Stormy weather can roll in fast here in New Zealand, and your spa pool might not be the first thing on your mind when the wind picks up. But with a few simple precautions, you can keep your spa safe from damage – and make post-storm cleanup a breeze.

Here’s how to prepare your spa pool before a storm, and what to check once the skies clear.

Before the Storm: How to Prepare Your Spa Pool

1. Lock Down the Cover The most important step is securing your spa cover. Make sure the cover clips or locks are fastened tightly. If your spa is in an exposed area, consider using additional straps to keep the cover in place. A flying spa cover can cause major damage – to your spa and anything nearby.

2. Clear the Surroundings Remove outdoor furniture, umbrellas, toys, and anything else that could be blown into your spa pool. These items can scratch or damage the spa shell, or even break the cover if tossed around by strong winds.

3. Turn Off Power (If Necessary) If the forecast is calling for severe lightning or flooding, it’s wise to turn off the power at the main switch. This helps protect your spa’s control panel and electrical components from surges or water damage.

4. Check the Drainage Around Your Spa Make sure rainwater will flow away from your spa, not toward it. Clear any blocked drains or gutters nearby to reduce the risk of water pooling around the base.

5. Add a Little Extra Sanitiser Storms often introduce leaves, dirt, and other contaminants into spa water. Add a touch of sanitiser (like BioGuard Spa Sanitiser or FreshWater® Spa Salt) to help keep the water clean until you can check it properly.

After the Storm: What to Do Next

1. Inspect the Spa and Cover Look for any visible damage to the spa shell, cover, or steps. Remove debris like leaves or branches from the top of the cover before opening it.

2. Check the Water Quality Storms can throw off your water balance. Test your spa water using test strips or bring a sample into The Spa Shop for a free water test. You may need to adjust pH, alkalinity, or sanitiser levels to get things back on track.

3. Clean the Filters Storm debris can clog up your filters quickly. Rinse them thoroughly with a hose, or use a cleaning product like BioGuard Filter Renew for a deeper clean if needed.

4. Inspect the Equipment If your spa was exposed to heavy rain or flooding, check the control panel and electrical components for moisture or signs of damage before turning the power back on. When in doubt, give us a call – our service team is happy to help.

5. Freshen the Water (If Needed) If the water looks murky or smells off, it might be time for a drain and refill. Use BioGuard Swirl Away to clean the plumbing lines before refilling for best results.

Need Help? The Spa Shop Has You Covered.

Whether you're preparing for a storm or recovering from one, The Spa Shop is here to help. From quality spa covers and water care products to expert advice, we’ve got everything you need to keep your spa pool in top shape – rain or shine.

Got questions about storm protection or water care? Contact us at sales@thespashop.co.nz or visit us in-store.