How to Clean Your Pool After a Windstorm: A Step-by-Step Guide

After a windstorm, your pool can transform from a sparkling oasis into a debris-filled mess. Cleaning it up might seem overwhelming, but with the right tools and techniques, you can have it looking pristine in no time. This step-by-step guide walks you through the process of cleaning a pool after a storm, featuring tips and recommendations from experienced pool care professionals.

1. Assess the Damage and Gather Your Tools

Every pool is different, and the amount of debris after a windstorm can vary. Some pools may only have surface debris, while others may require extensive cleaning of both the surface and the bottom. Start by assessing the damage so you can prioritize your tasks.

Essential Tools for Cleanup

• Leaf rake or skimmer: To remove surface debris like leaves and twigs.
• Vacuum system: A powerful vacuum, such as the Bottom Feeder, is ideal for removing debris from the pool floor quickly and efficiently.
• Brush: For scrubbing the sides and steps to loosen dirt and debris.
• Dawn soap spray: A simple trick to help clump surface debris for easier removal.
• Micron filter bags: Useful for collecting fine debris like ash from the pool floor.
• Automatic suction cleaner: To polish and remove fine dirt after manual cleaning.

2. Step-by-Step Pool Cleanup Process

Once your tools are ready, follow these steps to tackle the mess effectively:

Start with the Surface

Begin by skimming the surface of the pool to remove large debris. Use a leaf rake to collect leaves, twigs, and other floating items. Focus on working in a consistent pattern—start at the edges and gradually move toward the center. Don’t worry if some debris sinks to the bottom; you’ll address that later.

Pro Tip: Spray Dawn soap around the pool’s perimeter. This helps clump debris together and makes skimming easier.

Vacuum the Pool Floor

For a thorough clean, a powerful vacuum system like the Bottom Feeder is essential. Traditional manual vacuum heads can clog easily when dealing with heavy leaf debris, but battery-powered vacuums are more efficient. Use a 57-micron bag for finer debris like ash, or a 100-micron bag for larger debris. Move slowly across the pool floor to ensure thorough collection.

If there’s heavy ash or fine particles due to nearby fires, prioritize using a smaller micron bag to reduce strain on your filtration system. The Bottom Feeder’s cordless design makes it especially effective for rapid cleaning.

Brush the Walls and Steps

Once the surface and bottom are clean, brush the pool walls and steps to loosen any remaining dirt. Brushing also gives the pool a polished look, ensuring that no streaks or patches of dirt remain visible.

3. Final Touches and Post-Storm Maintenance

After completing the initial cleanup, a few final steps can help your pool recover fully from the storm.

Polish with an Automatic Cleaner

An automatic suction cleaner, like the Polaris Max or Atlas, is excellent for collecting any remaining fine dirt and ensuring the pool water is crystal clear. While these cleaners are great for routine maintenance, they can struggle with large debris after a storm. Use them as a finishing touch after manual cleaning.

Check and Balance Pool Chemistry

Storm debris can affect your pool’s water chemistry, introducing organic material that disrupts pH and sanitizer levels. Test your pool water for pH, chlorine, and alkalinity. Adjust as needed and consider shocking the pool to eliminate bacteria and contaminants brought in by the storm.

Clear Out Equipment

Don’t forget to clean out skimmer baskets, pump baskets, and filter cartridges. Heavy debris loads can clog these components, reducing water circulation and filtration efficiency.

Tools That Make Pool Cleanup Easier

A few standout tools featured in the video can significantly simplify your post-storm pool maintenance:

• The Bottom Feeder Vacuum System: Portable, battery-powered, and efficient, it’s a must-have for professionals and homeowners in wind-prone areas.
• Skimmer Software: Trusted by thousands of pool service pros, it helps manage routes efficiently, saving time during high-debris periods.
• Dawn Soap Spray: A simple, cost-effective solution for surface debris.

Cleaning a pool after a windstorm doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right tools and a systematic approach, you can restore your pool to its pristine state quickly. For those in areas prone to storms, investing in reliable equipment like the Bottom Feeder is a game-changer, allowing you to clean efficiently and save time. By following these steps, you’ll not only keep your pool looking great but also maintain its health and longevity for years to come.