Ultimate Guide to Monsoon Pool Care in Arizona

Patrick Wallain
Jun 10
14 min read

Updated: Jun 11

Monsoon season in Arizona (June 15 – September 30) brings heavy rain, dust storms, and high winds that can wreak havoc on your pool. Here’s how you can protect your pool and avoid costly repairs:

Before the season starts:
- Clean your pool thoroughly (skim, vacuum, brush walls, empty baskets).
- Inspect and service equipment (pumps, filters, heaters).
- Trim nearby trees and secure loose items like furniture and toys.
- Avoid draining your pool entirely - lower water levels by 1–2 feet if needed.
During storms:
- Turn off pool equipment to prevent electrical damage.
- Don’t use pool covers during active storms - they can be damaged by wind and debris.
After storms:
- Remove debris immediately (skim, vacuum, brush).
- Check and clean filters, skimmer baskets, and pumps.
- Test and rebalance water chemistry (pH, chlorine, alkalinity).
- Shock the pool to prevent algae growth.
Water chemistry tips:
- Test water 2–3 times per week during monsoon season.
- Maintain pH at 7.4–7.8, chlorine at 2–4 ppm, and alkalinity at 80–120 ppm.
- Add algaecide before storms and adjust chemicals after heavy rains.

Professional pool services can simplify maintenance, offering regular cleaning, chemical balancing, and equipment checks. For Arizona residents in areas like Tempe and Chandler, these services can be a lifesaver during the chaotic monsoon months.

Pool Care After a Dust Storm or Monsoon

Pool Preparation Steps Before Monsoon Season

Getting your pool ready ahead of the monsoon season can save you from expensive cleanup and repairs later. Here's how to prepare effectively.

Complete Pool Cleaning and Debris Removal

Start with a thorough cleaning to remove debris and set the stage for managing the extra water and chemical imbalances that come with monsoon rains. Your cleaning routine should include:

Skimming the surface for leaves and twigs
Vacuuming the pool floor
Brushing the walls and steps
Cleaning out all baskets - skimmer, pump, and leaf trap

Make skimming a daily habit to avoid staining and chemical imbalance.

Zac Nicklas of The Pool Boys emphasizes the importance of quick action: "You want to get the debris out of your pool as soon as possible. The longer debris sits in the pool the more likely you are to get stains and have unbalanced water chemistry. Don't wait for your pool cleaner robot to pick the debris up".

By removing debris promptly, you reduce the risk of staining and help maintain balanced water chemistry.

Pool Equipment Check and Service

Ensure your pool equipment is ready to handle the demands of monsoon weather. Inspect pumps, filters, and heaters for any signs of wear, loose connections, or leaks. Addressing these issues now can prevent breakdowns during the season.

Give your filtration system a deep clean. For cartridge filters, rinse them thoroughly; for sand or DE filters, run a backwash cycle. Check your filter pressure weekly, and backwash when the pressure climbs 8–10 psi above normal levels. Don’t forget to clean pump baskets and confirm that skimmers are functioning properly.

Setting Up Pool Covers and Protection

While pool covers can help keep debris out during storms, they can also be vulnerable to high winds [7, 11, 17]. For instance, Phoenix sees about 33% of its yearly rainfall during monsoon season, averaging 2.71 inches [7, 17]. If you opt for a cover, make sure it’s securely anchored with reinforced edges and a wind-resistant anchoring system.

However, many pool experts advise against using covers during active storms due to wind damage risks and the hassle of removing debris-laden covers afterward [7, 11, 17]. Instead, focus on securing the pool area:

Trim trees and bushes around the pool to reduce falling debris [7, 17].
Store loose items like pool toys and patio furniture indoors to prevent them from becoming hazards [11, 17].
Protect electrical equipment by switching off breakers before storms to avoid power surges [7, 17].

