As the warmer months approach, it’s time to get your pool back in shape for another fun season of swimming. Trying to open a pool after it’s been closed for the winter can seem like a daunting task, but with the right steps and a little bit of patience, you’ll have your pool sparkling in no time. In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to do to open your pool for the season, so you can enjoy clear, clean water all summer long.

Step 1: Remove the Pool Cover

The first step when going to open your pool is to remove the winter cover. If you used a solid cover (the type that prevents leaves and debris from entering), be careful as you take it off to avoid spilling debris into the water. If you have a mesh cover, you may find that some debris has already fallen through it, so have your skimmer handy.

• Tip: Lay the cover out to dry on a clean surface. You’ll want to clean it before storing it for the season, and it’s easier to do so when it’s dry.
• Pro Tip: If you stored your cover indoors, check it for any mold or mildew before putting it back for the off-season. This will save you trouble next year.

Step 2: Clean the Pool Area

Before you focus on the water itself, take some time to tidy up around your pool. Remove any leaves, branches, or debris that may have accumulated over the winter. This will make the process of opening your pool much easier.

• Check for any pests: If you had any small critters taking up residence near your pool, clear those out too!
• Set up pool equipment: Make sure all your pool equipment (like ladders, handrails, and diving boards) is in place and secured.

Step 3: Check Pool Equipment

Before turning on the pump and filter system, inspect your pool equipment for any signs of damage or wear. This is the time to ensure everything is in good condition and ready to run smoothly. Here’s what to check:

• Pump: Ensure the pump is intact, and check the impeller and basket for any debris. If there’s any visible damage, now is the time to fix or replace it.
• Filter: Examine the filter for signs of wear. If it’s a cartridge filter, clean it thoroughly, or replace the cartridges if needed. If you use a sand or DE filter, backwash the system to clear out any buildup from the off-season.
• Skimmers and Return Jets: Make sure your skimmers and return jets are properly attached and free from blockages. Clear any debris that may have collected during the winter months.

Step 4: Refill the Pool

If your pool’s water level has dropped over the winter (either from evaporation or drainage), you’ll need to refill it. The water level should be high enough to reach the midpoint of your skimmer. This ensures the skimmer works properly and can remove debris from the surface.

• Tip: If you have a cover with a built-in pump, make sure to remove any standing water on top of the cover before removing it.

Step 5: Start the Pool Equipment

Once you’ve inspected everything and refilled the pool, it’s time to turn on your equipment. Here’s how to get the water circulating:

1. Prime the Pump: If your pump has been off for a while, you’ll need to prime it before turning it on. Fill the pump with water to remove any air and ensure proper suction.
2. Turn On the Filter: Start the filter system and let it run for a few hours to begin circulating the water. It’s normal for the water to be cloudy at first, especially if the pool has been closed for a while.
3. Check for Leaks: As the system begins to run, keep an eye on your pump and filter for any signs of leaks. If you notice any issues, turn everything off and inspect the source of the problem before continuing.

Step 6: Test and Balance the Pool Water

With your equipment running, the next step is to test the water’s chemistry. After sitting through the winter, your pool’s water chemistry will likely be off, so balancing it is essential for maintaining clear, safe water. Here’s how to get started:

1. Test the pH: The pH should be between 7.2 and 7.6. Adjust with a pH increaser or decreaser as needed.
2. Check Chlorine Levels: Chlorine is essential for keeping the water sanitized and free of harmful bacteria. The ideal range is between 1.0 and 3.0 ppm. Add chlorine tablets or liquid chlorine to achieve the right level.
3. Alkalinity: The total alkalinity should be between 80 and 120 ppm. Use an alkalinity increaser if necessary.
4. Calcium Hardness: The ideal range for calcium hardness is between 200 and 400 ppm. Low calcium can cause damage to your pool surfaces, while high levels can lead to scaling.
5. Add Shock Treatment: If the pool water is cloudy or the chlorine level is low, adding a pool shock treatment will help kill off any algae or bacteria lingering in the water. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct dosage.

Step 7: Clean the Pool

Once the chemicals are balanced, it’s time to give your pool a good cleaning. You may notice debris that the filter missed, especially if it’s been sitting unused for a while. Here’s how to clean your pool thoroughly:

• Skim the Surface: Use a skimmer net to remove any floating debris, leaves, or insects from the water surface.
• Brush the Walls: Use a pool brush to scrub the walls and floor of the pool. This will help remove any dirt or algae that may have accumulated over the winter.
• Vacuum the Pool: Use a manual or automatic pool vacuum to clean the bottom of the pool and get rid of any debris that has settled there.

Step 8: Monitor and Maintain Your Pool

After opening your pool, keep a close eye on the water quality over the next few days. It may take some time for the chemicals to fully balance and for the water to clear up. Continue to run the pump and filter, and monitor the chemical levels until the water is sparkling clear. Make any necessary adjustments as needed.

• Weekly Maintenance: Once your pool is fully open, make sure to test the water and clean the pool at least once a week to maintain optimal water quality throughout the season.

Conclusion

Opening a pool might seem like a big task, but with the right steps, it’s totally manageable. By cleaning and inspecting your equipment, balancing the water chemistry, and keeping up with regular maintenance, your pool will be ready for summer fun in no time. Remember, the key to a successful pool opening is taking it step by step, so you can enjoy clear, sparkling water all season long! By following these steps, you’ll confidently open your pool each season and enjoy a hassle-free, refreshing swim all summer long!

Have questions about how to open your pool? Our team is more than happy to help!