Unquestionably, as temperatures get higher, the more everyone looks forward to getting a good swim. So, you can imagine how pool owners look forward to opening their pool after winter. Nonetheless, opening your pool after winter is not that fascinating. In fact, it can be daunting. I mean, at this point, the cover is often covered with dirt and debris. And removing it can be a struggle. Also, you have to conduct a few procedures to make sure the pool is in good condition before you start using it again.

Step by step process of opening your pool

Clean the pool cover

First, you have to get rid of all the dirt staring at you from the cover. So, grab a suitable broom and gently brush off all debris and dirt on the surface of the cover. Once you do this, dry the cover using a pool cover pump. Nonetheless, not that pool cover pumps are often not effective. Thus, if you can, invest in a good one that works fast and efficiently.

Uncover the pool

The next step would be removing the cover from the pool. Doing this would require a lot of effort. So, you might consider asking for help. Once you remove the cover from the pool, lay it somewhere safe on flat grounds. Take advantage of this stage and evaluate the condition of the cover. If it is worn out, ensure you buy another one before the start of the next winter. Use a soft brush and pool cover cleaner to wash the pool cover. Avoid using harsh chemicals to wash the pool cover. Otherwise, you risk damaging it.

Pool skimming

It’s now time to focus on the pool. Use your skimmer to get rid of all floating debris and dirt on the pool’s surface. Doing this helps you prevent clogging in your filter. Ensure you eliminate all visible dirt and debris from the pool.

Get rid of antifreeze equipment

Opening your pool also entails removing the plugs and compensator. If you replace the pool pipes with winter-friendly equipment to prevent freezing, install the initial equipment. Fix the standard pools and ensure that they are functioning properly.

Reinstall pool fixtures

Remember the fixtures you removed during winter? Some may include diving boards, handrails, pool ladders, and slides. Ensure you put them back to their original position. However, note that they should be clean before you put them back in the pool. It will help if you lubricate these pool fixtures at this stage. This way, they will offer better functionality.

Restore the pool waterline

During winter, our experts recommend lowering the water levels. So, opening your pool entails filling the pool to the correct water levels. Use a hose filter to fill water back into the pool. A hose filer will help prevent transferring metal particles to the pool. Metal contaminates the pool and can lead to pool discoloration.

Turn on your pool filter and pump

After you fill water back into the pool, switch on the pool pump and filter. Filtering the pool helps you safeguard the pool against certain microorganisms and bacteria. Consequently, you will have a safe space to swim and relax during the summer.

Lower the amount of metal particles in the pool

Leaving your pool unused for a long time undoubtedly increases the number of metal particles in the pool. Besides, if you refilled the pool without a hose pump, you probably dipped in some metal particles. Solving this issue requires you to use an appropriate metal sequestrant to reduce the pool’s metal level.

Balancing water chemistry

The next step to opening your pool would be to balance the water chemistry. Use a water test strip to check the pH levels of the water. Then, use the right chemicals to balance water chemistry. If the pool is too alkaline, use muriatic acid to make the pH levels neutral. Water chemistry plays a huge role in safeguarding the pool against rust and algae.

Clean the pool

When opening your pool, use a suitable brush and cleaner to scrub the surfaces of the pool. Doing this, can help you get rid of algae in its early stages. Alternatively, use a vacuum to get rid of all dirt and debris in the pool. Although this step is not compulsory, it makes the next step easier

Pool shocking

Shocking works best when you have a clean pool. Therefore, after cleaning the pool, pour in excess chlorine levels to give the pool extra disinfection. Remember, it’s been a while since you used the pool. So, shocking would help you kill all bacteria and algae. Give the pool about two to three days to recover from shocking. Once you finish shocking the pool, turn on your filter and pool pump.

Need help opening your pool?

Before using your pool after winter, you’ll have to use a certain process to open your pool. Fortunately, this process is not as complex as many people think.

You can get in touch with professionals at Crystal Blue Aquatics today for help about opening your pool.