If you’re a pool owner, you’ve probably been dreaming about warmer weather, having fun in the sun, and cooling off in your refreshing in-ground pool. However, your pool isn’t quite ready for enjoyment, and there are a few maintenance steps to follow. We’ve put together a guide to help you open your pool efficiently and correctly in the spring so you can begin to enjoy your backyard escape!
Brushing and Vacuuming
Before you begin working on your pool, the first thing to do is clear away any leaves, excess water, and dirt from the pool cover to prevent it from falling into your pool. Carefully remove your pool cover and allow it to dry completely to prevent mold or mildew growth. Now that your cover is off, you can inspect your pool. You will want to begin by brushing away any algae and buildup. Skim the surface of the water to pick up twigs and other debris. Finally, vacuum your pool’s walls and floor to remove any excess dirt. Be sure to clear the area around your pool as well. This will help keep debris from blowing into your pool and enhance the appearance of your backyard.
Inspect Pump & Filter
If you correctly winterized your pool, you will need to inspect and test your pool’s pump and filter. Be sure to reinstall any drain plugs, reconnect any disconnected items, and reinstall any ladders or handrails that you removed at the end of last summer. Next, check your pump, drains, filter, skimmers, and heater for any damage that may have occurred during the colder months. Remove any dirt or buildup that has accumulated and ensure that you clean or replace your filter cartridge as needed. Let your pump and filter run for 12 to 24 hours to be sure everything is working correctly.
Check Water Balance & Shock
To check the state of the pool water, use a test kit to determine the amount of each chemical that needs to be added to balance the water. We recommend a pH range of 7.4 – 7.6 and a total alkalinity of 80–120 ppm. One of the most critical steps when you are opening your pool is to shock it. Shocking the pool involves adding a concentrated dose of chlorine or non-chlorine shock treatment to your pool, making the water safe to swim in and eliminating any remaining bacteria and algae.
Contact the Professionals
Maintaining a pool is a significant amount of work, involving various components, understanding which chemicals to use and their appropriate dosages, and even physical labor. If you’re looking forward to a backyard pool but don’t want to deal with the upkeep and maintenance, we can help! Carolina Pools and Maintenance can help you prepare your pool correctly, allowing you to focus on relaxing in the sun. You can trust that the Carolina Pools and Maintenance team of professionals will ensure that your pool is functioning correctly, safe to use, and in pristine condition. Ready to bring your backyard dreams to life? Contact us today for a free quote!