What to Do When Your Pool Overflows During Arizona’s Monsoon Season

Arizona’s monsoon season can bring beautiful lightning shows - and a whole lot of rain. When those downpours hit, it’s not unusual for backyard pools to fill up fast. If you wake up to see your pool nearly overflowing, don’t panic! It’s common during heavy storms, and in most cases, it’s nothing to worry about.

The good news? That extra rainwater will usually evaporate in a few days under Arizona’s heat. Still, if you’d like to lower your pool’s water level or make sure your water chemistry stays balanced, here’s what you should know.

Is Pool Overflow Dangerous?

In most cases, an overflowing pool isn’t a problem. Rainwater that spills out just ends up in your yard, the same way it would if it never hit your pool in the first place. Your automatic water leveler will stop adding water once the level rises, and things typically return to normal quickly.

However, if your pool overflows often or stays full for too long, it can:

• Dilute your pool’s chemical balance

• Reduce skimmer efficiency

• Cause debris and contaminants to enter the water

That’s why a quick drain or chemical adjustment after a heavy storm can make a big difference.

How to Safely Lower Your Pool’s Water Level

If you’d like to drain a few inches of water, there are several easy ways to do it.

1. Filter Hose Spigot

If the pool filter pump has a built-in hose spigot, just attach a garden hose, put the other end of the hose into the drain area - most Arizona homes have a black sewer clean out drain in the front yard.

Open the spigot, turn on the pump, and watch as the excess water drains out.

Once the water reaches your desired level, turn off the pump and remove the hose.

2. Pump Drain Plug

Some pool pumps have a PVC drain plug on the pump body. Use a wrench to carefully remove the plug, then turn on your pump. Water will begin draining immediately.

Keep an eye on your pool level and reinsert the plug once the level looks right.

Need help identifying your pump parts? Contact us - our technicians can walk you through it.

3. Siphon Water with a Garden Hose

Using a garden hose, you can choose to siphon the water out of the pool. This method uses simple physics. Submerge one end of a garden hose in your pool, and then suck gently on the other end until water begins flowing. Place that end in your drain area, making sure it’s lower than the pool.

Water will naturally flow out until the levels equalize.

4. Bail Water Manually

If you have a smaller pool or just a few inches of water to remove, you can bail it out with a bucket. It’s not glamorous, but it works in a pinch.

We recommend waiting until the storm (and lightening) has passed before submerging yourself in the water while bailing it out.

5. Call Your Pool Service for Help

Not comfortable handling it yourself? No problem. Our team at Sunset Pool Care can bring out a motorized pump to lower your pool water quickly and safely. We’ll also check your equipment and chemistry levels while we’re there.

Call us at 480-682-7986 or request service online.

After the Rain: Monitor Your Pool Chemistry

Rainwater dilutes chlorine and alters your pool’s pH balance, which can lead to cloudy or green water if left untreated. Here’s what to do after heavy rainfall:

• Shock your pool with chlorine to sanitize it.

• Test and adjust pH, chlorine, and alkalinity levels.

• Clean out debris from skimmers and the pool floor.

• Rinse or backwash your filter if it collected dirt or leaves.

Keeping your chemistry balanced after a storm prevents algae growth and protects your pool equipment.

When to Call a Pool Professional

If your pool continues to overflow, looks cloudy, or you’re unsure about your water chemistry, call your local pool expert. A professional can:

• Check for drainage or equipment issues

• Rebalance water chemistry

• Clean filters and remove storm debris

They’ll make sure everything’s back in perfect shape so you can enjoy your pool again quickly.

Need Help?

Monsoon season in Arizona brings wild weather - but your pool can handle it! With quick maintenance and the right know-how, you can keep your water clean, clear, and ready for your next swim.

If you’d rather skip the stress and let the experts handle it, Sunset Pool Care offers full-service maintenance and storm cleanup for pools in Chandler, Gilbert, and surrounding areas. Give us a call or request a quote online.

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