How to Prepare Your Pool for a Hurricane in Southwest Florida

By Judson, owner of Manasota Pool Service | Last updated November 2026

Quick answer: To prepare your pool for a hurricane, do not drain it. Lower the water only slightly if heavy rain is expected, add extra chlorine, turn off power to the pool equipment at the breaker, remove loose items from the deck, and protect or secure equipment where possible. A full pool is heavier and safer than an empty one during a storm.

Should you drain your pool before a hurricane?

No. Draining a pool before a hurricane is one of the most common and costly mistakes. In Southwest Florida, heavy rain raises groundwater, and that pressure can push an empty or partly empty pool out of the ground, cracking the shell and plumbing. The water also helps protect the pool's surface from flying debris.

If a lot of rain is expected, you can lower the water a small amount (often no more than about a foot) to give it room to rise. Check with your pool professional if you're unsure.

Hurricane pool prep checklist

1. Remove loose items. Bring in deck furniture, toys, floats, cleaning tools and planters. Anything left outside can become a projectile or end up in your pool.
2. Keep the water level normal or slightly lowered. Never drain the pool.
3. Add extra chlorine. Shocking the pool before the storm helps fight the debris, rainwater and contamination that follow. Wait until close to the storm so the chlorine isn't used up early.
4. Turn off power to the pool equipment. Switch off the pump, heater, lights and salt system at the breaker to protect them from power surges and flooding.
5. Protect equipment if you can. Some homeowners wrap pumps and motors in waterproof plastic. If your equipment sits in a low, flood-prone area, ask a licensed pool contractor about your options.
6. Remove the skimmer lid only if advised. Practices vary, so follow your pool company's recommendation.
7. Secure pool chemicals. Store them in a dry, high place, away from each other and away from where floodwater could reach them.
8. Take photos of your pool, enclosure and equipment for insurance.
9. Know your screen enclosure. Screen panels can tear in high winds. Some homeowners remove a few panels to reduce wind load; ask your enclosure company before doing this.

Should you throw patio furniture in the pool during a hurricane?

It's generally better to bring furniture inside a garage or home. Furniture in the pool can scratch the surface, leach rust or dye, and damage tile. If you have no other option, lightweight plastic resin furniture causes the least harm, but remove it promptly after the storm.

When should you start preparing your pool?

Start 24 to 48 hours before the storm is expected, once a hurricane watch or warning is issued for your area. Turning off equipment should be one of your last steps before you leave or shelter in place.

What should you do after the storm?

Don't swim or turn equipment back on right away. Check for electrical hazards first, then remove debris and rebalance the water. See our guide: What to Do With Your Pool After a Hurricane.

Hurricane-season pool service in Englewood and South Venice

Manasota Pool Service helps homeowners throughout Englewood, Manasota Key and South Venice keep their pools safe through hurricane season. Our Peace of Mind plan includes priority cleanup after storms, and every plan includes a photo report after every visit, so seasonal residents can see their pool's condition from anywhere.

Get a free quote or see our plans.

Frequently asked questions

Should I drain my pool before a hurricane?

No. An empty pool can be pushed out of the ground by rising groundwater. Keep it full, or lower the water only slightly if heavy rain is expected.

Should I turn off my pool pump during a hurricane?

Yes. Turn off the pump, heater, lights and salt system at the breaker before the storm to protect them from surges and flooding.

Should I add chlorine before a hurricane?

Yes. Shocking the pool shortly before the storm helps it handle debris and rainwater, making cleanup easier afterward.

Should I put my patio furniture in the pool?

It's better to store furniture indoors. Furniture in the pool can damage the surface and tile.

When should I start hurricane prep for my pool?

Begin 24 to 48 hours before the storm, once a watch or warning is issued.