Get ready, America! Blizzard Jonas is headed our way! You have likely conducted routine pool maintenance in preparation of the winter months, and wisely covered your pool – ensuring that there are no gaps or cracks in the cover that will allow debris through. According to the National Weather Service, a winter storm is classified as a “blizzard” when a considerable amount of snowfall is paired with winds upwards of 35 mph and visibilities of less than 1/4 mile for at least three hours. But what does this massive pile up mean for your pool cover? Let’s find out.
Good News!
While pool covers should always remain clear of water and snow build up, the good news is that it would take a pretty seriously hefty amount of snow and water to cause irreversible damage to your pool cover. Of course, this depends on what kind of pool and cover you have. If you have an above ground swimming pool, heavy snow or rain can weigh the cover down and pull the walls of the pool towards the center, causing damage. With an inground pool, excessive heavy snow or rain can result in your safety cover anchors popping out, causing damage. Remember, this is in severe cases. Most covers are equipped to handle a reasonable amount of weight. It doesn’t hurt to do your best to push snow off of the cover – do NOT use anything with a sharp edge to do this – try something plastic, a broom or a leaf blower.
When to Worry
When you are deciding to clear your pool cover of snow, be sure to leave at least six inches of snow on the cover to hold it down, in the event of severe and potentially dangerous wind gusts. Follow these guidelines, so you know when to worry about your pool cover and when to let the melting process do its job:
- 1 to 2 Feet of Snow: You have nothing to worry about.
- 2 to 3 Feet of Snow: Stay calm, your pool cover is not quite in the Danger Zone, but keep a close eye on it and clear what you can if you’re comfortable doing so.
- 3 to 5 Feet of Snow: Take immediate action! Clear as much snow and debris as you can, as quickly as possible.
Get a New Swimming Pool and Pay Off Your Bills
January is the perfect time to start planning for your new swimming pool, spa or hot tub. Don’t delay, make 2016 the year your swimming vision becomes a reality! With a pool loan from HFS Financial, you can pay for both your bills and get your new hot tub or spa at the same time! Are you interested in learning more? Contact us today or fill out one of our simple 60-second loan applications!