Hurricane season puts Palm Beach County pools through conditions most equipment and water chemistry are not built to handle on their own. A little preparation before a storm, and the right approach afterward, can make the difference between a quick recovery and a much bigger cleanup.
Before the Storm
- Lower the water level slightly — a few inches below normal helps accommodate heavy rain without overflowing.
- Do not fully drain the pool. An empty pool can actually be at greater risk of structural damage from ground pressure and can shift or crack.
- Shock the water and boost chlorine before the storm so the water has a better chance of staying sanitized through heavy rain and debris.
- Turn off power to pool equipment at the breaker before the storm arrives.
- Secure or remove loose pool furniture, floats, and accessories that could become debris or damage the pool surface.
- Remove ladders, solar covers, and anything that could be lifted by wind.
After the Storm
- Do not turn equipment back on right away. Check for storm damage to the pump, filter, and electrical connections first.
- Remove large debris — branches, leaves, and any items that blew into the pool — before running the filtration system.
- Test the water. Heavy rain dilutes chemical balance significantly, and standing debris can throw off sanitizer levels fast.
- Inspect for damage to the pool shell, tile line, deck, and equipment pad.
- Restart circulation gradually once you have confirmed the equipment is safe to run.
Why Pools Often Turn Green After a Storm
Heavy rain dilutes chlorine, clouds block sunlight less than you would think but debris and organic matter introduce a lot of new contamination at once, and power outages can stop filtration for hours or days. That combination is exactly what algae needs to take hold quickly.
When to Call a Professional
If your pool comes through a storm with heavy debris, algae growth, or equipment that will not restart properly, Supreme Pool Services offers hurricane pool prep and storm recovery to help you prepare beforehand and recover quickly afterward. If the water has already turned green, our green pool cleanup and algae treatment service can bring it back to clear.
What It Costs
A pre-storm prep visit typically runs $150–$350. Post-storm recovery costs vary more widely, generally $300–$1,000+, depending on how much debris and chemical correction is needed and whether any equipment was damaged. For pricing across our other services, see the pool service cost guide for Palm Beach County.
Common Questions
Should I drain my pool before a hurricane?
No. A full pool actually holds up better structurally. Lowering the water a few inches is usually enough.
How soon after a storm can I use my pool again?
Once debris is cleared, chemistry is rebalanced, and the water tests safe, most pools are ready to use again within a day or two, though a severely affected pool may take longer.
Can I run my pump during a hurricane?
No. Equipment should be powered off at the breaker before the storm arrives to protect it from power surges and flooding.
Get Started
Whether you need help preparing before a storm or recovering after one, Supreme Pool Services is ready to help. We serve West Palm Beach and the surrounding Palm Beach County area. Call (561) 312-0970 or email supremepoolsandspa@gmail.com to request a free estimate.
