When storms are predicted and you’re able to take action to prepare, we usually suggest turning off your pool filtration system and associated heating components until the storm has passed and you’re able to assess any potential issues.
Below are some quick points to review before the storms, and what you need to look at after the storm to ensure your equipment is ok.
If you’re unsure about the extent of the damage or your ability to safely inspect the system, please contact us for a thorough inspection.
Remove and Secure Pool Covers
Before a storm hits, we recommend that you completely roll up your pool cover onto its roller and store it securely in a sheltered location. Ideally, the pool cover also has its own cover to protect it from hail and flying debris.
After: If your pool cover stayed on during a storm, the most common issue is tears from branches falling on the cover. It can also be blown off and twisted, creating cracks & rips. If you notice any damage, the cover will generally need to be replaced as it will not provide the heat retention & evaporation protection as well as intended.
Pool Rollers
Before: If the roller is portable, move it further away from the pool so it can’t blow into the water. By properly storing your pool cover, this will avoid it collecting water, being damaged or damaging your pool.
After: Check your roller for damage from it being flipped over, such as snapped wheels, handles & impact damage from trees, branches or other items that could possibly bend the roller.
Solar Heating
Before: There isn’t much you can do about the solar collectors on your roof in a severe storm. A lot of the time they are hardy enough to withstand a storm, however, if it’s particularly bad, they can be damaged by hail and branches or torn away or off completely in some cases!
Visually check your rooftop solar heating tubes before and after storms. Look for any loose fittings, damaged tubes, or mounting brackets that need attention. Early identification of potential issues can prevent more serious damage during severe weather events and extend the lifespan of your solar heating system.
Finally, we suggest turning off your pool equipment if there is a particularly large storm forecast. If you have a solar pool heating system, turn it off completely during storm warnings. This will provide you the option to restart your system after the event and actively attend to any damage or issues.
After: Once the storm has passed, if you suspect damage, we suggest having a professional inspection of your system to ensure that any damage is rectified quickly before it becomes hazardous.
Typical damage will be water leaking from the roof into the gutters when the system is on, and in some cases, a fountain of water will be noticeable. In these instances, you will need to turn off your solar system and leave it disconnected until repairs can be completed.
*Do not get on your roof to check the solar collectors! Always contact a professional with the proper safety equipment.
Electric Heat Pumps
Before: Turn off your heat pump system completely before storm conditions arrive. First, switch off the unit at its controls, then turn off power at the isolation switch. This two-step process helps protect sensitive electronic components from power surges that often accompany storms.
Ensure the area around the heater is clear from debris and any heavy water runoff is able to escape without impacting the heating unit.
After: While heat pumps are quite hardy from external damage, the biggest concern is flood water getting into the unit and debris collecting in and around the unit. The pipes leading to and from the unit can also be damaged, check these thoroughly.
Clear any debris from around the unit and if the pool equipment and system are capable of running safely, we suggest turning on the heater and checking for leaks, loud operational noises or electrical issues such as tripping circuits or error messages.
Additional checks
Clear Debris Around Heat Pumps: Ensure the area surrounding your heat pump is free from loose items, tools, and vegetation debris. These can be picked up by strong winds and impact your unit.
Clear any drains nearby and maintain a clear area around your heat pump, to reduce the build up of rain water during storms that can cause flood damage to the unit or affect its electrical components.
Error codes: Most pool heating systems have controllers that display error codes indicating specific problems. Check the controller for any error messages and consult the manual for troubleshooting steps.
By following these tips, you can increase the chance of your pool equipment weathering the storm and better understand what to check afterwards.
Remember, safety is always the top priority. If the storm is particularly severe, it’s best to prioritise personal safety and avoid any unnecessary risks near the pool
Post-Storm Procedures
Once the storm has passed, inspect your equipment thoroughly before restarting. Clear away any debris that may have accumulated around your pool pump, solar pump and heat pump, check for visible damage, and ensure ventilation areas are unobstructed. Only when you’re confident the area is safe should you restore power and restart your system.
If you notice any concerning issues with your pool heating system before or after a storm, please contact our service team at Australian Energy Systems. Our technicians are ready to help ensure your equipment remains in optimal condition year-round.
Did you know that we also do insurance claims?
If you need assistance with any home insurance claims, please contact our team to help asses the damage to your equipment and we’ll provide the necessary quotes and information for your insurer.
