Monsoon weather happens in Arizona towards the middle of summer and generates a lot of dust and organic deposits in my swimming pool.
This weather pattern happens when the temperature rises and starts robbing everything of moisture, which is returned in thunderstorms, humidity, and swimming pool frustration.
Read more about monsoon weather…
As a pool owner in monsoon country, I’ve learned that watching the water level and skimming daily during storms saves the pump and keeps the pool from turning into a mud pit.
At a glance: Monsoon season means extra debris, evaporation, and low water levels that can damage your pump. Stay on top of skimming, water level, backwashing, and chemicals—and consider an automatic water leveler if you have an older pool.
Monsoon Swimming Pool Problems
During this time of the year, I have to replenish gallons and gallons of water that have evaporated.
I also spend more time removing trash, leaves, and palm debris from the bottom of the pool…
…And to make it worse, a layer of dirt is always waiting to be vacuumed daily.
Monsoon season causes filters to plug, drains to clog, and pumps to run dry when the pool water drops too low, and the air starts seeping into the system.
If I’m not vigilant with the pool water level, I am woken up by my pool pump hiccuping at 2 AM because the pool water is too low and the system is sucking air.
This problem is one of the flaws in older pools that don’t have an automatic pool water leveling system, and it’s also not good for the pump to run dry!
The Price of DIY Pool Service
As my DIY pool service, monsoon season is the busiest and most challenging time of the year for me…
…And unless I am willing to pay for swimming pool service, there’s nothing for me to do except wait it out and keep servicing the swimming pool by:
- Removing the debris
- Monitoring the pool water chemicals
- Make sure the pool water level is good
- Back-washing the system
- Maintaining the drains and filters clean
Conclusion:
Swimming pools are fun but a lot of work, especially during monsoon season!
Key takeaways: In monsoon season, check the water level daily, skim and vacuum often, backwash when pressure rises, and keep chemicals balanced. Protecting the pump from running dry and keeping the filter clear will get you through the storms.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is monsoon season and how does it affect my pool? In the Southwest, monsoon brings intense heat, then thunderstorms with dust, wind, and debris. Pools get dirtier faster, water evaporates quickly, and filters can clog—so maintenance steps up.
Why does my pump make a loud noise or “hiccup” at night? Often the water level has dropped and the pump is sucking air. Fill the pool to the proper level and check for leaks; running the pump dry can damage it.
How often should I check the water level during monsoon? Check daily or after heavy storms. Evaporation and splash-out can drop the level quickly; keep it at least at the midpoint of the skimmer opening.
What is an automatic pool water leveler? A device that adds water when the level gets low, so the pump doesn’t run dry. Helpful in hot, dry, or monsoon-prone areas where evaporation is high.
Why does my filter plug up so fast in summer? Dust, pollen, and organic debris increase with heat and storms. Backwash or clean the filter more often and skim the surface daily to reduce the load.
Can I leave my pool alone during a vacation in monsoon season? Risky. Water level can drop and damage the pump; debris can overwhelm the filter. Have someone check the level and skim, or use an auto leveler and a trusted neighbor.
How do I keep the pool clear during dust storms? Run the pump, skim and vacuum after the storm, and backwash or clean the filter as needed. Adding a clarifier can help fine particles clump for easier filtration.
Does monsoon affect pool chemistry? Yes. Rain can dilute chlorine and change pH; debris adds organics. Test and adjust chemicals after heavy weather and keep chlorine and pH in range.
What if I don’t have an automatic leveler? Check the water level daily and add water with a hose when it’s low. Mark the ideal level on the skimmer so you know when to fill.
Where can I learn more about pool maintenance in harsh weather? Pool Service All covers water level, filters, chemicals, and troubleshooting so you can keep your pool in shape through monsoon and summer heat.