You should always call a professional to perform opening procedures, but just in case you’re a handy DIY’er, here are some tips on in ground pool opening. Even though it’s winter, we feel it’s never too early to look ahead towards spring and summer to consider how you will best open your pool!
1.Get the Debris From Your Pool Cover Off
Using a soft broom, remove any dead leaves or other large pieces of debris off the winter cover. Next, use the pool cover pump to remove the standing water.
2.Remove, Clean and Store the Pool Cover
Asking a friend to help, lift and fold the cover back and forth, like an accordion. Unfold it on flat ground. Check on the condition of the cover as you do this to see if there are any rips. Gently scrub it with pool cover cleaner and a soft broom.
Rinse away the cleaner and then dry it all off with a towel or even a leaf blower. Fold it back up, storing it inside a storage bag or container. Never put the cover on the floor of your shed or garage, as critters like mice can nest in there and make holes.
3.Skim the Pool
Snag any debris that could clog your filtration system when it’s turned on, using the skimmer.
4.Take 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’s the time to re-install your pool ladder, diving board, stair rails, slide, and other accessories. Now is a good time to lubricate bolts and grease diving board hinges.
6.Add Water
Add water using a hose and hose filter to get the water up to a normal level.
7.Set up the Filter and Pump
Install the drain plugs in your pump and filter, lubricate any O-rings for protection, open the return side valves, flip the circuit breaker, and turn on the pump. The pump has been primed once water starts to flow through. Wash and replace the filter, then switch the multiport valve to the filter setting.
8.Balance the Water
Using test strips you bought at the store or by bringing a water sample to your local pool supply store, obtain a baseline of 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 ensure that the pool shock is more effective. Vacuum the pool to remove sediment from the pool floor.
10.Shock the Pool
Kill off algae spores and bacteria, and get your water sparkling clean, using pool shock. We recommend double shocking the pool at the time of opening. Run the filter for at least 24 hours before using.
Now your pool is ready for swimming!