Water Level Control During Monsoon Storms

Managing water levels during Arizona’s monsoon season is a must. Phoenix alone gets about 33% of its annual rainfall during this time, averaging 2.71 inches. That might not sound like much, but it can overwhelm unprepared pools quickly. Let’s dive into why draining your pool entirely before a storm is a bad idea and how to handle water levels properly.

Why You Shouldn't Drain Your Pool Before Storms

Draining your pool completely before a monsoon storm is a mistake. It might seem like a good idea to prevent overflow, but it can lead to severe structural issues and hefty repair bills. The water in your pool isn’t just for swimming - it acts as a stabilizer, keeping the structure secure during heavy rains and high winds.

Here’s the problem: when you drain your pool, you remove the pressure that balances the force of the surrounding soil. Without that water, the structure is vulnerable to cracking and even shifting.

"All that extra water on the outside of even a partially drained pool could cause the pool to crack or even to 'pop' up out of the ground, causing leaks, major damage to plumbing and electrical wiring, and possibly cause the decking structure to heave." – Yvonne Florian, Home Educator, University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences

Empty pools also risk liner damage, equipment malfunctions, and voided warranties. If you’re worried about overflow, lower the water level by 1 to 2 feet maximum before a storm - but never drain it entirely. The weight of the water helps anchor your pool and prevents damage from saturated soil.

Once you understand the structural risks, the next step is managing water levels during and after storms.

Checking and Adjusting Water Levels

After prepping your pool for a storm, keeping an eye on water levels is critical. Ideally, the water should sit at the middle of the skimmer to ensure proper filtration. During heavy rains, monitor closely to make sure the water doesn’t reach the top of the tile line.

When the storm passes, check your pool immediately. If it’s overfilled, you’ve got a few safe ways to lower the water level. The City of Chandler, Arizona, suggests turning off your autofill valve for a few days to a week, allowing evaporation to naturally bring the level back down. Another option is backwashing your pool filter, but only if your filter actually needs cleaning.

For pools that are nearly overflowing, use a submersible pump or siphon system to remove excess water quickly. You can also use your filter’s ‘waste’ setting, which safely directs water out of the pool.

Important drainage rules: In cities like Scottsdale, Mesa, Phoenix, Chandler, and Surprise, it’s illegal to drain pool water into the street. Always direct water to areas on your property where it can safely soak into the ground without causing erosion or damaging your pool equipment.

Keeping your pool’s water levels in check during monsoon season isn’t just about avoiding overflow - it’s about protecting your investment. Proper water management ensures your pool stays functional, safe, and structurally sound through Arizona’s intense summer storms.

Pool Cleanup and Care After Storms

Once the monsoon has passed, taking immediate and organized steps to clean up is essential to keep your pool safe and in good condition. While pre-storm preparation helps, the post-storm cleanup process is just as important. After a storm, your pool may be littered with debris and look far from inviting. With a clear plan and attention to safety, you can bring it back to its pristine state.

Removing Debris and Checking Equipment

Safety first. Before doing anything else, turn off the electricity and gas connected to your pool equipment to avoid any electrical hazards.

"Even if there's only a little bit of flooding around the pool, prioritize safety by shutting off the electricity and gas to your pool equipment before you start working on the pool." – Leslie's Pool Supplies

Start by skimming the surface to remove large debris. After that, focus on vacuuming to clear out sediment left by heavy rains, then brush the walls and floors to loosen any remaining dirt. Make sure to vacuum before brushing to avoid stirring up settled debris. Pay extra attention to corners and steps, where debris often collects.

Empty and rinse the skimmer and pump baskets to restore proper water flow. Once that's done, clean or backwash your pool filter to ensure it’s working efficiently.

Inspect all pool equipment for any damage. Look for signs like water damage, leaks, strange noises, or visible wear and tear. If your pump motor was submerged and tried to run during the storm, it’s likely damaged and may need replacement.

Dry out any wet equipment thoroughly and wait at least 24 hours before turning it back on. If something isn’t working or shows signs of trouble, turn it off immediately and call a pool repair professional. Don’t try to force malfunctioning equipment to run, as it could cause further damage.

