Monsoon Storm Pool Care: What to Do Before and After Arizona Storms

Monsoon season is here in AZ and it lasts from July to September - and occasionally we see storms in October.

High winds and dust storms are cause for concern with your pool - the high winds have the potential to lift large amounts of dust into the air, which inevitably lands in the pool…along with leaves, debris, and even your pool umbrella!

If you’ve ever looked outside after a storm and seen your water full of dirt, leaves, or even your patio umbrella, you’re not alone.

A monsoon storm can overwhelm your pool system fast. Don't let things sit for days waiting for your pool guy to come by - it could be a bigger problem by the time they get there on weekly rounds.

Here’s how to care for your pool before and after a storm hits.

Before the Storm: Prepare Your Pool

A little preparation goes a long way. When you know a storm is coming, take a few minutes to secure your pool area and equipment.

1. Clear and Secure the Pool Area

• Bring inside lightweight furniture, floats, and pool toys.

• Close and tie down pool umbrellas — they’re often the first things to fly.

• Remove loose items from your deck to prevent them from ending up in the pool.

2. Empty Skimmer and Pump Baskets

Clear debris before the storm hits. Empty baskets help water circulate properly while the system is running during heavy winds.

3. Lower the Water Level Slightly

If your pool is already full, drain a few inches of water. This gives room for heavy rainfall and prevents overflow during the storm.

4. Run the Pump During the Storm (if possible)

Keeping your pump and filter running helps capture debris as it enters the water. If it’s unsafe to go outside during the storm, switch it on right before and leave it running for several hours afterward.

After the Storm: Clean and Restore Your Pool

When the skies clear, don’t wait days for your next scheduled cleaning because debris sitting in the water can lead to algae, stains, and clogged equipment.

1. Turn On the Pump

Run your pump and filter continuously for at least 24 hours after the storm to help clear out fine dust and debris.

2. Skim, Sweep, and Brush the Pool

Use a skimmer net to remove large debris first. Then brush and vacuum the pool walls and floor to lift fine dirt so it can pass through the filter.

3. Clean Out Baskets and Filters

Empty skimmer and pump baskets frequently - sometimes more than once if you had heavy leaf debris. If you have a cartridge or DE filter, rinse or backwash it sooner than your normal schedule to prevent clogging.

4. Test and Balance Chemicals

Monsoon dust, rainwater, and organic matter can upset your pool chemistry.Test chlorine, pH, and alkalinity levels.

• If chlorine is low, shock the pool to sanitize.

• If pH is high, add acid to restore balance.

Balanced water prevents algae growth and keeps your pool safe for swimming.

Why Quick Action Matters

Arizona dust storms carry phosphates and organic debris that can fuel algae and stain surfaces if left untreated.Waiting even a few days before cleaning can cause cloudy or green water, clogged filters, and stress on your pool equipment.A quick clean-up keeps your pool healthy and avoids more costly repairs later.

When to Call a Pool Professional

If your pool still looks dirty, cloudy, or unbalanced after cleaning, or if your filter pressure spikes, it may be time to bring in a professional.

At Sunset Pool Care, we help homeowners in Chandler, Gilbert, and surrounding areas with:

• Post-storm debris removal

• Filter cleaning and equipment checks

• Water testing and chemical balancing

Call 480-682-7986 or request service online. We’ll get your pool back to clean, clear, and ready to enjoy.

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