The birds are chirping, flowers are blooming, and temperatures are rising. Summer is right around the corner! For pool owners, warmer weather means it’s almost time to transform your backyard oasis from a winter wasteland into a sparkling summer swim spot. But opening a pool after months of non-use takes some preparation. Before you jump into that cool, refreshing water, be sure to follow these key tips to get your pool ready for the season. Taking the proper steps now will ensure your pool is safe, clean, and operating optimally when it comes time to enjoy those long sunny days poolside.
Inspect and Clean the Pool Cover
The first step is thoroughly inspecting and cleaning your winter pool cover. Check for debris accumulation on top of the cover, which can cause excess strain and lead to tears. Use a cover pump to remove any standing water to lighten the load. Once drained, carefully remove sticks, leaves, acorns, and other debris. When clear, lay out the cover on a flat surface like your deck or driveway and spray it off with a hose. This removes built-up dirt or grime, so it’s fresh for storage. Allow it to dry completely before folding it up neatly for seasonal storage.
Prep Accessories and Safety Features
Get your pool accessories and safety equipment ready for the season. Install ladders, diving boards, slides, or any other accessories that were removed for winter. Inspect railings, fences, gates, and lock systems around the pool perimeter and make any necessary repairs. Test all underwater lighting to make sure lights, wiring, and bulbs are functioning for evening swims. Consider touching up flaking paint on pool walls or decking and sprucing up patio furniture for summer entertaining.
Check the Pool’s Water Level
After removing the cover, you may see that the water level is lower than when you closed the pool for winter. Some water is lost through evaporation, so it’s crucial to add fresh water to refill the pool before adding any new chemicals. Introducing chemicals before balancing the proper level of water can add headaches and require double the work to rebalance chlorine later.
Get the Pool Pump and Filtration System Ready
Now it’s time to wake up your pool’s filtration system from its long winter rest. Reattach and reinstall the pool pump, drain covers, filters, and any other part of the system that was removed for winterisation. Make sure the pump is primed according to the manufacturer’s directions. With everything hooked up properly, turn on the pump and let it run continuously for 24 hours. This initial long run will help circulate the water to keep off the debris and prevent algae growth in your swimming
Balance Chemistry and Maintain Filtration
After refilling the pool with water, test and balance your water chemistry using a kit that measures pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and sanitiser levels like chlorine. Add any necessary salt using a salt water chlorinator to turn salt into natural chlorine, as long as your pump is running. Maintain proper chlorine levels all season to keep the water sanitised and inviting for swimmers.
Get Ready for Relaxation
Once the pool is opened and operational, add those finishing touches to optimise summer fun. Stock up on games like water basketball and volleyball to keep everyone entertained. Shop for new floats and pool toys for the kids to enjoy. Update lighting features with LED bulbs in bright colours for a modern look during evening swims. Accent the area with path lighting around trees and structures for added ambience. Place new cushions on poolside furniture and check patio umbrellas so lounging areas are ready for relaxation.
Following these key steps, your pool will be refreshed, sanitised, and ready for summer memories with family and friends. Be sure to stay on top of regular maintenance for clear, clean water all season.