Once the debris is cleared and your equipment is in good shape, it’s time to focus on balancing the water chemistry and restoring clarity.

Pool Shocking and Chemical Adjustment

Storms can throw off your pool's chemical balance by diluting chemicals, lowering pH and alkalinity, and introducing organic material that promotes algae growth. Use a reliable test kit to check the water’s key parameters:

pH: 7.4–7.6
Total alkalinity: 80–120 ppm
Chlorine: 1–3 ppm
Calcium hardness: 200–400 ppm
Cyanuric acid: 30–50 ppm

Start by adjusting the pH and alkalinity. If the pH is too low, add sodium bicarbonate or an alkalinity increaser. If it’s too high, use muriatic acid or dry acid to bring it down. Once the chemical levels are balanced, shock the pool with calcium hypochlorite or liquid chlorine. Then, run the pump and filter for 8–12 hours to circulate the chemicals properly.

For saltwater pools, you’ll need to take a few extra steps. Check and adjust the salt levels to stay between 2,700 and 3,400 ppm, monitor the chlorine output from the generator, balance the pH and stabilizer levels, and clean the salt cell. After balancing the chemicals, keep the pump running for at least 24 hours to ensure everything mixes evenly and the filtration system does its job.

Water Chemistry Control During Monsoon Season

Monsoon rains can throw off your pool's delicate balance by introducing acidic rainwater and various contaminants, often leading to algae blooms. Staying proactive during this season is the key to keeping your pool safe, clean, and inviting.

Testing Pool Water More Frequently

During monsoon season, you’ll need to step up your water testing game. Instead of the usual once-a-week routine, test your pool water 2–3 times per week. It’s also a good idea to test both before and after storms to catch any imbalances early.

When testing, focus on these critical parameters:

Free chlorine and pH: Check 2–3 times weekly.
Total alkalinity: Test weekly during the monsoon period.
Calcium hardness: Test monthly.
Stabilizer (cyanuric acid) levels: Test 2–3 times during the season.

Aim for these target ranges:

pH: 7.2 to 7.6
Free chlorine: 2.0 to 4.0 ppm
Total alkalinity: 80–120 ppm

For pools in Arizona, slightly adjust these targets to a pH of 7.4 to 7.8 and total chlorine levels between 2–4 ppm.

"Maintaining pool chemistry in Arizona is about 90% of your pool maintenance battle plan!" – Luv2Swim

When making chemical adjustments, start by correcting total alkalinity to the 80–120 ppm range. Afterward, wait about six hours before retesting and adjusting the pH as needed.

Once your water is balanced, it’s time to tackle the effects of rainwater and prevent algae from taking hold.

Managing Rainwater and Preventing Algae

Rainwater can disrupt your pool’s chemistry in more ways than one. With a naturally acidic pH of around 5.6, rain lowers your pool’s pH levels. As it falls, it also collects dust, pollen, pollutants, and algae spores, introducing these contaminants into your pool.

Heavy rainfall, especially at rates of 1–2 inches per hour, can damage water quality, pool surfaces, and even equipment. The acidic water weakens your pool’s sanitation systems, making it easier for bacteria to thrive. Plus, rainwater’s nitrogen content creates the perfect environment for algae growth, while runoff can elevate phosphate levels and lead to cloudy water.

To stay ahead of these problems:

Before a storm: Balance your pH and alkalinity, and add algaecide to counteract incoming contaminants.
After a storm: Test your water immediately and adjust chemicals as needed. Start by skimming debris from the surface, then run your filter. If the rain has caused water levels to rise significantly, drain the excess water and rebalance your chemicals.

For post-storm adjustments, shocking your pool with extra chlorine is essential to kill off any developing algae. Keep a close eye on pH and alkalinity levels during this process. If the pH has dropped, add baking soda - about 1.5 pounds per 10,000 gallons of water should do the trick.

