You should always call in a professional to perform opening procedures, but in case you’re a DIYer, here are some tips on opening in-ground pools. Although it is winter, we believe that it is never too early to look to spring and summer to consider the best way to open your pool.
1. Remove Debris From Your Pool Cover
Using a soft broom, remove any dead leaves or other large debris from the winter cover. Then use the pool cover pump to remove any standing water.
2. Remove, clean and put away the pool cover
Asking a friend to help you, lift and fold the cover back and forth, like an accordion. Deploy it on flat ground. Check the condition of the cover as you do this for any tears. Scrub gently with pool deck cleaner and a soft broom.
Rinse the cleaner off and then dry it all out with a towel or even a leaf blower. Refold it and store it inside a storage bag or container. Never place the cover on the floor of your shed or garage, as critters like mice can nest there and poke holes.
3. Skim the pool
Catch any debris that could clog your filtration system when it’s on, using the skimmer.
4. Pull out the plugs
Remove the plugs you put in when you closed the pool for the winter and blew out the pipes.
5. Reinstall accessories
Now is the time to re-install your pool ladder, diving board, ladder rails, slide, and other accessories. Now is a good time to lubricate the bolts and grease the springboard hinges.
6.Add water
Add water using a hose and a hose filter to bring the water up to a normal level.
7. Set up the filter and pump
Install the drain plugs on your pump and filter, lubricate the o-rings for protection, open the valves on the return side, flip the breaker, and turn on the pump. The pump has been primed once the water starts to flow. Wash and replace the filter, then switch the multiport valve to the filter adjustment.
8. Balance the water
Using store-bought test strips or taking a water sample to your local pool supply store, obtain a reference for the water chemistry. Balance the water, adjusting alkalinity first, pH second, and calcium hardness third.
9. Brush and vacuum the pool
Brush the pool to help prevent algae problems later and to ensure the most effective pool shock. Vacuum the pool to remove sediment from the bottom of the pool.
10. Surprise the pool
Kill algae spores and bacteria, and get your water sparkling clean with shock treatment for swimming pools. We recommend double flushing the pool at the time of opening. Run the filter for at least 24 hours before using it.
Now your pool is ready to swim!
Contact Mystic Pool & Spa
If you need help with any or all of these steps to open your pool, please contact us at 732-656-0200.
