Getting too hot? It’s time to step into the pool. Wait! Is it still closed? And you’re looking for how to open it and get it ready for summer. Find this information in this post where we have listed ten steps to get your pool ready for summer.
1. Should you empty the pool when not in use?
Never. If you do, you will most probably end up with the need of pool replacement. The pool can pop up and become useless if there’s no water to keep it down. It’s better if you bookmark this winter pool maintenance post to make sure you’re prepared for the winter as well (we know it’s in your resolutions list. Isn’t it?)
2. When is the right time to open the pool?
Please don’t wait until June to open up the pool. It is good to do it as early as possible. Here are some reasons why:
- If you sweat a lot, opening the pool all by yourself would be much easier when you do it in not-so-hot climate.
- The Early opening would reduce the algae growth. A covered pool in a warm climate is the perfect condition for these to grow. Better remove that cover and get your pool ready before it happens.
- There are good deals on pool service equipment during the early days of summer (or last days of spring).
3. Get ready for opening your pool – equipment
If you’re hiring a professional pool service for this, you can easily skip this step. But if you plan to do it yourself, it’s better if you pick up all the necessary equipment for pool cleaning beforehand. A spring cleaning kit, vacuum head, skimmer head, vacuum pump, telescopic pole, pool brush and test kit are the must have pool cleaning equipment according to us.
Also, it’s a superb idea if you have some help, maybe a friend or your family member, to help you with this activity. Doing it all alone is very tiresome and tough.
4. Remove the winter debris
If you closed your pool for winter, there’s a high chance that the pool cover has lots of leaves and dirt on it. Blow away all this debris before you remove the cover. If there’s water, use a pump to remove it. Under no conditions should you let this water mix up in your pool water.
5. Remove the cover
Now that the cover is clear, remove it. Spread it in an open area and spray the water at the highest pressure the hose allows. Once it’s clean and dry, spread a layer of talcum powder (this will prevent the cover from sticking when you fold it). Fold the cover. Store it in a cool place.
6. Check the water level of the pool
Ensure that the water is in the middle of the skimmer opening. It’s necessary for proper water circulation. If the water level is low, let the pool fill up. Meanwhile, check the ladders and handrails for loose bolts.
7. Get the filter system running
We hope you face crystal clear water. Don’t panic if it’s all green and gross. You need to get the filters running immediately. Check the pumps, hoses and filters to see if they are functioning properly. Then let the filter run for around 12 hours. The amount varies according to how dirty and big your pool is.
8. Get the water tested
We recommend that you get the water pH tested by a pro. You can also take the sample to the nearest pool supply store and get it tested for free (if you’re lucky). Do this after the pump has run for 8-12 hours. If you have a pH kit (looks like you took our ‘grab the equipment’ point too seriously), take a sample at least 18 inches below the water’s surface and away from the pump inlet. Follow the instructions that come with the kit to find out the exact pH level.
Why did we recommend a pro? Because a pro will test water alkalinity, chlorine and mineral levels along with the pH. Their test would obviously be more precise as they are trained to do that while you might be doing this the very first time.
9. Some more things you need to do
Run a pool vacuum to remove off the small debris particles from the pool surface. Use your skimming nets the vacuum won’t clear off bigger particles. Use a pool brush to clean off the walls (or just hope there’s no algae build-up in your pool).
10. When is the pool completely ready?
It would take almost a week for your pool to be ready for use. Ensure that you run the pump each day for a set period and let the water become entirely clear. Make sure the chemical levels – pH and chlorine are safe for you to swim.
Don’t forget to maintain your pool regularly. If it sounds like a big task for you, hire a pool maintenance service which will usually do the work for you during the entire season. It’s much easier to find a reliable service and let them do the job than reminding yourself to do it and working on it. Isn’t it?
It always boils down to what suits you. You have the enough information to get started with opening your pool for summer. If you have some questions, leave them in the comments below. We will ask our pool service experts to reply back immediately.
