Living in the Pacific Northwest means we’re no strangers to the “Big Dark.” While our winters are mild, the relentless rainfall can turn your backyard into a drainage challenge. If you own a home swimming pool, you know that managing water levels is a crucial part of winter maintenance. At Haven Spa, Pool & Hearth, with locations in Clackamas, Beaverton, Salem, and Vancouver, we’ve seen how quickly a heavy storm can overwhelm your system. Here is how you can stay ahead of the rain this season. Stop by today.
Monitor Levels to Protect Your Skimmer
Whether you have a traditional outdoor swimming pool or an above-ground pool, the water level should ideally sit at the midpoint of your skimmer. During a typical Northwest downpour, levels can rise rapidly. If the water gets too high, the skimmer can’t effectively clear debris, leading to clogged lines or even structural stress. Check your levels after every major storm to ensure they haven’t crept too high.
Practice Controlled Draining
If you notice your water level is nearing the top of the coping or the rim of your above-ground pool installation, it’s time to drain. Use your pump’s “waste” or “backwash” setting to lower the water by a few inches. For those with Kona pools, which are known for their durability, maintaining that air gap is still vital to prevent overflow that could erode the ground around the pool’s base.
Keep Debris at Bay
Rain rarely comes alone; it usually brings wind and soggy leaves. Keep your covers clear. If heavy debris accumulates on a sagging cover, it can displace water and cause an accidental overflow. A quick sweep or using a cover pump can save you a massive headache later in the spring.
STOP BY A LOCATION TODAY
Managing a pool in the Northwest winter doesn’t have to be a struggle if you stay proactive. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or looking to upgrade to a more resilient system like our Kona pools, the team at Haven Spa, Pool & Hearth is here to help. Stop by today.