should drain your pool. Don’t do it. Keeping water in your pool actually helps weigh it down and prevent structural damage. An empty pool is more likely to lift or crack due to groundwater pressure.

Instead of draining, focus on balancing the water chemistry. Adjust chlorine levels, pH, and alkalinity to prevent contamination from debris or excess rainwater. Adding an algaecide or shock treatment can also help prepare the water for post-storm conditions.

2. Turn Off Electrical Equipment and Secure Power

Before a storm hits, it’s crucial to turn off all electrical components connected to your pool. This includes:

1. Pool pumps
2. Filters
3. Heaters
4. Lights
5. Automation systems

If you can, shut off power at the circuit breaker to prevent electrical damage due to flooding or power surges. If your equipment is exposed, cover it with waterproof plastic wrap or a tightly secured tarp—but never run equipment while covered.

3. Remove or Secure Pool Accessories

High winds can turn pool accessories into dangerous projectiles. To avoid damage to your home, pool, or neighbors’ property, remove and safely store:

1. Poolside furniture
2. Skimmer lids
3. Toys and floats
4. Umbrellas and grills
5. Pool covers (unless it’s a safety cover)

For items too large to store, such as patio sets or pergolas, secure them tightly using strong straps or anchors.

4. Protect the Pool Equipment

In Raleigh, most pool pumps and filters are installed at ground level and can be vulnerable to flooding. Use waterproof coverings or place sandbags around the equipment pad to help divert water. For added protection, consider elevating your equipment or installing a flood-proof enclosure.

5. Trim Surrounding Trees and Landscaping

Hurricanes often bring heavy winds that can snap branches and uproot trees. Trimming overhanging limbs and clearing dead vegetation can reduce the risk of debris falling into your pool or damaging the pool shell, liner, or decking.

6. Document and Inspect Before the Storm

Take detailed photos or videos of your pool and equipment before the storm. This will be helpful if you need to file an insurance claim due to storm-related damage. Be sure to get pictures or videos of your:

1. Pool water and surface
2. Equipment area
3. Surrounding deck and patio
4. Fence or enclosure

After the storm passes, you’ll have images to reference when checking for damage.

7. Post-Storm Pool Inspection and Cleanup

Once it’s safe to go outside, inspect your pool and surrounding area for debris, contamination, and damage. Key steps to take after a storm:

1. Remove large debris by hand (branches, leaves, etc.)
2. Inspect the water level—it may be too high from rainwater and require draining
3. Check the pool water chemistry and adjust accordingly
4. Examine all equipment before turning it back on
5. Clean out the skimmer, pump basket, and filter
6. If needed, schedule a professional pool inspection to check for unseen damage

Rising Sun Pools offers post-storm pool service in Raleigh to ensure your system is safe and functional. We can quickly assess your equipment, test your water, and perform any necessary repairs or cleanings.

8. Consider Long-Term Storm Protection Upgrades

If you’re a homeowner in North Carolina, hurricane preparation should be part of your pool maintenance routine. We recommend long-term upgrades that add protection and convenience, such as:

1. Automatic pool covers rated for heavy weather
2. Elevated or flood-protected equipment pads
3. Weather-resistant control panels and automation
4. Surge protectors for pool electronics
5. Backup generators to keep filtration systems running during outages