In Northeast Arkansas, severe storms aren’t just a possibility; they are a seasonal reality. From high-velocity winds to the torrential downpours characteristic of Craighead County, the elements can wreak havoc on your pool or swim spa if you aren’t prepared. While the water itself is resilient, your expensive mechanical equipment—pumps, heaters, and automation systems—is vulnerable.
At Jonesboro Pools & Spas, we want to ensure that once the clouds clear, your backyard oasis is ready for use, not in need of a major insurance claim. Here is your professional checklist for storm preparedness.
1. Power Down and Protect
The biggest threat during an Arkansas storm isn’t always the wind—it’s the lightning and power surges. If a severe storm is forecast, turn off the power to your pool equipment at the main circuit breaker. A nearby strike can fry the sensitive motherboards in modern heaters and salt systems. For added protection, consider installing a dedicated surge protector for your pool pad to mitigate risk even when you aren’t home to flip the switch.
2. Don’t Drain the Pool
It might seem logical to lower the water level to prevent overflowing, but this is a common mistake. Keeping the water at its normal level provides the weight necessary to keep the pool shell anchored in the ground. During heavy rain, the water table in the soil rises; an empty or low pool can actually “pop” out of the ground due to hydrostatic pressure. Your pool’s overflow drain will handle the excess, or you can slowly pump it down after the storm has passed.
3. Store the “Projectiles”
Jonesboro winds can turn a heavy patio chair or a pool cleaner into a projectile in seconds.
- Remove: Take all pool toys, telescopic poles, and light patio furniture and store them in a shed or garage.
- Safety Covers: Do not put your winter cover on for a summer storm. High winds can get underneath them, causing damage to the cover and your pool’s coping.
4. Post-Storm Chemistry
Once the storm passes, your water chemistry will be completely unbalanced. Rainwater is acidic and carries dust, pollen, and spores. Run your filtration system as soon as power is safely restored and bring a water sample to our Jonesboro location for a BioGuard analysis.
The Local Expert Advantage
Being prepared is about more than just luck; it’s about a plan. If you are unsure about your equipment’s weather-readiness, the team at Jonesboro Pools & Spas is here to help with professional inspections and storm-proofing advice.
Stay safe, Jonesboro! When the thunder rolls, make sure your equipment is protected so you can get back to swimming the moment the sun returns.