"Rainwater is usually acidic, so it will naturally lower your pool water's pH." – Pinch A Penny

While it might seem like heavy rain dilutes your pool chemicals, the reality is different. Adding an inch of rainwater to a 20,000-gallon pool only increases the overall water volume by about 2%. The real challenge lies in the acidic water and contaminants disrupting your pool’s chemical balance.

For pool owners in Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, and Mesa, Shine Pools offers specialized monitoring and chemical maintenance services to help you navigate monsoon season with ease.

Professional Pool Services During Monsoon Season

Dealing with your pool during Arizona's monsoon season can feel like an uphill battle. The sudden storms, debris, and chemical imbalances can leave many homeowners feeling stressed. That’s where professional pool services come in - they take the hassle out of pool care, ensuring your pool stays clean, safe, and ready for use, no matter how unpredictable the weather gets. These services also make ongoing maintenance easier, offering seamless pre- and post-storm care.

Weekly Cleaning and Chemical Care

Arizona’s desert climate is tough on pools, and during monsoon season, those challenges multiply. The intense heat, swirling dust, and strong UV rays can quickly upset your pool’s water balance and strain your equipment. Add in the chaos of monsoon storms, and keeping your pool in good shape becomes a full-time job.

"Arizona's sunshine might be perfect for pool days, but the desert climate also brings unique challenges that can quickly throw off your water chemistry or damage your equipment. That's why weekly pool service isn't just convenient. It's essential."
Desert Pool Service & Construction

Weekly professional services cover all the bases. This includes skimming, vacuuming, brushing, and thorough equipment checks, like inspecting filters, pumps, and pipes. Professionals also ensure your water chemistry stays on point, which is critical for safety. Between 2009 and 2017, over 4,500 emergency room visits were linked to pool chemical mishaps. Trained technicians handle these chemicals safely, keeping your pool swim-ready.

During monsoon season, professionals often go the extra mile by applying preventative algaecides and stain treatments before storms hit. Afterward, they’ll perform super-chlorination or shocking to eliminate microorganisms brought in by rain and debris. This proactive care helps maintain a clean and healthy pool environment.

Equipment Checks and Repairs

Monsoon storms can take a toll on your pool equipment, making regular inspections even more important. Routine checks help identify issues like wear and tear, leaks, or loose connections before they turn into expensive problems. After a storm, technicians inspect critical components - like skimmers, pumps, and electrical systems - to ensure everything is running smoothly, especially when dealing with the increased debris load.

Storm-related problems often include murky or brown water, algae growth, or cloudiness caused by runoff and contaminants. Here’s how a Poolwerx representative describes the impact of monsoon storms:

"During a rainstorm, dust and debris gets washed into your pool, phosphates get deposited into your water and your chlorine, salt and minerals get diluted."
Poolwerx

Professional services tackle these challenges head-on, addressing water clarity issues and preventing costly mistakes. They also help ensure your pool meets health and safety standards. After a storm, technicians often run pumps continuously for 24 to 48 hours to circulate treated water and restore balance.

Custom Care Plans from Shine Pools

Beyond routine cleaning and equipment checks, Shine Pools offers tailored care plans to help pool owners navigate the monsoon season. Serving areas like Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, and Mesa, their comprehensive programs are designed to meet the unique demands of the season. Weekly cleaning services include everything from debris removal and wall brushing to tile cleaning, basket and filter maintenance, and regular chemical adjustments.

For homeowners who prefer to handle basic cleaning themselves, Shine Pools provides a chemical-only maintenance option. This service ensures expert oversight of water chemistry, which is especially helpful during monsoon season when imbalances are more likely. They offer this option for both traditional and saltwater pools.

Shine Pools also specializes in equipment repairs and upgrades, offering a one-year warranty on their work. They service equipment from all major brands and provide energy-efficient motor upgrades. These upgrades not only help your pool system handle the demands of monsoon season but also lower energy costs, giving you extra peace of mind during these challenging months.

