Gotta make sure the water’s fine before you come on in
There’s no sweeter sendoff to winter than finally opening your swimming pool again. Before you can swap your coat for a swimsuit and start blowing up your flamingo floatie, you’ll need to dive into your pool’s opening protocol. Here’s how to prepare your pool for a splash-worthy spring and summer.
When you’re getting ready to open your swimming pool, clear the cover of any leaves, debris, and water that accumulated over the months. Start by pushing the debris off the cover with a push broom. If needed, use your pool skimmer net for extra scooping. Then, use a sump pump or pool cover pump to drain the water out.
Once the cover is clear, remove it from the pool. Grab a few friends to help you lift it off and lay it flat on the ground. Clean it off with soap and water, allow it to dry fully, and fold it up for storage.
Before connecting the pump, heater, filter, and other devices, examine them for signs of damage. If you notice cracks or serious wear, you will likely need to replace the equipment. For worn rubber O-rings around the pipes and drain plugs, you can find a replacement at your local hardware or pool supply store.
If you installed winterizing drain plugs when you closed your pool, swap these out for summer plugs. There are plugs on the pump, filter, heater, and any other external plumbing hardware.
Once you’re sure everything is in working order, reconnect your heater, pump, filters, and any other equipment you use for your pool. Reinforce the connections with thread seal tape to prevent any leaks.
Now’s the time to install your ladders, diving board, and other accessories. Be sure to inspect for rust and structural damage before adding them to the pool.
Prior to running your pump and other equipment, use your garden hose to refill the swimming pool. Fill it about halfway up to the tile line and skimmer baskets.
After your pool is filled and hooked up to the equipment, open up the return valves on the pump system by turning them counterclockwise. If you have filter valves and air bleed valves, open these up as well.
Ensure the circuit breaker attached to the pump is on, then activate the pump and let it run. Check for plumbing leaks and other problems with the pool and its equipment. Allow the pump to run for at least two hours to get it back in working order.
Once everything’s up and running, grab a sample of your water and use a water testing kit to determine its chemistry. Check total alkalinity, pH level, and calcium hardiness, just as you would for your normal pool maintenance routine. Use the appropriate pool chemicals to bring your water to a safe level for swimming.
Even the most secure pool cover doesn’t keep all the junk out over the winter. Thoroughly brush down the walls and vacuum the floor to get rid of any lingering debris. Allow your filter to run overnight to remove any leftover spores and other contaminants.
The last step for opening your swimming pool is adding the pool shock chemical and algaecide to the water. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the chemicals, then allow the system to run for at least two hours. While you’re waiting, get your suit on and start blowing up your pool floats, because you’re good to jump in afterward!
Feeling a little in over your head? Don’t sweat it—many pool owners opt for professional pool opening services, as the DIY approach can be pretty tricky. Get in touch with a local pool opening service to get your pool fresh, clean, and summer-ready.
