1. Confirm the pool and equipment are safe
Wait until hazardous weather has passed. Check that the pool bottom is visible and look for damaged equipment, leaks, flooding, displaced covers, or electrical concerns. Keep swimmers out until visibility, circulation, and water conditions are safe.
2. Remove large debris first
Use a leaf net or skimmer to remove branches, leaves, and larger material before running a cleaner through it. Empty the skimmer and pump baskets as needed so debris does not restrict water flow.
3. Brush and vacuum settled dust
Brush steps, walls, corners, and low-circulation areas so material can be collected. Vacuum using the method appropriate for your pool and equipment. Fine dust may require more than one pass; avoid rushing into multiple chemical corrections when physical removal and filtration still have work to do.
4. Watch return flow and filter pressure
Compare the gauge with the pool's clean-filter baseline. A rising reading with weaker return flow may indicate increasing restriction as the filter captures debris. A low or unstable reading can point to a different flow problem. Follow the filter manufacturer's procedure instead of relying on one universal PSI number.
5. Test before adjusting
Test with a reliable method after the initial debris removal and circulation check. Use the results, pool volume, sanitizer system, and current product directions to decide what—if anything—needs adjustment. Never mix pool chemicals, and do not add several products at once.
6. Recheck after circulation
Allow filtration and circulation time appropriate to the pool and treatment directions. Then recheck water clarity, baskets, cleaner operation, filter pressure, and water-test results. Record what changed so the next storm is easier to manage.
When cloudy water needs more attention
Persistent cloudiness can involve suspended debris, insufficient filtration, circulation problems, algae, testing error, or water-balance issues. If the bottom is not visible, keep the pool closed. Seek qualified help if equipment is damaged, readings conflict, or clarity does not improve after careful cleaning, filtration, and testing.