Conclusion: Protecting Your Pool During Arizona's Monsoon Season

Arizona's monsoon season brings unique challenges for pool owners, but with proper preparation and timely care, you can keep your pool in great shape. A combination of proactive measures, consistent upkeep, and professional assistance can make all the difference in maintaining a clean and safe pool.

Getting ahead of the storms is crucial. Start by thoroughly cleaning your pool, servicing the equipment, and balancing the water chemistry before the monsoon season begins. It's best to avoid draining your pool or using a cover during storms, as these actions can lead to unintended damage. Instead, secure any loose items around the pool area and consider cutting power to your pool equipment during severe storms to prevent electrical issues.

After each storm, act quickly. Remove debris, check your pool equipment for any damage, and test the water chemistry to ensure everything is in order. Prompt action helps your pool recover faster and prevents further complications. As noted by the City of Chandler:

"Monsoon season can make it hard to use your pool if you don't take the time to clean and restore the water to make it usable."

This highlights the importance of addressing post-storm maintenance promptly to keep your pool ready for use.

Professional care can be a game-changer during the monsoon months. Heavy rains and strong winds can overwhelm your pool, bringing in debris and putting extra strain on your filtration system. Regular maintenance ensures minor issues don’t turn into costly repairs and keeps your pool functioning smoothly.

For homeowners in Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, and Mesa, Shine Pools offers expert pool care services, including debris removal, chemical balancing, equipment inspections, and repairs. Their services, backed by a one-year warranty, provide peace of mind during Arizona's stormy season.

FAQs

What’s the best way to lower my pool’s water level before a monsoon storm without damaging it?

To prepare your pool for a monsoon storm, it's important to lower the water level safely. Drain the pool to about 1 to 2 feet below the skimmer. This precaution helps prevent overflow and minimizes the chance of structural damage from heavy rainfall. Before you start draining, remember to turn off the pool pump and electrical systems to protect your equipment from potential damage.

Once the storm has passed, check the water level and bring it back to normal if necessary. Clear out any debris, test the water to ensure the chemical levels are balanced, and make adjustments as needed. These steps will help keep your pool clean, safe, and ready for use.

How do I rebalance my pool's water chemistry after a monsoon storm?

After a monsoon storm, getting your pool's water chemistry back on track is a must to keep it clean and safe for swimming. Start by clearing out debris like leaves, dirt, and any other materials that may have blown into the pool. These not only clutter the water but can also introduce contaminants that mess with your chemical balance.

Next, test the water's chemistry - specifically pH, chlorine, and alkalinity levels. Rainwater tends to be acidic, which can lower both pH and alkalinity. Ideally, you want the pH to sit between while keeping chlorine levels in the recommended range.

If the water needs a reset, consider shocking the pool. This process temporarily spikes the chlorine levels to kill off any contaminants and stop algae in its tracks. During monsoon season, storms can throw off your water chemistry quickly, so it’s smart to test and adjust chemical levels more often - about two to three times a week. Staying ahead of these changes ensures your pool remains sparkling and swim-ready throughout the season.

Why shouldn’t I use a pool cover during monsoon storms, and what are better ways to protect my pool?

During monsoon storms, using a pool cover might seem like a good idea, but it’s actually not recommended. Strong winds and falling debris can tear or dislodge the cover, creating safety risks and making cleanup even harder. Plus, covers can trap water and debris, which encourages bacteria and algae to thrive - turning post-storm maintenance into a bigger headache.

Instead, take a few practical steps to safeguard your pool. Secure any loose items around the pool area to prevent them from becoming projectiles. Shut off pool equipment to protect it from potential power surges. If you feel a cover is necessary, a mesh cover can be a better option. It helps reduce debris while letting rainwater drain through.

Once the storm passes, clear out any debris right away and test your pool’s water chemistry. This ensures the water stays balanced and safe for swimming.