So you’re sitting in the pool. It’s a nice, warm spring afternoon, and the raincloud you thought wouldn’t get closer until the nighttime is looming ever near. Whatever, right? You can’t get any wetter. Swimming in the rain is fun; it merges a bit of playful rebellion with the benefits of swimming and rainwater.
While it’s essential to nature, rain can have a significant impact on above-ground pools. Today’s blog is all about how rain can affect your pool, and we’ll share a few tips to keep it in tip-top shape!
1. Pool Chemicals
Rainwater carries a complex concentration of impurities that it captures in the atmosphere—like pollen, dust, and contaminants. When it comes in contact with the pool, these contaminants can dilute its carefully balanced chemical composition. This can go so far as to impact the water’s pH levels and clarity.
To stay on top of chemical imbalance, we suggest that you test and adjust the chemical balance of your pool after heavy rainfall. This ensures that your pool stays a safe space for swimming. If you’re not sure how to go about measuring chemicals, reach out to us. Namco can test your water for free, and our excellent staff can help you balance your pool water.
2. Overflow and Water Level Management
Heavy rain can lead to an overflow of water in your pool and any other water features in your home. This can lead to wasted water, but most importantly, it can impact the stability of an over-ground pool’s structure and the surrounding area. When heavy rain combines with improper drainage, the soil around the pool may also become eroded.
We suggest inspecting your existing draining system and performing any repairs or installing a proper system to redirect excess rainwater away from the pool area. You should regularly monitor the water level and use a submersible pump if necessary to maintain an optimal level of water.
3. Algae
Rainwater also carries organic matter and nutrients that create favorable conditions for algae and other bacteria to grow. Aside from looking unappealing, algae can also pose health risks to swimmers. The algae itself isn’t harmful, but it is the main feeding source for bacteria that can result in rashes, fever, diarrhea, and eye infections.
Keeping a clean pool is the first step to controlling algae and bacteria. We suggest the introduction of algaecides and shock treatments to prevent algae growth. You can also skim the pool regularly to remove any debris and leaves brought by the rain.
4. Temperature Fluctuations
Rainfall comes in cold and can contribute to temperature fluctuations in any body of water. This may not be an issue on larger cisterns and basins, but above-ground pools are more susceptible to these changes. This can impact the comfort of your swimming experience, and it can go so far as to affect water balance. Colder water is less desirable for bacteria, but it can lead to calcium deposits, especially during the winter.
Consider investing in a pool cover to retain heat during rainy seasons. It helps maintain a more consistent water temperature. Monitoring is also an excellent way to stay on top of your pool’s temperature before it results in bigger issues.
5. Stronger Storms
At this point, you have everything you need to prepare for any kind of rainfall. Still, it’s important to discuss how to face more intense storms. The basics remain the same: Keep water and chemical levels in check, clean up debris and algae, and clean up after the storm. However, keep in mind that a cover alone doesn’t do much to protect against stronger storms—unless it’s very well secured. In fact, many don’t usually recommend covering against a deluge, as the strong winds and volume of rainfall can just sink your cover anyway.
You can keep your eye out on the weather forecast, but sometimes, a storm will sneak up on you disguised as coming rain. For these cases, we recommend close attention after the storm. Take your precautions, of course, but know that the best course of action against stronger storms is usually aftercare. Let the storm pass, and evaluate your situation promptly afterward.
Isolated rain should not be an issue, but as the rainy season gets closer, the best we can do is be prepared! We can’t control the weather, but we can take steps to protect our pools from the elements. Stay vigilant and test your pool water quality regularly. Implement preventative measures to ensure that your pool continues to be a source of enjoyment for you and yours. Allow yourself to not mind the rain by taking care of your home’s oasis. Have any questions or concerns? We're always just a phone call away! Call your local store for more information or advice on your pool or water chemistry.
